Washington Razor Clam Season Will Start in October
The state has scheduled 40 tentative digging dates running from October 9 through December 27, 2026.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Hunting
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The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has announced 40 tentative razor clam digging dates for the 2026 season. The season will commence on October 9, 2026, and conclude on December 27, 2026, pending final marine toxin testing.
Why it matters
The schedule balances recreational access with population health after summer assessments revealed significant decreases on some beaches. Kalaloch beach will remain closed for the entire season due to low harvestable clam numbers.
Diggers must adhere to a daily limit of 15 razor clams per person, with each person required to store their own harvest in a separate container. Opening a beach requires two test samples collected seven to 10 days apart.
The players
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
This state agency is responsible for managing fish, wildlife, and their habitats across Washington.
Department of Health
This agency oversees public safety and provides the required testing to clear beaches for harvesting.
The details
While Long Beach and Twin Harbors maintain stable populations, officials reported significant declines at Copalis and Mocrocks. Diggers are required to keep the first 15 clams they harvest regardless of size to protect the remaining stock.
Timeline
October 9, 2026 is the earliest start date for the razor clam season.
December 27, 2026 is the final scheduled date for the season.
Culture Shift
Recreational clamming reflects a long-standing Pacific Northwest tradition that is increasingly managed through rigorous, data-driven sustainability efforts. The decision to close specific beaches highlights a societal move toward prioritizing ecosystem health over unrestricted harvest access.
Diggers should prepare for stricter compliance, as everyone must now store their 15-clam limit in their own dedicated container. Travelers should verify the status of specific beaches before visiting, as individual locations may be subject to last-minute closures based on toxin levels.
The takeaway
Harvesters should keep the first 15 clams they dig to ensure the daily limit is managed properly. Always check the official agency status for toxin levels approximately one week before any planned trip to the coast.
Further reading
For more information on seasonal harvesting guidelines, visit the Hunting section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by GoSkagit.
Live Poll
Do you support restricted seasonal harvesting access to local beaches to protect clam populations?
