Clamming is a popular recreational activity in Washington State, with miles of coastline offering a variety of clam species to dig for. However, before you head out with your clam shovel, it’s important to understand the licensing requirements. In this article, we’ll explore whether you need a license to go clamming in Washington and provide you with the necessary information to ensure you’re fishing legally.
Licensing Requirements for Clamming in Washington
According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), anyone 15 years of age or older needs a fishing license to harvest clams in Washington waters. This includes both residents and non-residents. The license requirement applies to all species of clams, including razor clams, butter clams, littleneck clams, and more.
There are several types of licenses available for clamming in Washington:
Combination license: Allows you to fish in freshwater and saltwater, and harvest shellfish (including razor clams) and seaweed.
Shellfish/Seaweed license: Allows you to harvest razor clams, red rock crab, coastal Dungeness crab (but not Puget Sound Dungeness crab), goose barnacles, mussels, octopus, oysters, scallops, sea cucumbers, sea urchins, shrimp, softshell and hardshell clams, squid, and seaweed.
Razor Clam license: This license (available as an annual or three-day temporary license) allows you to harvest razor clams. You do not need this license if you already have a shellfish/seaweed or combination license.
Anglers 14 years and younger do not need a fishing license, though catch record cards are still required for certain species.
Purchasing a Clamming License in Washington
You can purchase a clamming license in several ways:
Online: Visit the WDFW’s online licensing system to purchase your license. If you buy online, it may take up to 10 days to receive your license in the mail. If your WILD ID has an email address associated with it, you will be emailed a temporary license to use for that 10-day period.
Phone: Contact WDFW by phone at 360-902-2464 to purchase your license. The same 10-day mailing period applies.
License dealers: Visit one of the hundreds of license dealers around the state to purchase your license in person. This allows you to start clamming immediately.
Federal and state law require everyone 15 and older to provide their social security number before purchasing a license, whether buying in person, online, or by phone.
Clamming Regulations and Restrictions in Washington
In addition to having a valid license, there are several regulations and restrictions to keep in mind when clamming in Washington:
Catch record cards: You must have a catch record card in your possession when fishing for certain species, such as razor clams. Everyone, including those younger than 15, must carry a catch record card when fishing.
Harvest methods: Clams must be harvested by hand or with hand-operated instruments. The use of shovels, forks, and other tools is generally allowed, but check the specific regulations for the area you plan to clam.
Daily limits: There are daily limits on the number of clams you can harvest. These limits vary by species and location, so be sure to check the regulations for the area you plan to clam.
Closed areas: Some areas may be closed to clamming due to health advisories, conservation efforts, or other reasons. Always check for any closures before heading out.
It’s important to note that the regulations and restrictions for clamming can change from year to year, so be sure to check the current regulations before heading out.
Clamming Licenses in Other States
While Washington requires a license for recreational clamming, other states may have different requirements. For example, in Oregon, everyone 12 years and older needs a license to harvest shellfish. The license can be for a day or a full year and can be purchased online, from an ODFW license agent, or at an ODFW office that sells licenses.
In British Columbia, Canada, a commercial clam license is required to harvest clams commercially, but recreational clamming does not require a license.
Before planning a clamming trip in another state or country, be sure to research the specific licensing requirements and regulations for that area.
Conclusion
In summary, yes, you need a license to go clamming in Washington State if you are 15 years of age or older. The type of license you need depends on the species of clams you plan to harvest and whether you also plan to fish or harvest other shellfish. Be sure to purchase your license before heading out and familiarize yourself with the current regulations and restrictions for the area you plan to clam. By following the rules and regulations, you can enjoy a fun and rewarding clamming experience in Washington’s beautiful coastal waters.