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Experts on Seattle Refined demonstrate clam-digging basics and local season limits
Summary
A Seattle Refined segment with a Westport resident demonstrated techniques, gear and legal limits for razor-clam digging on the Washington coast and noted the season timing.
Garde Swanson, host of Seattle Refined, joined Westport native and clam-digging instructor Lisa Ben for a how-to demonstration of coastal razor-clam digging during the show’s Grays Harbor County segment.
Lisa Ben explained the basic technique and gear and gave practical tips for beginners, including a legal daily limit and seasonal timing. When asked how many clams a person can legally take, Ben said “15.” She described use of a clam gun and the angle technique: “You go a slight angle, not a lot, and you just push down. And then when you get ready to bring it up, there's a hole here, and you put your finger over the hole, and it makes a vacuum,” Ben said, describing the motion that lifts sand and reveals clams.
The program noted equipment available at local suppliers such as England Marine Supply and suggested hip waders or boots, a clam net for storage, and either a clam gun or shovel depending on preference. The segment also stated that the coastal razor-clam season in Washington “is generally from October through May.” The show presented the guidance as practical advice for recreational diggers; it did not provide a regulatory citation or permit guidance beyond the stated limit and season.
The demonstration was informational and did not involve any regulatory action. Viewers seeking official harvesting rules should consult state fishery authorities before digging.
