Clamming on a Low Tide: A Starter Guide
Clamming rewards patience and good timing. The best digging happens on the lowest tides of the month, when beds that are normally underwater are briefly exposed.
Target the lowest tides
Clammers want the most extreme lows — often minus tides. TideTime's Clamming preset filters for tides around half a foot or lower.
These big lows cluster around new and full moons, so scan a full month to find the standout days.
Time your dig
Head out an hour or two before the low so you have the widest exposed flat and time to work before the water returns.
Bring a clam gun or shovel, a bucket, and boots — the flats are soft and cold.
Licenses and limits
Most states require a shellfish license and enforce size and bag limits and seasonal closures for safety (including biotoxin closures).
Always check your state's current regulations and closure notices before you dig.