Marine Zone

Where to bay clam in Oregon

In nearly every Oregon estuary, some species of bay clams can be found. However, abundances and variety of species is different for each bay depending on a number of factors. Size and shape of the bay are the most critical factors.
Tidal exchange, salinity, species ranges, and substrates also weigh heavily.

This map outlines areas that are most commonly accessed by recreational diggers. Before heading out, be sure to have your shellfish license, a copy of the regulations (either paper or online), and check the tides.

For your safety, call the Oregon Department of Agriculture Shellfish Safety Hotline before harvesting any shellfish at 1-800-448-2474 or check their website.

Go to our How to bay clam and How to razor clam articles to learn digging techniques that will increase your chances of success!

Summary of bay clam availability by area:

An image of the Oregon coast with bay clamming sites labeled

Necanicum Bay: softshells, purple varnish
Nehalem Bay: softshells, purple varnish
Tillamook Bay: gapers, butters, cockles, littlenecks, softshells, purple varnish
Netarts Bay: gapers, butters, cockles, littlenecks, softshells, purple varnish
Nestucca Bay: softshells, purple varnish
Siletz Bay: softshells, purple varnish
Yaquina Bay: gapers, butters, cockles, littlenecks, softshells, purple varnish
Alsea Bay: cockles, softshells, purple varnish
Siuslaw River: gapers, cockles, softshells
Umpqua River: gapers, softshells
Coos Bay: gapers, butters, cockles, littlenecks, softshells
Coquille River: softshells
Chetco and Rogue River basins have high freshwater influence, and therefore no accessible bay clams. In some of the south coast's rocky nearshore areas, littleneck and butter clams can be found under rocks and amongst gravel. Due to the tough terrain, very few clammers harvest on the rocky nearshore of the south coast.