The state Department of Fish and Wildlife is accepting public comments on digging days, catch limits and other management options for the upcoming razor clam season.
Suggestions for the 2012-13 season — tentatively set to begin in mid-October — can be sent via email to razorclams@dfw.wa.gov or by postal mail to: RazorClams, 48 Devonshire Rd., Montesano, WA 98563.
Comments regarding fall digging opportunities must be received by Oct. 9, said Dan Ayres, Fish & Wildlife coastal shellfish manager.
Management options for the upcoming razor clam season are available at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/shellfish/razorclams/seasons_set.html.
The 2011-12 razor clam season ended May 7, with a total of 2.5 million clams harvested in 195,000 digger trips, the lowest harvest and effort in the last 12 years, Ayres said. He said the drop mirrors a decline in clam numbers, due to the natural cycle of coastal razor-clam populations.
However, WDFW’s 2012 stock assessment shows strong increases in the number of harvestable size clams on all ocean beaches, except Kalaloch.
“We are looking forward to a really great season,” Ayres said.
