Oyster seasons to close on some Hood Canal beaches

August 28, 2020

Action: Close oyster harvest.

Effective date: Sept. 1, 2020 until further notice.

Species affected: Oysters

Locations: Belfair State Park, Potlatch State Park, Potlach DNR, and Twanoh State Park

Reason for action: Oyster seasons will close due to continued closed season clam harvest on these beaches.

Managers are continuing to report record-setting participation as Washingtonians seek adventures closer to home. Despite clam season closure at these sites earlier in August, managers continue to see consistently high numbers of people harvesting clams.

Additional information: Ongoing closed season harvest of clams will affect harvest opportunity for the 2021 season for these beaches.

While continued high participation may require additional management actions this year, many beaches remain open across the state. WDFW will continue to monitor harvest levels across Puget Sound and adjust seasons as necessary.

Harvesters can find up-to-date information on seasons and shellfish safety information on Washington's Shellfish Safety Map webpage; https://fortress.wa.gov/doh/biotoxin/biotoxin.html.

Information contact: Camille Speck, 360-302-3030 x313; WDFW shellfish hotline,1-866-880-5431

Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license, appropriate to the fishery. Check the WDFW "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet for details on definitions and regulations. Fishing rules are subject to change. Visit wdfw.wa.gov/fishing-hotlines to find a list of mobile, web, print, or customer service phone options for the latest rule information.

Request this information in an alternative format or language at wdfw.wa.gov/accessibility/requests-accommodation, 833-885-1012, TTY (711), or CivilRightsTeam@dfw.wa.gov.