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. It is common for algae to grow on their neck as well. Gapers are unable to retrack their neck entirely into the shell, producing a "gape" in the shell. In addition, gaper pea crabs, Pinnixa faba often inhabit gaper clams.

Habitat: Gapers can be found in high salinity sandy and/or muddy areas in most of Oregons larger estuaries. Coos, Tillamook, Netarts, and Yaquina are favorite bays of these trophy size clams. Be prepred to dig 12-32 inches to claim this prize. 

Technique: Dig for gaper clams with a shovel. You can also use a shrimp gun to use the water in a hole you start to create a slurry with the sediment and take some of the work out of the dig. They have an oblong "show" (burrow hole) a bit larger than a quarter, making them easily identified to an experienced eye. Mud shrimp burrow holes are commonly mistaken for gaper shows. You know it is a gaper if you test the hole with your finger and feel the siphon retract.

How to dig for gapers (video)