How to Dig for Littleneck Clams

Littleneck clams can be either native to North America or they can be another species called the Manila littleneck. Both of these species are suitable for a steamed clam dish and they can also form ingredients for chowders or to make the base of a sauce. These creatures live under the tideline, and are most accessible at low tide. Digging for littleneck clams is easy, as they reside only a few inches from the surface of the sand.

Things You'll Need

  • State license for recreational harvesting
  • Tide tables
  • Shovel
  • Carrier bag
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Check the local tide tables for information on when the tide will be lowest in the particular area where you plan to harvest the clams. Manila littlenecks do not live in the lower half of the tideline. Native littlenecks tend to live closer to the sea, below the half-tide mark.

    • 2

      Buy a recreational shellfish harvest license from your state if regulations require it. You can obtain one of these from the department that handles fish and wildlife procedures. The license permits you to take a certain amount of clams from the coastline.

    • 3

      Bring the license with you when you visit the shoreline. Ensure that each person over the age of 14 has a license if they are carrying clams or helping you dig for them. Check with state regulations as the age requirements may vary.

    • 4

      Search the surface of the coast below the high tide line for small indentations that the underground clams produce. Native littlenecks generally live under gravelly mud in sheltered bays, whereas Manila littlenecks can live under sand, gravel and mud.

    • 5

      Dig up the first 3 inches of the surface above the indentation. Manila littlenecks live only in the top 4 inches of ground, and native littlenecks inhabit the area from 4 to 6 inches down.

    • 6

      Scoop out the remaining sand or mud with your hands. The shovel may damage the shells of the clams and make them unsuitable to eat; dig with your hands to prevent this.

    • 7

      Pick out the clams and then replace the disturbed soil over the hole. This allows other clams in the area to reach the surface more easily than if you leave a tall pile of mud at the side of the digging area.

    • 8

      Return any excess harvest to the harvest location immediately. Littlenecks can dig back down without difficulty. Cover the returned clams over with the disturbed soil.