A clams and oysters how-to on digging for your own dinner

By James Robinson
Posted 4/24/24

 

 

If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to harvest clams and oysters safely and sustainably, then join members of the Jefferson Marine Resources Committee and state fish and …

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A clams and oysters how-to on digging for your own dinner

Posted

 

 

If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to harvest clams and oysters safely and sustainably, then join members of the Jefferson Marine Resources Committee and state fish and wildlife biologists at the annual ‘Digging for Dinner’ event in Quilcene from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday April 27.

The event is free, but attendees must sign up in advance online.

The event starts promptly at 12 p.m., although participants are asked to arrive by 11: 30 to find parking, sign forms, and gather gear for digging. The event ends at 4 p.m. and everyone should be off the beach no later than 4: 30 p.m. to avoid getting stranded by the incoming tide. This event includes instruction and demonstrations from WA Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) shellfish biologists and time to harvest clams and oysters with instructors available to answer questions. Attendees will learn about different kinds of clams and where to find them, harvesting regulations, safety guidelines, and more.

 

What to bring

Each person harvesting shellfish will need a WDFW shellfish license. They can be purchased online at https://www.fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov or local retail outlets: Port Ludlow Marina, Henery Hardware in Port Townsend, Olympic Equipment Rentals in Port Hadlock, Brinnon General Store, or The Fishin’ Hole/fuel dock at Boat Haven.

 

Equipment needed

Event organizers recommend the following equipment: quart size Ziplock bags, hand trowel, gloves, hand cultivator or garden “bow” rake, or a small shovel, although a shovel digs a bigger hole than needed for harvesting clams. A hat and sunscreen are always recommended in addition to layers. A three- to five-gallon bucket with a lid makes a good seat for shucking oysters and carrying tools and shellfish.

Directions to Quilcene Bay WDFW Tidelands:

From the north, follow either Highway 101 or Center Road to Quilcene. (From the south, follow Hwy 101 to Quilcene.) Turn east onto Linger Longer Road and follow it about one mile to the small WDFW Tidelands parking area. Please carpool. Overflow parking is available at the Quilcene Yacht Club, half a mile down the road.

You can register online at: https://tinyurl.com/mutzjvam