Washington Fishing Reports
Washington Fishing Reports
Fishing on the Edmonds Pier
Fishing on the Edmonds Pier Widely considered the most heavily used public fishing pier in Puget Sound, Edmonds Pier offers something genuinely rare: a shot at salmon 365 days a year, right in the heart of a charming waterfront town. Between the salmon, lingcod, squid, and crab all within reach of the same L-shaped pier, it's easy to see why locals keep coming back. Add in stunning views of the Olympic Peninsula, passing ferries, and the occasional pod of orcas cruising past, and it's clear why this pier has earned its reputation as one of the busiest and most beloved fishing spots in the entire Sound. Where is Edmonds Pier? Edmonds Pier is located next to the Olympic Beach Visitor Station in downtown Edmonds, right beside the Edmonds Marina and within view of the Edmonds-Kingston ferry terminal. The L-shaped pier, rebuilt a few years ago as part of a $1.6 million renovation, extends out along a rock jetty into Puget Sound, offering views of the Olympic Peninsula, passing ferries, and frequently, orcas, seals, and sea lions. Edmonds itself is a walkable, small-town waterfront community with plenty of restaurants and shops just steps from the water, giving a trip to the pier an easy, relaxed feel beyond just the fishing. From downtown Seattle, Edmonds is roughly 30 minutes north, generally via I-5 and Highway 104, making it a straightforward day trip for city-based anglers. The pier sits right next to a visitor center, restrooms, and ample parking, and it's open to the public 24 hours a day, year-round, making it one of the more convenient and accessible fishing spots in the entire Puget Sound region. Edmonds Pier Map What You Can Catch at Edmonds Pier Edmonds Pier offers a genuinely wide variety of species. Salmon fishing here includes Chinook, coho, pink, and chum, with anglers targeting them near the pylons using jigs or weighted lures. Lingcod, prized as much for their fight as their taste, are a favorite target each spring, alongside rockfish, cabezon, greenling, flounder, sculpin, and other bottomfish. Squid jigging is popular here as well, particularly at night when the pier lights draw them in close. Crabbing rounds out the pier's appeal, with Dungeness, red rock, and Tanner crab all available to anglers dropping baited pots off the pier. Uniquely among Puget Sound's public piers, Edmonds is open to salmon fishing year-round, though a two-fish bag limit applies to salmon caught here, and current WDFW rules should always be checked before keeping any catch given how often regulations can shift. Edmonds Pier Fishing Seasons Salmon: Unlike most Puget Sound fisheries, salmon fishing at Edmonds Pier is open year-round, a fact that surprises many boat anglers unfamiliar with the pier's special status. King salmon fishing typically builds through July and peaks in the first week of August (but resident Chinook/King are available year round), with coho, pink, and chum providing additional opportunities later in the season. Cast metal jigs like a Puget Pounder, Crippled Herring or Buzz Bomb to catch salmon from this pier. Squid: Squid jigging is best in the cooler months, typically fall and winter, when squid move into Puget Sound to spawn and gather around the lit pier after dark, though some summer evenings can also produce a good squid bite. Carry a variety of squid jigs with you in several different sizes and colors. Lingcod: Lingcod season typically opens in early May and runs into mid-June, drawing dedicated anglers to fish near the pylons and rocky jetty where these toothy bottom dwellers like to hold. They can grow up to four feet long, and while their sharp teeth and prehistoric look make them intimidating to handle, they're prized as much for their fight as for their taste, making lingcod season one of the most anticipated stretches of the year at the pier. Fishing with live pile perch or flounder is a good bet, as is soft plastics like P-Line Twin Tails on a lead jighead or Electric Eels. Crab: Crabbing is popular at Edmonds Pier during Marine Area 9's open season, though there's no crabbing allowed on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, which are set aside specifically for anglers fishing with a rod. Checking current WDFW season dates and catch record card requirements before dropping a pot is essential. Drop down your crab ring, or cast out a crab snare with our Okuma Crab Snare Spinning Combo. Flounder: Flounder and other bottomfish are available at Edmonds Pier much of the year, offering a reliable option for anglers looking for something to target between salmon runs, though action can slow somewhat during the coldest winter months. Use a Berkley Gulp! 2” Sand Worm on a sliding egg sinker rig. Edmonds Pier is one of the best public fishing access points in Puget Sound with plenty of action year round! Fishing on Edmonds Pier Many salmon anglers here have success with a 2-ounce lure and a single barbless hook, particularly during the peak king salmon push in late July and early August. Crabbing seasons are posted on WDFW Crab seasons and areas page. For crabbing, dropping a pot or ring baited with salmon carcass, a turkey leg, or chicken and letting it sit for a few hours before pulling it up is the standard approach, though remember crabbing isn't permitted on Tuesdays or Wednesdays during the official crab season. Because Edmonds Pier is so heavily used, arriving early for a good spot near the pylons or the end of the jetty is worth the effort, especially during peak salmon season. A valid Washington fishing or shellfishing license is required depending on what you're targeting, and both are easy to purchase online before your trip. With its rare year-round salmon season, genuine species variety, and easy access from Seattle, Edmonds Pier remains one of the best all-around fishing destinations in Puget Sound. Suggested Setup: Okuma Rockaway Beach & Pier Salmon Spinning Combo
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Fishing on the Mukilteo Pier
Fishing on the Mukilteo Pier Rebuilt as part of the new Mukilteo ferry terminal project, this modern fishing pier gives Snohomish County anglers a genuine public access point on Possession Sound. Between salmon, flounder, and some of the most popular crabbing in the area, Mukilteo Pier has quickly become a go-to spot for locals looking to fish without a boat. With great views of Possession Sound, nearby pubs, and a steady stream of ferries coming and going in the background, it offers a lively but laid-back waterfront setting that makes for a great backdrop for a fishing trip. Where is Mukilteo Pier? Mukilteo Pier sits at 910 Front Street in Mukilteo, right next to the Mukilteo-Clinton ferry terminal on Possession Sound, part of WDFW's Marine Area 8-2. The pier replaced an older Port of Everett fishing dock and was rebuilt alongside the new ferry terminal, with some materials from the original structure reused in its construction. The surrounding waterfront has a classic small-town ferry-dock feel, with lighthouse views, pubs, and restaurants nearby, and the pier itself is open to the public from dawn to dusk for fishing, crabbing, and sightseeing. From downtown Seattle, Mukilteo is roughly 30 to 40 minutes north via I-5 and Highway 526, making it a comparable drive to Edmonds, just a bit further along the same stretch of coastline. Parking near the pier can be tight, since the ferry employee lot is off-limits to the public and gets patrolled closely, so it's worth planning to park in one of the designated public areas a short walk away, especially on busy weekends. Mukilteo Pier Map What You Can Catch at Mukilteo Pier Mukilteo Pier is best known among locals as a solid flounder and bottomfish spot, with starry flounder, sculpin, and the occasional Irish lord rounding out a typical day's catch. Salmon fishing is possible here as well, with coho and pink salmon passing through Possession Sound on their way to the Stillaguamish and Snohomish rivers, though the pier isn't considered a prime salmon spot compared to dedicated salmon piers like Edmonds, so consider it a bonus rather than the main event. Crabbing is genuinely popular at Mukilteo, with Dungeness crab the primary target during open seasons, and squid jigging draws anglers to the pier after dark during the cooler months. Because rockfish retention has been closed in most Puget Sound marine areas in recent years, flounder and crab tend to be the most consistent targets here, so checking current WDFW rules before keeping any bottomfish is especially important at this pier. Mukilteo Pier is a great place to try your luck for Dungeness Crab, Squid and Flounder. Mukilteo Pier Fishing Seasons Salmon: Most Puget Sound piers, including Mukilteo, are open to salmon fishing year-round, and coho and pink salmon move through Possession Sound in late summer and early fall as they head toward the Stillaguamish and Snohomish systems, with pink salmon showing up in especially good numbers during odd-numbered years. Resident Chinook feed in the area year round and are also caught jigging with metal jigs like Buzz Bombs, Puget Pounders and P-Line Laser Minnows. Squid: Squid jigging at Mukilteo is best in the cooler months, typically fall and winter, when squid gather around the lit pier after dark on their way into Puget Sound to spawn. Check out our full line of Puget Sound squid jigs. Crab: Crabbing is one of the most popular activities at Mukilteo Pier during Marine Area 8-2's open summer season, with Dungeness crab the main target; always confirm current WDFW season dates, gear rules, and catch record card requirements before dropping a pot here. Use one of our Okuma Crab Snare Spinning Combos to long-distance cast out your favorite crab snare. Flounder: Flounder fishing is the most dependable, year-round option at Mukilteo Pier, with starry flounder and other bottomfish providing consistent action even outside of salmon and crab seasons. Use a sliding egg sinker setup with a chunk of bait or a Berkley Gulp! 2” Sandworm. Fishing on the Mukilteo Pier For flounder and other bottomfish, a simple bottom rig baited with shrimp or a small piece of herring fished right along the bottom is generally all it takes. Crabbers should bring a pot rated for the depth near the pier and be ready to check current Marine Area 8-2 regulations closely, since illegal or unmarked pots are a common complaint at busy public piers like this one, and staying within legal limits protects the fishery for everyone. Because public parking near the ferry terminal is limited and the employee lot is strictly enforced, arriving early and being prepared to walk a few minutes from designated parking will save some frustration. With its easy access from Seattle, dependable flounder fishing, and lively crabbing scene, Mukilteo Pier is a solid, low-key option for anglers looking to spend an afternoon on Possession Sound. Suggested Setup: Okuma Rockaway Salmon Pier & Beach Spinning Combo
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Fishing at Lincoln Park in Seattle
Fishing on Lincoln Park A rare stretch of natural, undeveloped shoreline within Seattle's city limits, Lincoln Park has become one of the most popular spots in town for salmon anglers willing to fish from the beach rather than a pier. When the pink salmon run hits its peak in odd-numbered years, this West Seattle park turns into one of the liveliest "combat fishing" scenes anywhere in Puget Sound. With its forested bluffs, beach trails, and the shore around Coleman Point offering prime casting spots, it gives city anglers a genuine taste of natural shoreline fishing without ever leaving Seattle. Where is Lincoln Park? Lincoln Park sits along the Puget Sound shoreline in West Seattle, near the Fauntleroy neighborhood and the ferry terminal that connects to Vashon Island and Southworth. The park offers over a hundred acres of forested bluffs and beach trails, giving it a genuinely natural feel that's rare this close to downtown, with points like Point Williams and Point Coleman providing prime casting spots along the shore. Unlike Seacrest Pier or Shilshole Marina, Lincoln Park is a beach fishery rather than a pier, so anglers wade in and cast from natural shoreline instead of standing on a dock. From downtown Seattle, Lincoln Park is roughly 15 to 20 minutes away via the West Seattle Bridge and Fauntleroy Way SW, making it another easy, close-to-home option for city anglers. Street parking is available near the park, though it can fill up quickly during the peak of pink salmon season, when the beach draws large, shoulder-to-shoulder crowds early in the morning. Lincoln Park Map What You Can Catch at Lincoln Park Lincoln Park is best known for coho and pink salmon, which migrate close to shore here, making it one of the more productive beach fisheries in the city for anglers without a boat. Sea-run cutthroat trout are also present and provide a worthwhile target outside of peak salmon season. Flounder and sole can be found in the mudflats and sandy bottom typical of this stretch of Puget Sound, and the area sees some interest from crabbers as well, though it's better known as a finfish spot than a dedicated crabbing destination. Because part of Lincoln Park's tidelands are designated as the Lincoln Park Marine Preserve, a protected no-shellfishing (Dungeness Crab included) zone along a specific stretch of the shoreline, it's essential to know current boundaries before casting anywhere in the park, since crabbing and digging shellfish inside the preserve is prohibited. Lincoln Park Fishing Seasons Salmon: Coho and pink salmon are the main draw at Lincoln Park, with coho providing action through summer and into fall and pink salmon arriving in massive numbers every odd-numbered year, typically peaking in August. During strong pink years, the beach can get genuinely crowded with anglers casting for these fish as they migrate close to shore on their way to spawn. Cast Buzz Bombs and P-Line Laser Minnows for the best shot at salmon from the beach. Sea-Run Cutthroat Trout: Sea-run cutthroat are available at Lincoln Park outside the peak salmon crowds, with the best action often coming in the fall as fish move along the shoreline. They respond well to small spoons, spinners, or flies fished close to structure, and because they draw far less attention than the salmon runs, they're a good option for anglers looking for a quieter session on the beach. Our favorite lures are Acme Kastmaster Spoons, Krocodile Spoons, and Roostertail Spinners for Lincoln Park Sea Run Cutthroat. Flounder: Flounder and sole are present in the sandy, mudflat sections of the park's shoreline, generally offering more consistent action outside the busiest salmon months, when the beach is far less crowded and easier to fish comfortably. Cast and still-fish with a Berkley Gulp 2” Sandworm or Powerbait Mousetail on a slip egg sinker setup for flounder. Crab: Dungeness crab opportunities exist along this stretch of Puget Sound during Marine Area 10's open summer season, though Lincoln Park is used more as a casual crabbing spot alongside fishing than as a primary destination, with current WDFW season dates and catch record card requirements applying as they do throughout the marine area. There is a no-crabbing area south of Coleman Point, so stay north to avoid the Lincoln Park Marine Preserve. Use one of our Okuma Crab Snare Spinning Combos with your favorite crab snare to catch delicious Dungeness Crab right off the beach! The shoreline south of Coleman Point has plenty of beach fishing access and is a great place to catch salmon! Fishing on Lincoln Park During the pink salmon run, the most effective technique at Lincoln Park is fishing a Buzz Bomb or similar metal jig, casting out and working it back in with a jigging retrieve as fish migrate along the shoreline. Because the beach draws such heavy "combat fishing" crowds during peak pink years, arriving early, well before sunrise on the best mornings, makes a real difference in claiming a good spot along Coleman Point. Fly anglers also fish this beach successfully, particularly for coho, and tend to find a bit more room to work compared to the tighter casting lanes favored by spinning gear anglers. Bring polarized sunglasses to help spot fish moving through the shallows, and check the Fish Washington app or current WDFW regulations before heading out, since salmon rules in Marine Area 10 can shift during the season. With its natural shoreline, strong pink and coho runs, and genuine sense of open space compared to Seattle's piers, Lincoln Park offers one of the most distinctive saltwater fishing experiences in the city. Suggested Setup: Okuma Rockaway Salmon Beach Spinning Combo
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Fishing on the Shilshole Bay Marina Piers in Seattle
Fishing on the Piers at Shilshole Marina Tucked into Seattle's Ballard neighborhood, Shilshole Bay Marina offers two distinct public fishing piers, a mile of scenic promenade, and a front-row seat to one of the busiest saltwater marinas in the state. Between the salmon passing through the bay and the squid that gather under the lights each winter, it's an easy, genuinely productive spot to fish without leaving the city. With Golden Gardens Park just next door and views of the Olympic Mountains across the water, it's as much a scenic destination as it is a productive one, giving anglers a reason to linger even between bites. Where are the Piers at Shilshole Marina? Shilshole Bay Marina sits in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood, right on Puget Sound at the western edge of the Lake Washington Ship Canal, adjacent to Golden Gardens Park. It's a large, working marina with roughly 1,400 slips, everything from kayaks to megayachts, giving the area a genuinely maritime, working-waterfront feel alongside its recreational appeal. Two public fishing piers serve anglers here: the Henry L. Kotkins Pier, more commonly known as the A-Dock pier, sits within the main marina, while a second pier is located at the Eddie Vine Boat Ramp at the marina's northern end, right next to Golden Gardens Park. From downtown Seattle, Shilshole is only about 20 minutes away, making it one of the more convenient saltwater fishing spots for city-based anglers, similar in ease to Seacrest Pier in West Seattle. Parking is available along Seaview Ave NW near the A-Dock pier, and free parking is also available at the Eddie Vine Boat Ramp, though both areas can fill up on busy summer weekends given how popular the surrounding park and marina promenade are with walkers and cyclists. Shilshole Bay Marina Map What You Can Catch at Shilshole Marina The A-Dock pier is best known as a solid spot for flounder and squid, with the sheltered marina waters and dock lighting making it a favorite for squid jiggers after dark. The area is also popular with crabbers working pots near the pier and along the breakwater and the few anglers that cast for salmon here do pick them up. At the Eddie Vine pier, protected by the continuation of the marina's breakwater, anglers have a good shot at salmon passing through Marine Area 10 on their way toward Puget Sound's northern reaches, along with the same flounder and squid opportunities found closer to A-Dock. Because Shilshole sits within WDFW's Marine Area 10, the same salmon, bottomfish, and shellfish regulations that apply elsewhere in the Seattle-Bremerton area apply here, and rules can shift during the season, so checking current WDFW regulations before keeping anything is always a smart move. Shilshole Marina Fishing Seasons Salmon. Salmon fishing at Shilshole is best in summer and into fall, when Chinook, coho, and pink salmon move through Puget Sound and past the marina's breakwater. Eddie Vine pier's protected position inside the entrance of the marina makes it a possible but not particularly perfect place to catch salmon, but A-dock does tend to see a decent salmon catch in the fall when Pinks and Coho are staging in front of the Lake Washington Ship Canal. Use Buzz Bombs and P-Line Laser Minnows, casting as far as possible into the bay. Squid. Squid show up reliably from fall through winter, when they move into Puget Sound to spawn and gather around the lit docks at both piers after dark, and summer evenings can occasionally produce a good squid bite as well. Pick up a variety of sizes and colors of squid jigs to prepare yourself for the upcoming season! Crab. Dungeness crab fishing is open seasonally in the summer months in Marine Area 10, with specific open days, gear limits, and catch record card requirements set by WDFW rules each year, so confirming the current season dates before dropping a pot near the marina is essential. Drop down a crab snare or cast one out away from the pier with our Okuma Crab Snare Spinning Combo. Flounder. Flounder fishing tends to be most productive during the cooler months, offering a reliable option once salmon season winds down. Small soft plastics like Berkley Gulp 2" Sandworms or Powerbait Floating Mice Tails with a slip egg sinker setup can be really effective! A Dock is located on the southern end of the marina and is good for crabbing, flounder, squid, crab and salmon fishing. Fishing on the Piers at Shilshole Marina Because Shilshole has two separate piers with slightly different characters, it's worth trying both: A-Dock for its reliable flounder and squid fishing close to the heart of the marina, and the Eddie Vine pier for a better shot at salmon thanks to its breakwater-protected position. For squid jigging, timing a trip around a flood tide after dark tends to produce the best results, since squid gather in the shadowy edges of light cast from the docks, and a simple glow jig worked slowly near the pilings is usually enough to get started. Salmon anglers working the Eddie Vine pier do well casting spoons or small jigs during tide changes, when fish are more actively moving through the area. Both piers see plenty of foot traffic from walkers, cyclists, and boaters using the marina's public promenade, so keeping gear tidy and being mindful of others sharing the space goes a long way. With free parking at Eddie Vine, nearby Golden Gardens Park for a break between bites, and a genuine variety of species to target across two piers, Shilshole Marina offers one of the most well-rounded urban fishing experiences in Seattle. Suggested Setup: Okuma Rockaway Salmon Beach Spinning Combo
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Fishing on the Seacrest Pier in Seattle
Fishing on the Seacrest Pier Few fishing spots in Washington offer a view like Seacrest Pier. With the Seattle skyline rising across the water and downtown's Water Taxi docking just steps away, it's proof that great fishing doesn't have to mean leaving the city behind. Summer evenings here bring the added draw of Chinook and coho staging near the Duwamish, while winter nights turn the pier into one of the best squid jigging spots in Puget Sound, lanterns glowing along the rail as anglers pull up jig after jig. Add in solid flounder fishing and a seasonal shot at Dungeness crab, and it's easy to see why Seacrest has become a go-to for city anglers chasing a little bit of everything. Where is Seacrest Pier? Seacrest Pier sits inside Seacrest Park in West Seattle, right on Elliott Bay at 1660 Harbor Ave SW. It's a genuinely urban fishing spot, part of a lively waterfront park that also draws walkers, joggers, kayakers, scuba divers, and Water Taxi passengers heading across the bay to downtown. Because the pier faces directly toward the Seattle skyline, it's one of the most scenic places to fish anywhere in the state, and the nearby Marination Ma Kai restaurant makes it easy to turn a fishing trip into a full outing. Seacrest Park is only about 10 to 15 minutes from downtown Seattle, just across the West Seattle Bridge or a short Water Taxi ride from the Seattle waterfront, making it by far the most convenient fishing spot in this guide series for anyone living in or visiting the city itself. Street parking is available nearby, though it can fill up on busy summer evenings and during peak squid season, so arriving early is a smart move. Seacrest Pier Map What You Can Catch on the Seacrest Pier Seacrest is best known for salmon fishing, with Chinook, coho, and pink salmon all passing close by the pier as they stage near the mouth of the nearby Duwamish River before heading upstream. The pier is also a popular winter and summer evening spot for squid jigging, drawing crowds of anglers after dark who dangle lanterns over the water to attract them. Flounder and sole are commonly caught from the pier and nearby mudflats, making for an approachable bottomfish fishery, and the area is also popular for recreational Dungeness crab during the open summer season. Because Seacrest sits within WDFW's Marine Area 10, all the usual Puget Sound salmon, bottomfish, and shellfish regulations apply, and rules can change during the season, so checking current WDFW rules before keeping anything is always worth doing. Seacrest Pier Fishing Seasons Salmon: Salmon fishing at Seacrest is best in summer and into fall, when Chinook, coho, and pink salmon move through Elliott Bay on their way toward the Duwamish, with pink salmon showing up in particularly large numbers in odd-numbered years. Try casting metal jigs like Puget Pounders, Buzz Bombs and P-Line Laser Minnows. Squid: Squid show up reliably in the cooler months, typically from fall through winter, when they move into Puget Sound to spawn and gather around lit piers like Seacrest after dark, though some summer evenings can also produce squid. Squid jigs in a variety of glow colors are the ticket here throughout the year. Crab: Dungeness crab fishing is open seasonally in the summer months in Marine Area 10, with specific open days and limits set by WDFW rules each year, so confirming the current crab season dates and catch record card requirements before dropping a pot is essential. Drop down a crab snare or cast one out away from the pier with our Okuma Crab Snare Spinning Combo. Flounder: Flounder fishing is generally most productive during the cooler months, making it a good option for anglers looking for action once the salmon season winds down. Small soft plastics like Berkley Gulp 2" Sandworms or Powerbait Floating Mice Tails with a slip egg sinker setup can be really effective! Seacrest Pier with Duwamish Head and the entrance to Elliott Bay in the background. Fishing on the Seacrest Pier Because Seacrest draws such a mixed crowd of anglers, walkers, and Water Taxi commuters, being mindful of foot traffic and keeping gear tidy goes a long way toward a pleasant outing here. For squid jigging, timing your trip around a flood tide after dark tends to produce the best results, since squid are drawn to light and gather in the shadowy edges just outside a lantern's glow; a simple squid jig dropped and jigged near the pier lights is usually all it takes to get started, and it's one of the most beginner-friendly fisheries in Puget Sound. Salmon anglers do well casting spoons or buzz bombs from the pier itself, especially during the morning or evening tide changes when fish are actively moving through the bay. The park offers restrooms, ADA-accessible paths, and a fish cleaning station, making it one of the more comfortable public piers to fish in the region. As with any Puget Sound fishery, checking the Fish Washington app or current WDFW regulations before heading out is a smart habit, since salmon, bottomfish, and crab rules can all shift during the season. With its unbeatable skyline views and genuine variety, from salmon to squid to crab, Seacrest Pier remains one of the best reasons to fish without ever really leaving Seattle. Suggested Setup: Okuma Rockaway Surf & Shore Spinning Combo
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Razor Clam Digging on the Washington Coast
Razor Clamming on the Washington Coast Few activities capture the spirit of the Pacific Northwest coast quite like razor clam digging. Armed with nothing more than a shovel or a clam gun, a clam net, and a good pair of boots, anglers of every experience level head out onto the wide, flat sand at low tide for a chance to dig up one of the region's most prized shellfish. Washington's coast offers four dedicated razor clam beaches, each with its own character, access points, and reasons to visit, making this uniquely accessible fishery one of the best reasons to plan a coastal trip nearly any time between fall and spring. Washington Coast clammers walking out to meet the tide line for an evening dig. Where are the Four Razor Clam Beaches on the Washington Coast? Washington's coastal razor clam fishery is managed across four primary beaches, stretching along roughly 100 miles of Pacific coastline in Pacific and Grays Harbor counties. From south to north, they are Long Beach, extending from the mouth of the Columbia River to Willapa Bay; Twin Harbors, running from Willapa Bay north to the south jetty at Grays Harbor; Copalis Beach, from the Grays Harbor north jetty up to the Copalis River; and Mocrocks, continuing from the Copalis River north to the southern boundary of the Quinault Indian Reservation. Each beach is backed by its own cluster of small coastal towns, from the resort community of Ocean Shores to the fishing port of Westport and the laid-back peninsula towns around Long Beach, giving diggers a real choice in atmosphere along with their choice of sand. From Seattle, reaching any of these beaches generally takes between 2.5 and 3.5 hours, depending on which one you're headed to. The most common route runs south on I-5 before cutting west on Highway 8 and Highway 12 toward Aberdeen, then continuing out to the coast on Highway 109 or Highway 105 for the northern and central beaches, or via Highway 101 and Highway 4 for the southern approach to Long Beach. Because all four beaches sit within a similar general drive-time range, many visitors base a trip around whichever beach happens to be open on their preferred digging date, rather than committing to one specific stretch of coast in advance. Washington Coast Razor Clam Seasons Razor clam digging in Washington generally takes place from early fall through late spring, timed around the minus-tide series that expose enough beach for good digging. WDFW announces tentative digging dates a few weeks to a few months in advance as part of its seasonal Razor Clam Management Plan, but final approval for any specific date comes only a few days to a week ahead, based on marine toxin testing results. Not every beach is necessarily open on every approved date: Long Beach and Twin Harbors are typically open on all dates within a digging series, while Copalis and Mocrocks generally alternate, with WDFW opening one or the other on a given day to spread out harvest pressure. Digging typically happens in the evening during fall and early winter, when the best minus tides fall after dark, and shifts to morning low tides later in the season. Because approvals depend on same-week toxin testing, a scheduled date can occasionally be canceled on short notice, so checking WDFW's current status right before a trip is always worthwhile. WDFW Razor Clam seasons and beaches Seattle Fishing Co Razor Clamming Gear Page Razor Clamming Rules All diggers age 16 or older need a valid Washington shellfish license for the current license year, running April 1 through March 31, purchasable online through WDFW, through the MyWDFW mobile app, or from license dealers statewide. Buying a license before arriving at the coast is strongly recommended, since purchase options on the beach itself are limited. The daily limit is 15 razor clams per digger, and by law diggers must keep the first 15 clams they dig regardless of size or condition, so clams can't be tossed back once they're out of the sand in hopes of finding bigger ones. Each digger must keep their clams in a separate container from anyone else in their group, and digging for another person, sometimes called limit sharing, is not allowed. Before any beach opens, the Washington Department of Health tests for domoic acid, a naturally occurring marine toxin that can pose serious health risks in high concentrations, and both WDFW's season approval and current DOH guidance need to align before a beach is legally and safely open. A handful of permanent razor clam reserves, closed to all harvest and marked with metal poles and signage, exist on several of these beaches, so it's worth knowing the boundaries near wherever you plan to dig. Razor Clams are a huge draw to the Washington Coast during the fall, winter and spring openers. Best Beaches for Digging Razor Clams Washington's coast offers four dedicated razor clam beaches, each with its own character. Long Beach and Twin Harbors stay open throughout approved digging series, while Copalis and Mocrocks alternate open days. From the resort energy of Ocean Shores to the quiet stretches near Moclips, every beach offers its own reasons to dig. Long Beach Razor Clam Digging Long Beach stretches roughly 28 miles from the Columbia River to Willapa Bay, making it the longest of Washington's four razor clam beaches and often billed as one of the longest drivable beaches in the world. The nearest towns are Ilwaco near the southern end, the town of Long Beach itself, and Ocean Park further north, each offering its own lodging, dining, and beach access along the peninsula. With this much room to spread out, Long Beach is a favorite for visitors who want to combine a weekend of digging with the area's other attractions, including Cape Disappointment State Park and the annual Long Beach Kite Festival. Twin Harbors Razor Clam Digging Twin Harbors runs from the mouth of Willapa Bay north to the south jetty at Grays Harbor, anchored by the busy fishing port of Westport and the smaller community of Grayland just to the south. Like Long Beach, Twin Harbors is typically open on every date within an approved digging series, making it one of the more dependable beaches to plan around. Westport's full slate of charter fishing, crabbing, and dining options makes Twin Harbors a natural pick for anglers who want to build a broader coastal weekend around their clamming trip. Copalis Beach Razor Clam Digging Copalis Beach extends from the north jetty at Grays Harbor up to the Copalis River, running through the resort town of Ocean Shores as well as Ocean City and Oyhut. With six maintained public access points, more than any of the other three beaches, Copalis is one of the most accessible options on the coast, and Ocean Shores' hotels, restaurants, and other attractions make it an easy beach to pair with a full weekend getaway. Because Copalis alternates open days with Mocrocks, confirming which beach is open on a given date is essential before making the drive. Mocrocks Beach Razor Clam Digging Mocrocks Beach picks up where Copalis leaves off, running from the Copalis River north to the boundary of the Quinault Indian Reservation, past the communities of Pacific Beach, Moclips, and the resort town of Seabrook. With fewer access points and generally lighter crowds than its neighbors, Mocrocks appeals to diggers who want a quieter, more scenic stretch of coast, even if it means a bit more walking from the parking area to the sand. As with Copalis, always confirm which of the two alternating beaches is open before planning a Mocrocks trip. Here is a very obvious Razor Clam "show". When they have been exposed by the tide for only a little while, the show can be nothing but a small dimple in the sand. How to Find and Dig Razor Clams Once you're out on the sand at low tide, look for a "show," the small dimple, dome, or keyhole-shaped indentation in the wet sand that reveals a clam sitting just below the surface. Razor clams sense vibration and dig down quickly once disturbed, so moving carefully and digging just beside the show, rather than stomping toward it or digging straight down on top of it, gives the best chance of bringing one up whole. Many diggers prefer a clam gun, a metal or PVC tube pushed straight down around the show and pulled back out to bring up a core of sand with the clam inside, since it's typically gentler on the clam and easier on the back than repeated shovel digging. Clam Guns are the easiest and most popular way to harvest Razor Clams. Gear You Need for Digging Razor Clams At a minimum, bring a valid shellfish license, a shovel or clam gun, and a bucket or mesh bag to hold your catch, keeping each digger's clams separated as required. Waterproof, grippy gloves make handling a sandy shovel handle much easier, and waterproof rubber boots or hip and chest waders are worth having given how much time you'll spend standing in wet sand. Coastal weather can shift quickly, so layers, a warm hat, and a rain shell are smart additions, and a headlamp or flashlight is essential for evening low-tide digs, common earlier in the season before the schedule shifts to morning tides. Coastal towns near all four beaches, especially Ocean Shores and the Long Beach Peninsula, offer local shops where visitors can pick up or rent gear if they arrive without their own. Morning on Mocrocks Beach. all the clam holes will be wiped clean by high tide in a few hours. Driving on the Beach Vehicles are permitted on most of Washington's razor clam beaches, but state law requires drivers to stay on the hard-packed sand near the high tide line, generally the darker, firmer sand rather than the soft, dry sand closer to the dunes. Following existing tire tracks is a reliable way to stay on safe ground when the boundary isn't obvious. The posted speed limit on all of these beaches is 25 mph, and vehicles should only enter and exit at designated public access points. Beach driving conditions can be especially hazardous in the fall, when soft sand has built up over the summer, so extra caution is warranted during early-season digs. Violating beach driving laws can result in fines, with steeper penalties for incidents involving protected wildlife, particularly nesting snowy plovers, found along sensitive stretches of several of these beaches. Jerome and his family out on the Copalis Beach! Other Information Razor clam populations and digging opportunity can vary significantly from year to year based on WDFW's summer population assessments, so the number of open days, and which beaches are included, can look quite different from one season to the next. Checking WDFW's current razor clam webpage before planning any trip is the best way to confirm open dates, beach-specific rules, and current Department of Health guidance. Beyond the digging itself, each of these four beaches sits near its own worthwhile attractions, from Cape Disappointment and the Long Beach Kite Festival in the south to Ocean Shores' casino and coastal activities further north, making a Washington coast razor clam trip an easy foundation for a full weekend away, whichever beach ends up being open when you go. Seattle Fishing Co Razor Clamming Gear Page
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Razor Clamming at Mocrocks Beaches
Razor Clamming at Mocrocks Beaches Wide, wild, and often overlooked compared to its more famous coastal neighbors, Mocrocks Beach is one of Washington's best-kept razor clamming secrets. Fewer crowds, a genuinely scenic stretch of sand, and consistently good digging when the season is open make it a favorite for anyone willing to make the drive out to Grays Harbor County. Backed by low dunes and framed by the misty stretch of coastline near Moclips and Pacific Beach, it has the kind of quiet, unpolished charm that keeps regulars coming back year after year, even when better-known beaches like Long Beach or Twin Harbors are pulling in bigger crowds. Thousands of people head to Mocrocks with the Razor Clam season opens. Where are the Mocrocks Beaches Mocrocks Beach runs along the Pacific coast from the mouth of the Copalis River north to the southern boundary of the Quinault Indian Reservation, in Grays Harbor County. It's a wide, sandy beach backed by low dunes, part of the same stretch of coastline that includes Long Beach, Twin Harbors, and Copalis, Washington's four traditional razor clam beaches. The nearest towns are Moclips, Pacific Beach, and the resort community of Seabrook, all strung along State Route 109, with the larger hub of Ocean Shores about 15 miles to the south for gas, groceries, and lodging. From Seattle, plan on roughly 3 hours to reach Mocrocks, generally down I-5 and then west on Highway 8 and Highway 12 toward Aberdeen, before heading north on Highway 109 through Ocean Shores, Copalis Beach, and Pacific Beach. It's a similar drive time to Grays Harbor and the Humptulips River, making it easy to combine a clamming trip with other central coast activities, especially given how tide-dependent digging days are scheduled. Seattle Fishing Co Razor Clamming Gear Page Mocrocks Beach Map Best Mocrocks Beach Access Points Mocrocks has three maintained public access points, all off Highway 109. Second Street in Moclips provides access at the northern end of the beach. Andalyde Road, off First Street and Homer Street in Pacific Beach, is the most centrally located approach. The Roosevelt Beach approach, just south of Seabrook, rounds out the trio and is a popular starting point for visitors staying in that area. Because Mocrocks only has these three points of road access, arriving early on open digging days and being ready to park a bit of a walk from the sand is a smart habit, especially on weekends and holidays when digging is popular. Access points can also close due to erosion or flooding, so it's worth checking current conditions before heading out. There are other walk-in access points that are popular. Seabrook has a public access point from the village that leads down to the beach via a long staircase. Walk-in access is also available at Pacific Beach State Park. Searching for Razor Clams in the Pacific surfline. Mocrocks Clamming Seasons and Rules Razor clam season on Washington's coast generally runs from early fall through late spring, with WDFW announcing tentative digging dates a few weeks to a few months in advance, and final approval for each specific date typically coming just a few days to a week ahead of time, based on marine toxin test results. Mocrocks and Copalis are not open on every date within a digging series, since WDFW alternates which beaches are open on which days to manage harvest pressure and to share opportunity with tribal co-managers, so always confirm which beach is open on your intended date before making the drive. All diggers age 16 or older need a valid Washington shellfish/fishing license for the current license year, which runs April 1 through March 31, and licenses can be purchased online through WDFW, via the MyWDFW mobile app, or from license dealers statewide; buying one before you arrive at the coast is strongly recommended. The daily limit is 15 clams per digger, and by law every digger must keep the first 15 clams they dig regardless of size or condition, meaning clams can't be tossed back once dug. Each digger's clams must be kept in a separate container. Before any beach opens, the Washington Department of Health tests for domoic acid, a naturally occurring marine toxin that can be dangerous if consumed in high enough levels, so both WDFW's season approval and current DOH guidance need to line up before digging is considered safe. WDFW Razor Clam Seasons and Beaches How to Dig Razor Clams Once you're out on the sand at low tide, look for a "show," the small dimple, dome, or keyhole-shaped indentation in the wet sand that reveals a clam's location just below the surface. Razor clams sense vibration and dig down fast once disturbed, so a soft approach and a quick dig just beside the show, rather than directly on top of it, works better than stomping around or swinging a shovel straight through the shell. Many diggers prefer a clam gun, a metal or PVC tube pushed straight down around the show and lifted out to pull up a core of sand with the clam inside, since it's gentler on the clam and easier on the back than repeated shovel digging. A family day at the beach, with a limit of Razor Clams! Gear You Need for Digging Razor Clams At a minimum, you'll need a valid shellfish license, a shovel or clam gun, and a bucket or mesh bag to hold your catch, keeping each digger's clams separated as required. Waterproof, grippy gloves make gripping a sandy shovel handle easier, and waterproof rubber boots or hip and chest waders are worth having given how much time you'll spend standing in wet sand. Coastal weather turns quickly, so layers, a warm hat, and a rain shell are smart additions, and a headlamp or flashlight is essential for the evening low-tide digs common earlier in the season. Local outfitters in nearby Seabrook and Pacific Beach can help outfit visitors who don't already have their own gear. Driving on the Beach Vehicles are permitted on much of Mocrocks Beach, but Washington law requires drivers to stay on the hard-packed sand near the high tide line, generally the darker, firmer sand rather than the soft, dry sand closer to the dunes. When in doubt, following existing tire tracks is a reliable way to stay on safe ground. The posted speed limit on the beach is 25 mph, and vehicles should only enter and exit at designated public access points. Beach driving conditions can be especially hazardous in the fall, when soft sand has built up over the summer, so extra caution is warranted during early-season digs. Violating beach driving laws can result in fines, and penalties increase significantly for incidents involving protected wildlife such as nesting snowy plovers, so staying alert for wildlife closures matters as much as staying on firm sand. Mocrocks Beaches offer great digging throughout the season on one of the more secluded sections of Washington's Coast. Other Clamming Info Mocrocks Beach also offers restrooms at some access points, though there's no garbage service, so pack out what you bring in. Nearby Griffiths-Priday State Park, at the mouth of the Copalis River just south of Mocrocks, is worth a stop for its dunes, birdwatching, and additional beach access. Because razor clam populations and digging opportunity can vary significantly from year to year based on summer population assessments, checking WDFW's current razor clam webpage before planning a trip is essential, both for confirming open dates and for understanding just how much opportunity a given season offers. With a little planning around tides, licensing, and current beach conditions, Mocrocks offers one of the most rewarding and least crowded razor clamming experiences on the Washington coast. Check out our other Washington Razor Clam Beaches: Long Beach, Twin Harbors and Copalis.
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Razor Clamming at Long Beach
Razor Clamming at Long Beach Billed as the longest beach in the world, the Long Beach Peninsula offers about as much room to dig as any razor clam beach in Washington. With 28 miles of wide, flat sand and a string of small coastal towns along its length, it's a destination anglers plan entire weekends around, not just a single low tide. From Ilwaco to Oysterville, the peninsula has enough lodging, dining, and open beach to accommodate crowds without ever feeling cramped, making it one of the most welcoming spots on the coast for a multi-day clamming trip. Where is Long Beach Long Beach extends roughly 28 miles along the Pacific coast from the mouth of the Columbia River north to the entrance of Willapa Bay, occupying the entire outer edge of the Long Beach Peninsula in Pacific County. The peninsula is dotted with small, laid-back coastal communities, including Ilwaco near the southern end, the town of Long Beach itself, Ocean Park, Klipsan Beach, and Oysterville toward the north, each offering its own flavor of lodging, dining, and beach access. The area has a classic, old-fashioned beach town feel, home to an annual kite festival and long a hub for oyster harvesting in Willapa Bay alongside its razor clam fishery. From Seattle, reaching Long Beach takes roughly 3 to 3.5 hours, generally down I-5 to Longview or Kelso before heading west on Highway 4 along the Columbia River, or via Highway 101 through Aberdeen and South Bend. It's one of the longer drives among Washington's coastal razor clam beaches, but the peninsula's abundance of hotels, seaside cabins, and restaurants makes it easy to turn the trip into a full weekend rather than rushing back the same day. Seattle Fishing Co Razor Clamming Gear Page Long Beach Map Best Long Beach Access Points Because Long Beach runs the length of an entire peninsula, there are several public, maintained access points spread along its 28 miles, generally located near each coastal community. Popular access points are Seaview Beach approach, Sid Snyder Beach Approach in Long Beach, Bolstad Avenue Beach Approach in Long Beach, Cranberry Road Beach Approach in Oceanside, Klipsan Beach Approach, Bay Avenue Beach Approach in Ocean Park, and Oysterville Beach Approach. Vehicular access is permitted at these sites unless otherwise posted. A quarter-mile razor clam reserve, closed to all harvesting, sits beginning 2.8 miles north of the Oysterville approach and extending north from there, so pay attention to posted markers in that stretch. Given the beach's length, picking an access point near the town you're staying in, or near the specific stretch you plan to dig, is generally more efficient than trying to cover a lot of ground in one visit. Digging Razor Clams on a sunny spring day. Long Beach Clamming Seasons and Rules Razor clam season on the Washington coast generally runs from fall through early spring, with the best digging tied to minus-tide series when WDFW opens the beach based on tide schedules and marine toxin testing. Long Beach and Twin Harbors are typically open on every date within an approved digging series, unlike Copalis and Mocrocks, which alternate open days between each other, making Long Beach one of the more consistently open beaches once a series is confirmed. All diggers age 16 or older need a valid Washington shellfish license for the current license year, which runs April 1 through March 31, available online through WDFW, via the MyWDFW mobile app, or from statewide license dealers; buying one before arriving on the peninsula is strongly recommended, and clam guns can also be rented locally for visitors who don't want to bring their own. The daily limit is 15 clams per digger, and every digger must keep the first 15 clams they dig regardless of size or condition, so nothing dug can be tossed back once it's out of the sand. Each digger's clams must be kept in a separate container. Both WDFW's season approval and current Washington Department of Health guidance on domoic acid, a naturally occurring marine toxin, need to align before any stretch of Long Beach is actually safe and legal to dig, and seasons can open or close quickly depending on test results, so checking current status close to your trip date matters. WDFW Razor Clam Seasons and Beaches Heading out to the tide line during an evening dig. How to Dig Razor Clams At low tide, look for a "show," the small dimple, dome, or keyhole-shaped indentation in the wet sand that reveals a clam sitting just below the surface. Razor clams sense vibration and dig down fast once disturbed, so a light footstep and a quick dig just beside the show, rather than stomping around or digging straight down on top of it, gives you the best shot at bringing one up intact. Many diggers prefer a clam gun, a metal or PVC tube pushed straight down around the show and pulled back out to bring up a core of sand with the clam inside, since it's gentler on the clam and easier on the back than repeated shovel digging, especially across a long, open beach like this one. Gear You Need for Digging Razor Clams At a minimum, bring a valid shellfish license, a shovel or clam gun, and a bucket or mesh bag to hold your catch, keeping each digger's clams separated as required. Waterproof, grippy gloves make handling a sandy shovel handle easier, and waterproof rubber boots or hip and chest waders are worth having given how much time you'll spend standing in wet sand. Coastal weather can turn quickly, so layers, a warm hat, and a rain shell are smart additions, and a headlamp or flashlight is essential for the evening low-tide digs common earlier in the season. If you'd rather not travel with a clam gun, local shops on the peninsula rent them, making Long Beach one of the easier destinations for visitors without their own gear. Driving on the Beach Vehicles are permitted on most of Long Beach, part of what makes it famous as one of the longest drivable beaches anywhere, but Washington law still requires drivers to stay on the hard-packed sand near the high tide line rather than the softer, dry sand closer to the dunes. When in doubt, following existing tire tracks is the safest bet. The posted speed limit on the beach is 25 mph, and vehicles should only enter and exit at designated public access points. Given the sheer length of this beach, it's especially important to keep an eye on tide timing so you're not caught driving a long stretch of sand as the water comes back in. Violating beach driving laws can result in fines, with steeper penalties for incidents involving protected wildlife such as nesting snowy plovers, which are known to nest along parts of the peninsula's northern reaches, so watch for posted closures around sensitive habitat. Holding up her very first Razor Clam, well done! Other Clamming Info Long Beach's peninsula offers plenty beyond clamming, including Cape Disappointment State Park at the southern tip, with its lighthouses and Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, and Leadbetter Point State Park at the northern end, a major shorebird migration site where seasonal closures protect nesting snowy plovers each spring and summer. The town of Long Beach also hosts one of the world's largest kite festivals each August, and Oysterville remains a great stop for fresh oysters between digs. Because razor clam populations and digging opportunity can vary meaningfully from year to year based on WDFW's summer population assessments, checking the current razor clam webpage before planning a trip is the best way to know both what's open and how much opportunity that season actually offers. With its record-setting length, dependable access, and full slate of nearby attractions, Long Beach remains one of the most complete razor clamming destinations in the state. Check out our other Washington Razor Clam Beaches: Mocrocks, Twin Harbors and Copalis.
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Razor Clamming at Copalis Beaches
Razor Clamming at Copalis Beaches Anchored by the resort town of Ocean Shores, Copalis Beach is one of Washington's four classic razor clam beaches and one of the most accessible on the entire coast. With six maintained public access points and a full slate of nearby amenities, it's an easy pick for a first razor clamming trip, or a reliable go-to for anyone who's done it before. Between the hotels, restaurants, and other coastal attractions clustered around Ocean Shores, it's also one of the easiest beaches to turn into a full weekend getaway rather than just a quick dig. A freshly dug limit of Copalis Beach Razor Clams. Where are the Copalis Beaches Copalis Beach extends along the Pacific coast from the north jetty at the mouth of Grays Harbor north to the Copalis River, in Grays Harbor County. It's a wide, sandy stretch that runs through Ocean Shores, Ocean City, and Oyhut, giving it a more developed, resort-town feel than some of the more remote razor clam beaches further north, like Mocrocks. Ocean Shores itself offers hotels, restaurants, a casino, and plenty of other coastal activities, making Copalis a natural choice for folks who want their clamming trip paired with a full weekend getaway. From Seattle, plan on roughly 2.5 to 3 hours to reach Copalis Beach, generally down I-5 and then west on Highway 8 and Highway 12 toward Aberdeen, before heading north through Hoquiam onto Highway 109 toward Ocean Shores and Ocean City. It's a similar drive time to Grays Harbor and the Humptulips River, and the abundance of lodging and dining in Ocean Shores makes it one of the more convenient coastal beaches to turn into an overnight trip rather than a rushed day out. Seattle Fishing Co Razor Clamming Gear Page Copalis Beach Map Best Copalis Beach Access Points Copalis has six maintained public access points, more than any of the other coastal razor clam beaches, all reached off Highway 109 or streets within Ocean Shores. 2nd Street in Ocean City and the terminus of Highway 115 in Oyhut cover the beach's southern stretch near the mouth of Grays Harbor. Within Ocean Shores itself, Chance A La Mer, Pacific Avenue, Pacific Boulevard, Ocean Lake Way, and Tarus Street all provide additional entry points, giving diggers a lot of flexibility to spread out along the beach rather than concentrating at a single approach. Note that a quarter-mile razor clam reserve, closed to all harvesting, sits just south of the Ocean City approach at 2nd Avenue, so pay attention to posted markers in that stretch. Spring clamming season brings great weather and daylight digs! Copalis Clamming Seasons and Rules Razor clam season on the Washington coast generally runs from early fall through late spring, with WDFW announcing tentative digging dates a few weeks to a few months ahead of time, and final approval for each specific date typically coming just a few days to a week out, based on marine toxin testing. Copalis and Mocrocks are not open on every date within a digging series, since WDFW alternates which beaches are open on which days, so always confirm which beach is open before making the drive; a scheduled opening can occasionally change on short notice if new biotoxin results come back, which can be frustrating for visitors planning around a specific date. All diggers age 16 or older need a valid Washington shellfish license for the current license year, which runs April 1 through March 31, purchasable online through WDFW, via the MyWDFW mobile app, or from statewide license dealers; buying one before arriving at the coast is strongly recommended. The daily limit is 15 clams per digger, and every digger must keep the first 15 clams they dig regardless of size or condition, so nothing dug can be tossed back once it's out of the sand. Each digger's clams must be kept in a separate container. Both WDFW season approval and current Washington Department of Health guidance on domoic acid, a naturally occurring marine toxin, need to align before a beach is actually safe and legal to dig. WDFW Razor Clam Seasons and Beaches How to Dig Razor Clams At low tide, look for a "show," the small dimple, dome, or keyhole-shaped indentation in the wet sand that reveals a clam sitting just below the surface. Razor clams sense vibration and dig down fast once disturbed, so a light footstep and a quick dig just beside the show, rather than stomping around or digging straight down on top of it, gives you the best shot at bringing one up intact. Many diggers prefer a clam gun, a metal or PVC tube pushed straight down around the show and pulled back out to bring up a core of sand with the clam inside, since it's gentler on the clam and easier on the back than repeated shovel digging, especially over a full session. Sunset on the Washington Coast, and a fresh set of tides push in at the end of another successful dig. Gear You Need for Digging Razor Clams At a minimum, bring a valid shellfish license, a shovel or clam gun, and a bucket or mesh bag to hold your catch, keeping each digger's clams separated as required. Waterproof, grippy gloves make handling a sandy shovel handle easier, and waterproof rubber boots or hip and chest waders are worth having given how much time you'll spend standing in wet sand. Coastal weather can turn quickly, so layers, a warm hat, and a rain shell are smart additions, and a headlamp or flashlight is essential for the evening low-tide digs common earlier in the season. Because Ocean Shores has a range of outdoor and sporting goods shops, Copalis is also one of the easier beaches to pick up last-minute gear if you arrive without everything you need. Driving on the Beach Vehicles are permitted on much of Copalis Beach, but Washington law requires drivers to stay on the hard-packed sand near the high tide line rather than the softer, dry sand closer to the dunes. When in doubt, following existing tire tracks is the safest bet. The posted speed limit on the beach is 25 mph, and vehicles should only enter and exit at designated public access points. Because Copalis sees heavier traffic than some of the more remote coastal beaches, thanks to its proximity to Ocean Shores, staying alert for pedestrians and other vehicles is especially important here. Violating beach driving laws can result in fines, with steeper penalties for incidents involving protected wildlife such as nesting snowy plovers, so watch for posted closures around sensitive habitat. Other Clamming Info Ocean Shores hosts an annual Razor Clam Festival timed around spring digging series, adding a festive, community feel to a Copalis trip that's harder to find at more remote beaches. Because the town offers so much lodging, dining, and other coastal activities, from a casino to charter fishing, Copalis works well as an anchor for a full weekend rather than a quick in-and-out dig. As always, razor clam populations and digging opportunity can vary meaningfully from year to year based on WDFW's summer population assessments, so checking the current razor clam webpage before planning a trip is the best way to know both what's open and how much opportunity that season actually offers. Check out our other Washington Razor Clam Beaches: Long Beach, Mocrocks and Twin Harbors.
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Razor Clamming at Twin Harbors Beaches
Razor Clamming at Twin Harbors Beaches Stretching along the sandy coastline between two of Washington's great natural harbors, Twin Harbors is a longtime favorite among razor clam diggers for its sheer length and reliable access. Backed by the working fishing town of Westport and the quieter community of Grayland, it offers some of the most consistent digging opportunities on the entire coast. Its long, largely uninterrupted stretch of sand means fewer bottlenecks than shorter beaches, and its typically dependable open-every-day status during approved digging series makes it a favorite for anglers who want to plan a trip with confidence rather than gamble on which beach happens to be open that day. Razor Clam season brings one of the largest events to the Washington Coast! Where are the Twin Harbors Beaches Twin Harbors Beach runs along the Pacific coast from the north edge of Willapa Bay up to the south jetty at the mouth of Grays Harbor, in Grays Harbor and Pacific counties. As its name suggests, the beach sits between these two harbors, giving it a long, largely uninterrupted stretch of sand backed by dunes and beach grass. The nearest towns are Westport, a busy commercial and sport fishing port with plenty of restaurants, lodging, and marine services, and Grayland, a smaller, quieter community just to the south known for its cranberry bogs as much as its beach access. From Seattle, plan on roughly 2.5 to 3 hours to reach Twin Harbors, generally down I-5 and then west on Highway 8 and Highway 12 toward Aberdeen, before continuing on Highway 105 south through Westport and Grayland. That puts it in the same general drive-time range as Grays Harbor and Copalis, and Westport's amenities make it an easy base for a weekend built around both clamming and other coastal activities like fishing charters or crabbing. Seattle Fishing Co Razor Clamming Gear Page Twin Harbors Map Best Twin Harbors Beach Access Points Twin Harbors has four maintained public access points, all reached off Highway 105. Grayland Beach Road and Cranberry Beach Road both provide access near the town of Grayland, while Bonge Avenue offers another approach roughly in the middle of the beach's long stretch. Warrenton Cannery Road, further south toward the Willapa Bay end of the beach, rounds out the access points. Because the beach is one of the longest of Washington's razor clam beaches, having several access points spread along its length makes it easier to spread out and avoid the heaviest concentrations of diggers, especially compared to shorter beaches with only one or two ways in. A quarter-mile razor clam reserve, closed to all harvesting, sits along the middle of the beach near the county line approach, so pay attention to posted markers in that area. For some great walk-in access in Westport, Westhaven State Park is the northernmost section of Twin Harbors and is open during daylight hours. Westport Light State Park has a nice walk-in beach approach with ample parking closeby. Twin Harbors Clamming Seasons and Rules Razor clam season on the Washington coast generally runs from early fall through late spring, with WDFW announcing tentative digging dates a few weeks to a few months in advance and final approval for each specific date typically coming just a few days to a week ahead, based on marine toxin testing. Unlike Copalis and Mocrocks, which alternate open days between each other, Twin Harbors and Long Beach are generally open on every date within an approved digging series, making Twin Harbors one of the more reliably open beaches once a series is confirmed. All diggers age 16 or older need a valid Washington shellfish license for the current license year, which runs April 1 through March 31, available online through WDFW, via the MyWDFW mobile app, or from statewide license dealers; buying one before arriving at the coast is strongly recommended. The daily limit is 15 clams per digger, and every digger must keep the first 15 clams they dig regardless of size or condition, so nothing dug can be tossed back once it's out of the sand. Each digger's clams must be kept in a separate container. Both WDFW's season approval and current Washington Department of Health guidance on domoic acid, a naturally occurring marine toxin, need to align before any beach, including Twin Harbors, is actually safe and legal to dig. WDFW Razor Clam Seasons and Beaches Digging the last clams to make a limit as the sun sets over Grayland, Washington. How to Dig Razor Clams At low tide, look for a "show," the small dimple, dome, or keyhole-shaped indentation in the wet sand that reveals a clam sitting just below the surface. Razor clams sense vibration and dig down fast once disturbed, so a light footstep and a quick dig just beside the show, rather than stomping around or digging straight down on top of it, gives you the best shot at bringing one up intact. Many diggers prefer a clam gun, a metal or PVC tube pushed straight down around the show and pulled back out to bring up a core of sand with the clam inside, since it's gentler on the clam and easier on the back than repeated shovel digging, especially over a long stretch of beach like Twin Harbors where you may be covering a lot of ground. Gear You Need for Digging Razor Clams At a minimum, bring a valid shellfish license, a shovel or clam gun, and a bucket or mesh bag to hold your catch, keeping each digger's clams separated as required. Waterproof, grippy gloves make handling a sandy shovel handle easier, and waterproof rubber boots or hip and chest waders are worth having given how much time you'll spend standing in wet sand. Coastal weather can turn quickly, especially with Twin Harbors' exposure to open ocean swell, so layers, a warm hat, and a rain shell are smart additions, and a headlamp or flashlight is essential for the evening low-tide digs common earlier in the season. Westport's marine supply shops and sporting goods stores make it one of the easier places on the coast to pick up last-minute gear. Driving on the Beach Vehicles are permitted on much of Twin Harbors Beach, but Washington law requires drivers to stay on the hard-packed sand near the high tide line rather than the softer, dry sand closer to the dunes. When in doubt, following existing tire tracks is the safest bet. The posted speed limit on the beach is 25 mph, and vehicles should only enter and exit at designated public access points. Because Twin Harbors is such a long beach, it's worth planning ahead for which access point puts you closest to where you actually want to dig, since driving the full length of an open stretch takes real time. Violating beach driving laws can result in fines, with steeper penalties for incidents involving protected wildlife such as nesting snowy plovers, so watch for posted closures around sensitive habitat. Twin Harbors offers miles of beaches to explore. Other Clamming Info Westport is one of the most full-service towns on the Washington coast, with charter fishing, crabbing, a maritime museum, and a lighthouse all within easy reach of the beach, making Twin Harbors a natural anchor for a longer coastal weekend rather than a quick clamming trip alone. Because razor clam populations and digging opportunity can vary meaningfully from year to year based on WDFW's summer population assessments, checking the current razor clam webpage before planning a trip is the best way to know both what's open and how much opportunity that season actually offers. With its length, reliable access, and the amenities of Westport and Grayland close by, Twin Harbors remains one of the most dependable and well-rounded razor clamming destinations on the entire Washington coast. Check out our other Washington Razor Clam Beaches: Long Beach, Mocrocks and Copalis.
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Fishing the Satsop River
Fishing at the Satsop River A major triburary of the Chehalis basin, the Satsop River offers something increasingly rare on the Washington coast: genuinely good fall salmon and winter steelhead fishing without the crowds that pile up on its more famous neighbors. Free-flowing and rain-fed, it's a river built for anglers who value solitude as much as a bent rod. Its East and West Forks wind through classic Olympic Peninsula timber country, delivering a wilder, more unpredictable experience than the dam-regulated rivers nearby, and rewarding anglers willing to trade a bit of consistency for a quieter stretch of water and a real shot at coho, chum, and steelhead. Where is the Satsop River The Satsop River is a major tributary of the Chehalis River, located in Grays Harbor County on the edge of the Olympic Peninsula. Known for its distinct East and West Forks, which come together before the main stem joins the Chehalis near the town of Satsop, the river flows through a heavily forested, rain-drenched watershed. Unlike its dam-regulated neighbor the Wynoochee, the Satsop is largely free-flowing, which gives it a more natural and unpredictable flow regime, rising and falling dramatically after heavy rain. Important tributaries, including the Canyon River, the Little River, and Decker Creek, add their own spawning water to the system and help support the strong salmon runs the Satsop is known for. From Seattle, the Satsop is roughly 2 to 2.5 hours south, generally down I-5 before heading west on Highway 8 and Highway 12 toward Montesano, then following East Satsop Road or Highway 12 north toward the river and Schafer State Park. That puts it right alongside the Wynoochee and Chehalis in terms of drive time, making it easy to pair a Satsop trip with a visit to one of its neighboring rivers in the same outing. Satsop River Map What you can catch in the Satsop River The Satsop is best known for its fall coho and chum salmon fishing, with anglers regularly finding the river absolutely loaded with both species after a good rain event pushes fresh fish upstream. A solid chum run typically peaks from October through December, providing some of the most reliable late-season action in the Chehalis basin. Winter steelhead round out the calendar, with the run beginning in November and peaking from December through January, fished on both the East and West Forks. While the Satsop isn't typically considered as strong a winter steelhead fishery as the nearby Wynoochee or Skookumchuck, that's exactly the appeal for many local anglers who prefer fishing with fewer people around, even if it means a bit less consistent action. Because the river is co-managed by WDFW and local tribes with a mix of hatchery and wild stocks, regulations shift often, and selective gear rules are commonly applied to protect sensitive wild fish, so double-checking current rules before keeping anything is essential. The Satsop River hosts some great holding water for salmon and steelhead. Satsop River Fishing Seasons Spring is generally quiet on the Satsop, with the main salmon and steelhead runs behind and the river's naturally variable, rain-driven flows still running high from winter. There isn't much of a dedicated spring fishery here, and most anglers use this time to scout the East and West Forks, check on access points like Schafer State Park, and get familiar with current river conditions before the fall run arrives. Summer stays relatively slow as well, without a significant salmon or steelhead presence in the system during these months. Lower, more predictable flows make this a pleasant time to explore the river on foot, and it's worth watching WDFW's season-setting announcements and any updates on that year's coastal salmon and steelhead seasons ahead of the busier months to come. Fall is the Satsop's signature season, with coho and chum salmon both moving through the system from around September into December, often overlapping to produce some of the best fall fishing in the entire Chehalis basin. Twitching jigs or float fish with a bobber and eggs for Satsop coho. For Chum we recommend a ¼ ounce steelhead jig tipped with a chunk of cured prawn. This is the busiest period on the river, though it still tends to see lighter pressure than bigger-name neighbors like the Wynoochee or Humptulips. Winter shifts the focus to steelhead. The Satsop's winter run generally begins in November and peaks from December through January, with both the East and West Forks offering prime water for pursuing these fish. Because the river is largely free-flowing rather than dam-regulated, water conditions can swing dramatically after storms, so keeping an eye on current Washington river flow data, including the USGS gauge near Satsop, is essential before planning a winter trip. Float fishing with steelhead jigs is a top technique here, however old-school drift fishing with corkies and yarn is another great option. The Satsop River running low and clear during late summer. Best Fishing Spots on the Satsop River Schafer State Park, on the main stem, offers solid bank access and marks a well-known landmark for anglers working this stretch of river. Nearby, a launch point near Decker Creek gives drift boat anglers a way to put in for a float down through some of the river's best water, considered by many the ideal way to experience the full river, though it's worth checking access status before heading out. The West Fork Satsop access area, open year-round, provides another reliable entry point into the system. Early in the salmon season, check out the Satsop River Boat Launch in the lower river, where salmon generally stage, there is ample bank access here. Fishing generally runs from where the Satsop meets the Chehalis near the town of Satsop, all the way upstream to Schafer State Park, giving anglers a good stretch of water to work with depending on conditions and crowding elsewhere. Log jams provide great cover and holding water for salmon during the fall season. Pitch a jig in there! Fishing on the Satsop River Because the Satsop is managed jointly by WDFW and local tribes, and supports a mix of hatchery and wild salmon and steelhead, regulations here change frequently and can dictate exactly where and when anglers are allowed to fish on any given fork. Selective gear rules, including bait restrictions and single-point barbless hooks, commonly apply to coastal salmon and steelhead fisheries in this region, so checking the current WDFW regulations and any emergency rule changes before every trip is essential. Given how quickly this free-flowing river can rise after heavy rain, always verify current conditions before committing to a float or wade. For anglers who don't mind putting in a bit of extra homework in exchange for a quieter, more natural river experience, the Satsop offers some of the most rewarding fall salmon and winter steelhead fishing in the Chehalis basin. Suggested Setup: Okuma SST Ceymar Salmon Spinning Combo
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Fishing the Copalis River
Fishing at the Copalis River Small, unassuming, and easy to overlook on a map, the Copalis River quietly delivers solid fall salmon and winter steelhead fishing on Washington's central coast. It's the kind of river locals love precisely because it doesn't draw the same crowds as its bigger Grays Harbor neighbors. Where is the Copalis River The Copalis River is a coastal stream in Grays Harbor County, flowing through low-lying, forested terrain before reaching the Pacific Ocean near the small community of Copalis Beach, between Ocean Shores and Pacific Beach. It's a modest system, more of a large creek than a major river, with a rural, unhurried character that stands in contrast to the bigger, more heavily managed rivers of the Grays Harbor and Chehalis basin just to the south. The surrounding area is classic Washington coast: mist, dune grass, and easy beach access, making a Copalis fishing trip an easy pairing with a day at the ocean. From Seattle, reaching the Copalis is roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, generally down I-5 and then west on Highway 8 and Highway 12 toward Aberdeen, before heading north on Highway 109 along the coast toward Copalis Beach and Pacific Beach. That's a similar drive time to Grays Harbor and the Humptulips, making it easy to combine a Copalis outing with a stop at one of those nearby fisheries. Copalis River Map What you can catch in the Copalis River The Copalis is a modest but genuine coho and chum river, with a fall salmon season generally running from October through November and a jack salmon fishery open earlier, from July through September, for anglers happy to target smaller, immature fish while releasing full-grown adults. During the main fall window, anglers can typically retain up to two adult salmon per day as part of an overall daily limit, though sockeye and chum must be released, so knowing how to tell the species apart before keeping anything matters. Winter steelhead round out the year, with the season typically running into early spring before closing around the start of March to protect returning fish, and steelhead with a clipped adipose or ventral fin, or a notably short dorsal fin, are generally the ones anglers are permitted to keep. It's a small enough system that it doesn't draw the same numbers of returning fish as the Humptulips or Chehalis, but that also means lighter pressure and a more relaxed, personal style of fishing for anglers willing to seek it out. Coho Salmon push into the Copalis River during September and October. Copalis River Fishing Seasons Spring brings the tail end of the winter steelhead season, generally running until the season closes in early March, after which the river goes quiet ahead of summer. There isn't a dedicated spring fishery here beyond that final steelhead push, so this is mostly a season for scouting the river and confirming current access conditions before the warmer months settle in. Summer is when the Copalis's jack Chinook salmon fishery opens, giving anglers a chance to target these smaller, early-returning salmon while releasing any full-grown adults encountered along the way. It's a lower-key fishery than the fall run, appealing to anglers who enjoy lighter tackle and a more relaxed pace on the water, and it's a good time to explore the river before the main fall salmon season begins. Fall is the Copalis's primary season, with the main salmon fishery generally running from October through November, focused on coho with chum and any remaining sockeye required to be released. This is when the river sees its best activity of the year, as rain events push fresh fish in from the ocean and up into the lower system. Anglers fishing this window can expect a genuine, if modest, coastal coho fishery without the crowds found on bigger nearby rivers. Casting Blue Fox Vibrax Spinners in the lower stretch of the river is the best way to hook into some Copalis Coho. Winter shifts attention to steelhead, with most major coastal steelhead fisheries, including the Copalis, opening in early December and running into the new year before closing around March 1 to protect the tail end of the run. Because the Copalis is a small coastal stream, conditions can change quickly after heavy rain, so keeping an eye on current flow and weather is especially important during these wetter months. Bobber fishing with a steelhead jig can be productive in the river's slow, meandering reaches. The Copalis River meanders slowly before entering the Pacific Ocean near Copalis Beach. Best Fishing Spots on the Copalis River Access on the Copalis is centered around the lower river near Copalis Beach, where Highway 109 crosses close to the water and provides convenient bank access not far from the coast. A beach walk at Griffiths-Priday State Park will take you all the way to the mouth of the river. Because the river is relatively short and modest in size compared to its Grays Harbor neighbors, most fishing here happens from the bank rather than by boat, with anglers working the stretch between the highway crossing and the river's mouth. The tidal lower section near the ocean is worth paying attention to as well, since fresh salmon and steelhead often stage there before pushing upstream after a good rain. Local knowledge goes a long way on a smaller system like this, and a short walk beyond the most obvious pullouts can be enough to find quieter water. Fishing on the Copalis River Because the Copalis is one of several central coast rivers grouped together under WDFW's coastal fishing regulations, along with the Chehalis, Hoquiam, Humptulips, Satsop, Skookumchuck, Wishkah, and Wynoochee, rules and season dates can shift from year to year, so checking the current WDFW regulations or the Fish Washington app before heading out is essential. Selective gear rules and barbless hook requirements are standard on this stretch of coast, and daily limits and minimum size requirements can differ slightly depending on the time of year, so it's worth confirming the specifics before keeping any fish. Because the river is small and rain-driven, conditions can shift quickly, so pairing a Copalis trip with a broader coastal itinerary, rather than planning around it alone, is generally the smarter approach. For anglers who appreciate a smaller, less-pressured river where a little local knowledge goes further than crowds of competition, the Copalis offers an easy, low-key coastal fishing trip well worth adding to a Grays Harbor-area itinerary. Suggested Setup: Okuma SST Ceymar Salmon Spinning Combo
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