From Washington To You

From Washington to you

Pacific Razor Clams

Copalis Beach · Grays Harbor County · state management since 1929

WDFW has managed Washington’s coastal razor-clam digs since 1929, counting every beach before anyone is allowed to shovel.

WDFW says Washington has actively managed the coastal recreational razor-clam fishery since 1929. Pacific razor clams live mainly on intertidal ocean beaches from about a +3-foot tide to a −2-foot tide. The state divides harvest into five management beaches: Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks, and Kalaloch.

Each summer, biologists estimate clams under 3 inches (pre-recruits) and 3 inches or longer (recruits). A total allowable catch then uses a 30 to 40 percent harvest rate on recruit-sized clams, except at Kalaloch, where the rate is fixed at 25.4 percent. North of Grays Harbor, WDFW co-manages Copalis, Mocrocks, and Kalaloch with coastal tribes, including the Quinault Indian Nation, and splits that catch 50/50. No beach opens until the Department of Health clears marine toxin tests, especially for domoic acid.

This pin is Copalis Beach, the reach from the north jetty of Grays Harbor to the Copalis River. The sources below are Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and USGS pages.

  • Wildlife & Ecology
  • Science / Strange Washington

Sources (2)

Last reviewed: September 21, 2026

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