Features: Gaper clams have large "neck" housing the two siphons that protrude above the substrate surface when feeding. Protective leathery plates are found just below the siphon tips and feel rough to the touch. Gapers are unable to retract‌ their neck entirely into the shell, producing a "gape" in the shell. It is common for algae to grow on their necks and gaper pea crabs to dwell inside the shell with the gaper clam.‌

Habitat: Gapers can be found in high salinity sandy and/or muddy areas in most of Oregon's larger estuaries. Tillamook, Netarts, Yaquina, and Coos‌ are favorite bays of these trophy size clams. Be prepared to dig 1-2 feet to claim this prize. 

Technique: Dig for gaper clams with a shovel. A shrimp gun can also be used to take some of the work out of digging. As you pump with the gun, water will be pulled into the hole and the sediment will become liquidy. They have a "show" (burrow hole) a bit larger than a quarter, making them easily identifiable to an experienced eye. You know it is a gaper if you test the hole with your finger and feel the siphon retract.

Learn more here before getting started clamming. ‌

See Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for information on the daily catch limits for bay clams.

How to dig for gapers (video)