Goose University: Clamming 101

How to Clam on Cape Cod: A Beginners Guide

Cape Cod, with its picturesque coastal landscapes and rich maritime heritage, offers an unparalleled clam digging experience. Whether you’re a seasoned shellfish hunter or a curious novice, clamming on Cape Cod is a rewarding and enjoyable activity. Here’s your guide to ensuring a successful clam digging adventure. We at the Goose Hummock stock everything you need to get your limit of clams.

1. Understand the Regulations

Before you grab your rake and bucket, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the local clamming regulations. Each town on Cape Cod may have its own rules regarding clam harvesting, including:

Permits: Most towns require a shellfish permit, which can be obtained from local town offices or harbormasters.
Orleans License , Eastham License , Chatham License, Brewster License
Limits: There are often limits on the quantity of clams you can harvest per day. Be sure to adhere to these limits to help sustain the clam population.
Seasons: Clamming seasons may vary. Verify the current season and any temporary closures.

2. Choose the Right Time

Timing is everything in clamming. The best times to dig are:

Low Tide: Clams are easier to find when the tide is low, exposing the sandy or muddy beds where they lie.
Early Morning: For optimal conditions and to avoid crowds, aim to start clamming early in the morning.
Cape Cod Tide Charts here

3. Gather Your Gear

To get started, you'll need the following equipment:

Clam Rake: A long-handled rake with flat, wide tines is ideal for sifting through the sand or mud to locate clams(quahogs).
Bucket or Basket: A sturdy container to collect and transport your clams.
Trowel or Shovel: A small hand trowel or shovel can help with digging in particularly tough areas.(steamers)
Waders or hip waders: Waterproof footwear will keep your feet dry and comfortable, especially if you’re wading in the shallows.
Clam Guage- comes in metal or plastic, the guage we sell at Goose Hummock

4. Find the Best Spots

As luck would have it, when you sign up for your town clamming license, they will give you a map of open and closed clamming areas. Unlike rod and reel fishing, you don't need decades worth of knowledge or chase fishing reports to find clams.

Clams typically reside in sandy or muddy substrates. Here are some tips for finding the best clamming locations:

Look for Signs: Signs of clams include small, conical holes or dimples in the sand. These are often indicators of buried clams.
Consult Local Knowledge: Ask local fishermen or shellfish harvesters for advice on productive areas. They can offer invaluable insights based on recent conditions.

5. Master the Technique

Here’s a step-by-step guide to digging for clams:

Spot a Hole: Use your rake to probe the sand where you see signs of clam activity.
Rake Gently: Use the rake to sift through the sand or mud, gently turning it to expose clams without damaging them.
Dig Carefully: When you find a clam, use your hands or a small trowel to dig around it, being careful not to break the shell.
Collect: Place the clams in your bucket or basket. Be mindful of size limits and only keep clams that meet the minimum size requirements.

6. Clean and Prepare Your Clams

After harvesting, it’s important to clean your clams to ensure they’re safe to eat:

Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse your clams in cold water to remove sand and grit.
Purge: Place clams in a bowl of cold water with a bit of salt for about 20 minutes. This helps them expel any remaining sand.
Scrub: Use a brush to scrub the shells to remove any remaining dirt.

7. Cooking Your Clams

Freshly harvested clams can be prepared in various delicious ways. Some popular methods include:

Steaming: Place clams in a pot with a small amount of water and steam until they open. Discard any that remain closed.
Clam Chowder: A classic Cape Cod dish, clam chowder combines clams with cream, potatoes, onions, and seasonings.
Grilling: For a smoky flavor, grill clams on the barbecue. Serve them with a squeeze of lemon and melted butter.

8. Respect the Environment

When clamming, it’s essential to respect the natural environment:

Leave No Trace: Avoid disturbing the habitat more than necessary. Refill any holes you dig and take all trash with you.
Practice Sustainable Harvesting: Follow all local regulations to help maintain healthy clam populations for future generations.

Clamming on Cape Cod is more than just a means to gather fresh seafood; it's a cherished local tradition that connects you with the region’s maritime heritage. By following these tips and respecting local guidelines, you can enjoy a rewarding and sustainable clamming experience. So gear up, head out, and immerse yourself in the timeless joy of clamming on the beautiful shores of Cape Cod.

Cape Cod Tide Charts