Washington’s winter tradition of razor clam digging continues this week, with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) opening evening digs at Long Beach through next Wednesday. The digs, announced by coastal shellfish biologist Bryce Blumenthal, represent the final opportunity to collect razor clams before Super Bowl weekend.
“These digs will be the last opportunity to get razor clams for upcoming Super Bowl festivities,” Blumenthal said, noting that recent tides have produced favorable conditions for diggers. “Hopefully the weather will be ideal, like it was during the past low-tide series, and we’ll have another productive week of winter digging.”
Razor clam digging is both a longstanding local pastime and an economic bright spot for coastal communities like Long Beach, which rely on tourism from nearby counties, including Cowlitz and Clark. WDFW opens coastal beaches periodically throughout the year based on testing for marine toxins and assessments of clam populations. All diggers age 15 or older must have a valid shellfish or combination license, and regulations, including daily limits, are strictly enforced.
With mild weather expected and an extended evening tide series, this week’s digs are expected to draw thousands of visitors. For many, the timing is ideal—just ahead of one of winter’s biggest social events, when clam chowder and fried razor clams often feature on the game-day menu.
For those planning to participate, diggers are encouraged to check the latest tide schedules, prepare for cold and wet conditions, and review all WDFW guidelines for safe and sustainable harvesting.
More information on open beaches, tides, and licensing is available at WDFW’s official razor clam page.
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