Razor clamming is one of the most beloved coastal traditions in Washington State — and Ocean Shores is ground zero for it. The wide, flat beach is one of the most productive razor clam beaches on the Pacific coast, drawing thousands of diggers each season. Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been digging for years, this guide covers everything you need to know about razor clamming in Ocean Shores.
What Are Razor Clams?
Pacific razor clams (Siliqua patula) are a large, fast-burrowing bivalve found along the Washington coast. They’re named for the sharp edges of their oblong shells — and for good reason: handle them carefully when digging. Razor clams grow up to 6 inches long and are prized for their sweet, meaty flavor. They’re excellent breaded and pan-fried, in chowder, or steamed.
When Can You Dig Razor Clams in Ocean Shores?
Razor clam seasons in Washington are managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and are tied to evening and morning low tides. Seasons typically occur in fall, winter, and spring — summer low tides occur during the day and aren’t used for clamming. The WDFW tests beaches regularly for biotoxins (domoic acid and PSP) and will close a beach if levels are elevated, regardless of tide conditions.
Always check the WDFW razor clam website before heading out. Seasons are announced a few weeks in advance and can be modified or cancelled based on biotoxin levels. Never dig on a closed beach.
Licenses and Limits
- License required: All diggers 15 and older need a valid Washington fishing/shellfish license with a razor clam endorsement. Purchase online at fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov or at local sporting goods stores.
- Daily limit: 15 razor clams per person, per day
- All clams count: The first 15 clams you dig — regardless of size or condition — count toward your limit. You cannot discard a clam and replace it.
- Possession limit: Up to two daily limits (30 clams) if you dig on consecutive days
What Equipment Do You Need?
Razor clamming requires minimal gear — one of the reasons it’s so popular with families and first-timers.
The Clam Gun (Tube)
A clam gun is a cylindrical tube — usually 4–6 inches in diameter — that you push into the sand over the clam’s “show” (the dimple or keyhole mark it leaves on the surface). You cover the air hole at the top with your thumb to create suction, then pull the tube out with a core of sand containing the clam. This is the most common method for beginners and is very effective.
The Clam Shovel
Experienced diggers often prefer a clam shovel — a long-handled, narrow spade designed for digging quickly on the beach. You dig alongside the clam (not on top of it) to avoid cutting the shell. The shovel method is faster and works well in different sand conditions, but takes practice to master.
Other Gear to Bring
- Mesh bag or bucket — for carrying your clams (mesh lets sand drain)
- Headlamp or flashlight — most digs happen at evening low tide after dark
- Rain gear and rubber boots — you’ll be standing in surf and wet sand
- Waterproof gloves — optional but helpful; razor clam shells are sharp
- Cooler with ice — keep your clams cold after the dig
How to Find and Dig Razor Clams
Step 1: Find the Show
Walk the wet sand in the swash zone (where waves wash up) and look for “shows” — small dimples, holes, or keyhole-shaped marks that indicate a clam below. Gently stomp or tap the sand and watch for shows to appear as the vibration causes clams to squirt. Shows are easiest to see in the wet sand left by a receding wave.
Step 2: Dig Fast
Razor clams can burrow up to an inch per second — they’re remarkably fast. Once you spot a show, act immediately. With a clam gun, center the tube over the show and push straight down while twisting. With a shovel, place it 2–3 inches toward the ocean side of the show and dig quickly at an angle toward the clam.
Step 3: Extract the Clam
With the gun: cover the air hole with your thumb, pull up firmly, and release your thumb to drop the sand core. Your clam should be visible in the core. With a shovel: reach into the hole and feel for the clam — they’re usually 6–12 inches down. Handle the shell carefully to avoid cuts.
Step 4: Fill Your Holes
Washington regulations require you to fill your holes after digging. This protects other beachgoers and is simply good beach etiquette. Use your foot or shovel to push sand back into the hole before moving on.
What to Do With Your Clams
Razor clams need to be cleaned before cooking — a simple process once you’ve done it a couple of times. The WDFW website has excellent cleaning tutorials with photos. Once cleaned, razor clams are excellent:
- Pan-fried — breaded in seasoned flour or panko and cooked in butter; the classic preparation
- Chowder — chopped and added to a creamy potato chowder
- Steamed — simple and delicious with melted butter and lemon
- Fritters — chopped clam meat in a savory batter, pan-fried until golden
Plan Your Clamming Trip to Ocean Shores
Razor clamming is best enjoyed as part of a full Ocean Shores getaway. Stay beachside, dig at the evening low tide, and cook your catch for dinner — it doesn’t get more quintessentially Pacific Northwest than that. Browse our lodging directory to find a great base for your clamming trip, and check out the activities page for more things to do during your stay.
