Razor clam season set to begin on Oct. 16 -- if tests show the clams are safe to eat

• Published September 29, 2008

Most diggers will get their first razor clams of the fall season with a lantern or flashlight shining nearby.

The first razor clam dig of the fall will start on Oct. 16 -- if tests show that the clams are safe to eat.

Three evening digs are scheduled for Twin Harbors, Copalis and Mocrocks from Oct. 16 through 18, according to the state Department of Fish and Wildlife. Long Beach will open to clammers on Oct. 17 and 18.

Clammers can dig between noon and midnight, but the best clamming starts about an hour before low tide. The low tides for all three evenings come after sunset.

Each clammer is limited to the first 15 razor clams dug. Clammers age 15 or older must have a license. Any 2008 annual shellfish/seaweed license or combination fishing license is still valid. Another option is a razor-clam only license available in annual or three-day only versions. For more information, visit fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov. Clam diggers are not required to display their licenses on outer clothing. Low tides for the first dig are: 8:30 p.m. on Oct. 16. 9:17 p.m. on Oct. 17 10:08 p.m. on Oct. 18. Clammers should bring flashlights or lanterns to these evening digs.