Oyster & Clam ShinDIG
Taste two kinds of raw oysters from a local farm, learn to shuck, then dig clams and harvest oysters on a Hood Canal beach. You take home up to 18 shucked oysters and 40 clams.
What you will do
- Taste two kinds of raw oysters from a local shellfish farmer
- Learn quick, easy and safe shucking
- Find, dig, shuck and bag your own oysters and clams
- Learn the best harvest times, permit rules, size and quantity limits
- Know which clams to leave behind and which to dig
- Take home up to 18 oysters and 40 clams
Included
- All necessary equipment, supplies and group fishing license
- Two kinds of shucked raw oysters from a local shellfish farm
- Non-alcoholic beverages
- A bucket of shellfish to take home: up to 18 shucked oysters and 40 clams
- A digital photo album from your beach day
Bring with you
- Layers, since the beach is typically cooler and windier
- Knee-length rubber boots (rentals available for $10 a pair)
- A Discover Pass for parking ($11.50 a day)
- A cooler with ice, if you did not buy one
From past days out
Good to know before you book
Anything else, call or text and a person answers.
Can I eat the oysters raw right off the beach?
If you are a big fan of raw oysters, book an experience in April or May. The WA Department of Health advises that all shellfish recreationally harvested from May to September should be cooked thoroughly to avoid illness from Vibriosis.
Where does it take place?
On Hood Canal, usually in Brinnon, Belfair or Lilliwaup. The venue and start time depend on the tide schedule and on when and where the Department of Fish and Wildlife allows shellfish harvesting. The exact location is in your confirmation email.
Can children come?
The minimum age is 13. Kids enjoy the beach and the digging, but the beach is filled with sharp oyster shells, so consider whether the experience suits your family.
Do I really need rubber boots?
Rubber boots keep your feet dry, and the taller the boots, the farther out you can go to find the freshest shellfish. Shin-height boots work fine. We rent boots for $10 a pair; select your size during checkout.
What do I take home?
Up to 18 shucked oysters and 40 clams, a $70 value. Oyster shells cannot be removed from the beach. You get a container for the oysters and a net bag for the clams. If you did not buy a cooler, bring your own with ice.
What if it rains?
The experience runs in light rain or shine. If we have to cancel because of inclement weather, you receive a full refund.
What is the cancellation policy?
We offer cancellation insurance at the time of purchase, which lets you cancel up to 72 hours before the event. Otherwise sales are final, but you can send someone else in your place.
Is there parking, and does it cost anything?
You need a Discover Pass to park. It is $11.50 for a day pass, available in advance or on arrival.
Who sets the date and start time?
Availability, location and start time are dictated by the tide schedule and the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s regulations. If your date is sold out or not listed, contact us about a private event.
Can I book a private group?
Yes. We have hosted private events for up to 100 guests. The booking calendar offers a private option for up to 12 guests. For a different date or time, or a larger group, contact us.
Pick your date
Groups are small and the season is short. The live calendar shows every open seat.
From people who came on this one
Our teens couldn't get over how fun it was to dig for clams. They loved learning the secret 'tells' for finding them and then picking the biggest ones to bring home. And with the pro tips we learned (and safety gear!), they even shucked oysters without hurting themselves! What a great way to get them excited to be outside in nature, while indulging in a constant treasure hunt.
My husband is a raw oyster fanatic! This has been a bucket list experience for our family for forever. It was unbelievable to see the thousands of oysters on the beach as far as the eye could see.
Rain or shine, Forage Seattle is the perfect way to get your shellfish fix! With their expertly planned excursion, we were totally prepared for the wet weather. They hooked us up with waterproof gear and even set up canopies to keep us cozy and dry. Don't let a little drizzle keep you from this amazing adventure!
Even though I'm a native Washingtonian, I'm embarrassed to admit that I'd never actually gone shellfish gathering before. I was always afraid I'd end up with a mouth full of sand or some other unsavory surprise! Forage Seattle took all the guesswork out of it and made it a breeze to have a safe and delicious experience. Now I'm counting down the days until I can go foraging for chanterelles with them this Fall!