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2026 Mocrocks Razor Clam Digging Schedule & Guide

Current Mocrocks Beach opening information, tides, permits, access and where to stay near Pacific Beach, Washington.

🟢 SEASON UPDATE:

Updated October 19, 2026: WDFW postponed the tentative razor-clam openings originally scheduled for October 9–14 until further notice because domoic-acid test results raised safety concerns. Check WDFW’s current razor-clam update before planning a trip.

2026 Season Timeline:

  • Spring 2026: The spring digging season concluded in May.
  • Summer: Beaches were closed to razor-clam harvesting while clam populations spawned and grew.
  • Fall and Winter: The season is postponed until further notice. Any future openings depend on test results and final approval. Check WDFW for updates.

License Requirement: Every digger age 15 or older must carry a valid Washington fishing or shellfish license. Annual and short-term license options are available.

Always verify the approved beach, date, and digging hours directly with WDFW before traveling.

A person using a PVC clam gun to dig for razor clams on the shoreline of Mocrocks Beach.

The Essentials: Where, When, and How

Planning Your Razor Clamming Trip to Mocrocks Beach

Razor clamming is a classic Washington Coast experience, but success depends on choosing an approved opening and arriving at the right stage of the tide.

  • Approved Openings: Dig only on the beach, date and during the hours officially approved by WDFW. Tentative dates can change following marine-toxin testing.
  • Tide Timing: Arrive approximately two hours before the listed low tide. Follow the receding water and watch for fresh clam shows as more sand becomes exposed.
  • Official Tide Tables: Check the NOAA tide predictions when planning your trip.
  • Beach Access: Analyde Gap provides convenient access to Mocrocks Beach and is especially close to The Razor Clam and Seagulls Beach House.
  • Seabrook Access: Guests at Slack Tide and A Perfect Wave are only a short drive from Mocrocks Beach.

📍 INTERACTIVE BEACH ACCESS & PROPERTY MAP

📍 HOW TO USE THIS MAP:

Note: Click any pin on the map above for specific “host-recommended” directions!

Perfect For

Razor Clamming Guide - The Prep

Icon for Washington State razor clamming license requirements

The License

Every digger age 15 or older must carry a valid Washington fishing or shellfish license. Annual and short-term options are available through WDFW and authorized retailers.
Essential razor clamming equipment including a stainless steel clam gun, mesh net bag, and a waterproof headlamp.

The Gear

Bring a clam gun or specialized shovel, a separate container for each digger’s catch, gloves and a headlamp for evening openings. Labeling your equipment can make it easier to identify after dark.
Icon of coastal rain gear and rubber boots for Washington razor clamming

The Clothing

Wear waterproof boots or waders and more warm layers than you expect to need. Coastal wind and rain can make an evening dig feel considerably colder than the forecast suggests.
Razor clamming Mocrocks beach

How to Find Razor Clams

Identifying the dimples, donuts, and keyholes

Razor clams reveal their location through small marks in the sand known as “shows.” Walk slowly across freshly exposed sand and look for one of these common shapes:

  • The Dimple: A small, shallow indentation approximately the size of a coin.
  • The Donut: A small opening surrounded by a raised ring of sand.
  • The Keyhole: An elongated or hourglass-shaped opening, often found in slightly firmer sand.

If shows are difficult to spot, gently stomp or tap the sand nearby. The vibration can cause a clam to move and reveal a fresh mark.

Always remain aware of the incoming surf while concentrating on the sand.

The Clamming Playbook

The Dig

Position your clam gun or shovel over a fresh show and dig carefully. Every clam dug counts toward your limit, regardless of its size or condition.

The Catch

Keep each person’s clams in a separate container and retain the first 15 clams dug. Do not combine catches or exchange clams between diggers.

The Feast

Keep the catch cool, clean the clams promptly and follow safe seafood-handling practices. Razor clams can be fried, baked, added to chowder or prepared using your favorite coastal recipe.

Beach Safety & Local Rules

  • Never Turn Your Back on the Ocean: Sneaker waves can travel much farther up the beach than expected.
  • Keep the First 15: Each digger must retain the first 15 razor clams dug, regardless of size or condition.
  • Separate Every Catch: Each person must carry their clams in an individual container.
  • Fill Your Holes: Open holes create hazards for other visitors and dogs. Refill them before moving on.
  • Stay Within Approved Hours: Dig only on the approved beach and during the times established by WDFW.
  • Prepare for Darkness: For evening digs, carry a reliable headlamp and use a light or visible marker to help locate your vehicle.
  • Watch Dogs and Children Closely: Keep them away from breaking surf, digging equipment and open holes.

Review the current official WDFW razor-clam rules →