Clamming is a popular activity in California, as the states coastline provides ample opportunity to collect these delicious shellfish. Sam's Chowder House: Must try!! Says owner Betsy del Fierro The traditional tomato base recipe is influenced by the Italian, Portuguese, and Mexican cultural flavorings, which reflects the cooking backgrounds of our kitchen staff who have all collaborated over the years on this recipe. In a large pot, heat up olive oil and pour in the bacon, onion, chili flakes, and minced garlic. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Our favorite spot is just south of Gaffney Point right up to where theres seaweed. Nonetheless, the majority of digging takes place between April and September. 45 minutes. It includes a handful of cute coastal towns and, of course, the city of Half Moon Bay itself. During low tide events, clams are typically thrown between November and April. Half Moon Bay is a popular spot for clamming, and there are also good areas to check out in San Francisco and San Mateo County. Be Proactive. Razor clams are closed July 15 to Sept. 30 north of Tillamook Head (Clatsop County). Cockles are especially prolific in Tomales Bay, Half Moon Bay and the Ano Nuevo Area (dont dig in the state reserve here). Lets dive in! Header illustrations by Jane Kim, InkDwell. They make a delicious side dish for a meal or can be used to make a chowder. Finding clams can be an ideal way to spend an afternoon in the sun. Read This First, Can You Eat Freshwater Bass? To ensure that the clams they collect are at least 5 inches in diameter in Santa Cruz County and northwards, as well as 412 inches in any part of the state, the clams must be accompanied by a valid fishing license and an accurate measuring tool. For many years the larger pier, the Johnson Pier, was open to fisherman and heavily used. It is estimated that 25 razor clam digs will be conducted along the coast in March and April. I hope there is balance between the overgrown and the over-gathering during season shifts. Half Moon Bay Brewing Company. Free cancellation. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Open Mon. Whatever happens, I hope the eco system remain in good balance. We hope that you continue to enjoy our free content. To protect this ecosystem, we need to implement new restrictions on public shellfish collection. You can check theBodega Bay tide schedule on this website.https://fa159a61f7ed9eb2454c831ae87d1a6b.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html. "Half Moon Bay" is a great place to set gear away from the current. Clam cysts can grow to be quite large, preventing them from reproducing. When we saw the crowd, we had a feeling we werent going to get as much as we expected.. The tentative dates are as follows: March 1, 5:50 p.m., at Long Beach, Twin Harbors, and Mocrocks; March 2, 9:50 a.m., at Twin Harbors, and Mocrocks; and March 3, 9:50 a.m March 16, 6:55 PM; a height of 0.1 feet. It is illegal for a clammer to possess, possess, keep, and sell any number of gaper clams from any location at any one time. Thanks and Good luck Catching those Clams! Pacific littleneck clams are found all along the coast of California. Where is Best Spot for Clamming in Bodega Bay? You should be able to find them in the region we highlighted above, as well as other parts of Bodega + Tamales. You should dig down about 6 inches. Dock crabbing can be found year-round from the Port docks. This is when the ocean rolls back to expose the prime clam beds. They live on sandy beaches in the intertidal zone, with depths ranging from 9 to 30 meters (30 feet). Web design by Crucial Creative. that is degrading to another person. Initially, we didn't really like it. Port Orford: The oldest town on the Oregon coast and the most westerly in the 48 states. You can fish for crab, buy directly from fishermen or indulge in crab specials at local restaurants. 4210 North Cabrillo Highway, (650) 712-0245, At Via Uno,indulge in Polpette di Granchio: Italian crab cakes with fresh crab meat, herbs, and spices served with a wasabi mayonnaise aioli, Fritelle di Granchio: fresh crab fritters served with a spicy gazpacho chutney, Tagliolini al Granchio: tagliolini pasta with fresh crab in a light champagne cream sauce with lemon zest, and Ravioli di Granchio: squid ink ravioli filled with fresh crab, potatoes, and parsley in a light Champagne cream sauce with lemon zest. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph. If youre looking to catch razor clams in the Bay Area, there are a few spots you can check out. They are found in sandy mud and near rocks and reefs, about 6 inches below the surface. Most of Umpqua's clam beds can be accessed by only boat. Once you find a good spot, start digging. Half Moon Bay is a popular spot for clamming, and there are also good areas to check out in San Francisco and San Mateo County. I created this blog because of my love for seafood and my desire to share that love with others. With a high of about 70, Half Moon Bay is going to be about 20 to 30 cooler than most parts of the Bay Area today. More information can be found at the California Department Parks and Recreation website. Another way to clean clams is to freeze them. Half Moon Bay restaurants pride themselves on serving the freshest local Dungeness crab. It's located just south of Half Moon Bay state beach. Flying Fish Bar and Grill. Youll have a ball. Do I need buy the parking passed be fore I go? Be wary of navigational channel when setting gear. If youre in the water in the same location where I mentioned above, youll need to turn around and look for Flint on the shore and the beach. When digging in tidal areas near rocks and reefs, keep a bucket or digging tool ready, and look for these clams near rocks and reefs. Pacific razor clams can be found . Half Moon Bay. Please check the sport fishing e-regulationsMarine Zone for all the shellfishing limits and laws. At Elkhorn Slough clammers can be seen digging in the area east of Hwy. We are lucky to have the best Dungeness crab in America right off of our coast, and love showcasing its sweet, delicious flavor in a variety of Italian dishes." There are many different types of clams that can be found in Orange County, CA. He and other chefs had heard about the area by word of mouth. If you dont have a fishing license while on the road, you can still get your fill of clams by purchasing a license at a park or tidelands where youre digging. Bay Nature connects the people of the San Francisco Bay Area to our natural world and motivates people to solve problems with nature in mind. Donate. 15. Hello! There was a problem saving your notification. They did not have all of the empanadas that I wanted to try available hence the 4 stars. Hi Chris! A person may catch up to three razor clams per day, and the catch must be placed immediately in a container. San Francisco Bay. The wardens checked to make sure every harvester had a day license and weighed their buckets. Amazingly fresh empanadas. At sunrise and sunset, the tide is set 1/2 hour before sunrise and 1/2 hour after sunset. What I have read and seen is that there are ONLY ten Cabanas for rent on Half Moon Cay for well over $200 and can accomidate ONLY four people. The container should be kept in its original packaging for three to four days. Coos Bay:Coos Bay is Oregons largest bay. Razor Clams are abundant along the Washington Coast. . person will not be tolerated. When you go to these areas at low tide, look for other clams. FRESH Home Baked Goods everyday! California razor clams are well-known to be caught on Clam Beach. 83 Minna St, San Francisco, CA, United States, California, Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress, The Best Lights To Use For Razor Clamming At Night, Mussels: A Safe Delicacy During Breastfeeding, Both Of These Muscles Work Together To Create The Movement Of The Jaw, Why Do Fresh Water Clams Have White Spots, 5 Tips To Keep Your Pet Calm During A Severe Storm. Half Moon Bay 5. Some of these are small burying crustaceans, others are clams. When you go clamming, you will need a shovel and a bucket. The common name is derived from a Native American word meaning "dig deep". Good clamming grounds include Humboldt Bay, Tomales Bay, Bodega Bay, Half Moon Bay and Elkhorn Slough ( at Moss Landing ). 8. Grays Harbor and Willapa Bay are shallow embayments on the outer coast of Washington state. Finding clams is a difficult first quest or mission in New World. 0. Whatever location you decide to go clamming in California, youll be sure to have a fun and rewarding day. "To truly experience Island Beach, try to take advantage of everything the park has to offer," said Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Bob Martin. If you fill your bucket with seawater, you will be able to live on razor clams for the next few days, which is why they should be cooked right away. Razor clams are filter feeders that can be found burrowed on sheltered beaches in the intertidal zones lower sections. If youre going to eat Razor Clams, its best to just eat what you need. To ensure that the area is as clean as possible, salt water beaches are the most convenient places to catch them. Website: The Conservatory. When you see water erupting from the fountain as you walk across the Razorfish area, it is a sign that you are in a Razorfish area. Shoot us a note in the comments below! by Harley Gutirrez | Feb 21, 2023 | Clams. This means that during the opening process, a crack can easily appear. 11. Mercury News readers choose both Sam's New England, and Manhattan style clam chowders as the "Best Bay Area Clam Chowder" Sam's voted "BEST SEAFOOD" by the San Francisco Bay Area A-List It was a blast to know they are abundant. Pismo clams are a species of saltwater clam, native to the west coast of North America. Two classes of clam are legal to sport fish in California: The geoduck is an important sport and commercial species in Washington state and British Columbia. Wander around Half Moon Bay Main Street. Visit the ODFW's agency site. Ocean swales at 4 feet or less, with a wave frequency of 15 seconds or more, are ideal. The street isn't too long, but it's a great place to stop for an hour or two to grab lunch or dinner in between activities or beach lounging. The best time to go clamming is during the low tide, when the water is shallow and the clams are easier to find. The license can be obtained from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and costs $7.50 for residents and $22.50 for non-residents. - See 2,060 traveller reviews, 864 candid photos, and great deals for Half Moon Bay, CA, at Tripadvisor. July 16, 2011. Even if you have never ridden a horse before you can try this activity on Half Moon Cay. They differ by location and species. connatre la date du jour d'arafat 2023 / 1444 en Half Moon Bay California United States of America Fishermen must also have a valid fishing license as well as an accurate (rigid) measuring device. People have good intentions. The areas near Bandon Marsh, National Wildlife refuge tend to be the most popular. Digging with garden shoes, shovels, cultivators, clam shovels, culling gauge, clam guns or clam hooks. Here's how a few of the Coastside's restaurants serve up an old classic. We also bring several water bottles for hydration and washing off our equipment when were done. Northern California clammers are a type of clam that is found in the northern part of California. In addition to California, Alaska, Oregon, and Washington, these states are home to razor clams. However, in the recent year or two, people are creating large sand holes and digging clams out without limits with some of the same people come on consecutive days. If you dig for clams without a fork, you must bury them two inches deep in the sand. The restaurant is open from Monday to Thursday and Sunday, from 11am-8:30pm, and from 11:0am-9:00pm during Fridays and Saturdays. Bead Fishing for Salmon: Better Than Roe? The most common type of clam is the Pacific razor clam. It is critical to store them properly so that they do not become soggy and are ready to eat in no time. Littlenecks, chiones, and hardshell cockles including thinshelled littleneck, common littleneck, Japanese littleneck, roughsided littleneck, smooth chione, wavy chione, and banded chiones: Once youve walked out on to the sand flats you can start hunting for clams. They are found at Elkhorn Slough, Tomales and Bodega Bays. Freshwater Clams: Be sure to also check theCalifornia Fishing Regulations pagefor any warnings or restrictions on species you cant eat in Northern California. Let's go! 16. Posted March 16, 2015. Furthermore, the clams are difficult to harvest because they cannot be raked up, and each one is caught by hand. Make certain youre looking at the larger hole visible next to a quarter. Adventure Tours. 12.7 mi. This border land has preoccupied local environmentalists who worry the area is being overrun by visitors who could threaten the marine ecosystem at Pillar Point and the surrounding areas. Outdoor team building activities, A sunset over the ocean while youre walking on the beach with your sweetheart is high on the list of those searching for romantic experiences. Here are some of the best spots to go clamming in California: 1. Senior Coastsiders in Half Moon Bay invited a distinguished guest to its daily lunch service. Where can I go clamming in the bay area? The Pacifica Rock 'N' Roll Flea Market returns on Sunday, combining live bands, craft beer a, Government body: Coastside County Water District, A retired judge hired by San Mateo County has concluded her investigation into the San Mateo, Government body: Sewer Authority Mid-coastside, After a monthslong search, Pacifica has a new police chief. Beachgoers foraging and fishing for sea life during low tide at Pillar Point Reef on Friday, Jan. 8, 2021. San Francisco Bay Air Tour. If you know where to look and put in a little effort, youll be rewarded with a delicious seafood meal that requires little cooking knowledge. Check out the picture below for more details. You can get one here: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Licensing. Good areas tend to be limited to the first two miles of the river. But as the wave height increases to 10 feet, clamming gets proportionately worse and can even become dangerous. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph.. It is only found in razor clams, and it is known to cause serious damage to the reproductive system of the clams. Dock crabbing access points are found in Empire and Charleston. In order to hunt razor clams, you can go fishing on the first Saturday in October and last Saturday in April. We love toasting some french bread to dip in the sauce too. The best time to go clamming is during low tide. Softshell clams are abundant throughout Umpqua Bay, also they tend to be very large in size compared to other bays. Tomales Bay 2. Be aware of clamming regulations. There was an error processing your request. The best places to find Pacific littlenecks are Bodega and Tomales bays, in Los Angeles and southern Orange counties, and Malibu Point. Since it takes a decent amount of time, we recommend beginning the process as soon as you leave Bodega Bay. Clamming in Bodega Bay is a great activity for both novice Bay Area hunter-gatherers and salty veterans. Where do you recommend finding littleneck clams? Razor clams can be dug at the North Jetty of the Umpqua, though it's a long drive downSparrow Park Rd. A trip to Californias beautiful coastline can be enjoyable if you enjoy a little coastal digging. US Harbors lists when the low and high tides occur for that area. One of the advantages of razor clams is that they have a brittle shell, as opposed to littlenecks. If you dont go the waterproof route, be sure to bring along a change of clothing. When digging Pismo clams, it is critical to rebury them two inches deep if they are small. Ocean (boat) crabbing areas are easily accessible. accounts, the history behind an article. It's typically Half Moon Bay and the fish is finished with our very garlicy garlic bread on top." 401 Main Street, (650) 726-4444 NAVIO at THE RITZ-CARLTON, HALF MOON BAY Chef de Cuisine Jason Pringle will feature once again his Spaghetti Chitarra with Dungeness crab, fennel, saffron. Taking advantage of the negative -1.5ft tide to dig up some delicious clams in Half Moon Bay. Its also a good idea to have an accurate measuring device on hand to avoid any rules being broken. It has the same wide sand beach and coastal trail access with the added bonus of being dog friendly. Overcooking of any clam should be avoided to prevent toughness. We recommend going fishing during the summer and fall months for salmon and other species. Little Neck clams tend to live close to the surface, so you wont have to dig very deep to find them. The following dates are subject to change: (a) Open season is scheduled for September 1 through April 30 in Santa Cruz and Monterey counties. Youre in the right spot. (800) 720-6339. During this period a tide chart is all that is needed to tell you when to go. Beaches. Commercial fishermen with valid daily written order from dealer or restaurant may possess up to the number specified on order in Districts 8 and 9 (FGC 8342). Thank you for reading! Clams can be found in a variety of environments, including sand, mud, and even rocky areas, but I prefer areas with a sandy bottom. You have permission to edit this article. Low 48F. This means that they are not often found in rocky areas or beaches with a lot of seaweed. Some of these species are commonly found throughout large areas, while others may be confined to. We viewed it as a throw away experience on most Bahamas cruises. The best way to get sand out of clam is to keep them in saltwater for two or three days. On the majority of the time, youll only need to go to Flint if you want to explore all that it has to offer. Clams may be taken commercially between September 1 and April 30 in Districts 8, 9, and 17 and at any time in all other districts, except littlenecks, chiones and hard-shell cockles may only be taken in Marin County between September 1 and March 31 (FGC 8340, 8341). Tomales Bay clammers have immense areas to work, but the western shoreline in Tomales Bay State Park is a favorite. *. Were even including Finns favorite steamed clam recipe at the end. When clamming, be sure to bring a shovel and a bucket, and to wear gloves and boots to protect yourself from the elements. Best completed. Most of Umpqua's clam beds can be accessed by only boat. Don't Threaten. But Rosenthal admitted he was surprised with their catch. One man from San Francisco who requested that his name not be printed because he inadvertently committed a crime by harvesting urchins within the marine reserve said he was aware that there was a boundary. The best time to go clamming in Bodega Bay (or anywhere, for that matter) is at the lowest morning tide. Clamming is a great activity to do in southern California because there are many different beaches to choose from. V. parahaemolyticus was found far more frequently in local oysters and was a source of foodborne illness. When the tide is low, razor clams emerge from their burrows just before it leaves soft sand behind, and dimples or shows appear above them where the clams have dug downward. #39. Half Moon Bay, California is where we go to when we want the best clam chowder. 1. Pacific littleneck clams can be found all along the coast of California. Bays, beaches, estuaries, tide pools, piers and jetties are open for crabbing all year, 24 hours per day. Beaches. General rule of thumb is April through September! Shellfish warnings have been issued in the following counties in the Bay Area: San Mateo, Santa Clara, Alameda,Contra Costa, Marin, Monterey, and San Francisco. Clam haulers haul their catch in five-gallon buckets filled with saltwater from the ocean. Watch. Youll most likely find. Diggers digging for razor clams at open coastal beaches are allowed to take 15 razor clams per day, with the first 15 of those taken regardless of size or condition. The type of clams that are found depend on where you dig. Clamming in Northern California is an excellent option because there are numerous sandy beaches with moderate to heavy surf where razor clams can be found feeding. Even though it may be fun for families to collect mussels, sea snails and urchins, when we live in a densely populated area as we do, too many families having "fun" can damage the environment. Partly cloudy skies early will give way to cloudy skies late. Receive an alert on road closures, about schools or other public announcements related to closed facilities or cancelled events, etc. Good clamming grounds include Humboldt Bay, Tomales Bay, Bodega Bay, Half Moon Bay and Elkhorn Slough (at Moss Landing). No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Nope! Unfortunately, Im out of town on vacation best of luck with your outing! However, he believed he was still in the allowable zone. In general, the best times to catch clams are in the first few weeks of summer, when the clams are at their best, and in the middle of July and August, when the clams are spawning. Walk on to the sand flats toward the water. Just north of an invisible, unmarked boundary that marks the end of the Pillar Point beach begins what the California Department of Fish and Wildlife designated as the Pillar Point State Marine Conservation Area, where nothing except Dungeness crab and squid can be taken. Bait Collection and Tips Lugworms Sandeels and Mussels, How To Fish For Salmon (in the Ocean) 2 of 2, How to Catch Salmon (in the Ocean) 1 of 2, https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=62846. Do you need this information in an alternative format or language? Begin digging with your large clamming/gardening shovel. Cali, San Mateo County residents with losses from the storms that began in late. Heres a step by step guide on what to do. Salem, OR 97302 Half Moon Bay, CA - Pillar Point RV Park - Digging For Geoduck! The Best Coho Salmon Lures for Trolling, Jigging, & More! Sign In. Clamming inBodega Bayis a great activity for both novice Bay Area hunter-gatherers and salty veterans. The meat of these clams is considered to be very tasty, and they are often used in soups and chowders. They can be found in sandy mud about 6 inches beneath the surface, near rocks and reefs. And a walk further north along the coastline the state conservation area turns into the Montara State Marine Reserve and that overlaps with the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, where take of anything kind is absolutely not allowed. Bodega Bay 3. If youre a California resident you can buy a yearly license or if not you can get a daily one. There are several options for fresh seafood, but unfortunately, finding one is a time-consuming process. Because the Pacific razor clams live on plankton and suspended food in the water, they are not concerned about the location of their nests. He and his friend had carefully researched the area, but, despite their attempt, they were surprised to have gotten it wrong. There is a population of razor clams on Bailey Beach. Clamming is also a great outdoor activity for kids, especially young ones who enjoy digging and getting a little dirty. In addition to providing information, Anchor & Hope also provides delicious seafood recipes that are easy to follow. To find clams, look for areas where the water is shallow and there is sand. Sam's featured in "How To Spend A Weekend In Half Moon Bay" Sam's named to Open Table TOP 100 restaurants in America for Al Fresco dining. Come stay cool on the coast with us! Good luck! One note for fishing this time of year (December/winter): its not very good. Clam Beach in Humboldt County and beaches near Crescent City are two good spots to catch razor clams in northern California. and butter clams (Saxidomus sp. We hope after reading this article youre set up for success and ready to catch some Northern California clams of your own. Before you harvest and consume clams, always read the health warning label. During the winter, these methods are still used, but with extreme caution. Half Moon Bay State Beach is the large stretch of sandy coastline that encompasses several other named beaches, including Francis Beach (which has campgrounds), Venice Beach, Dunes Beach, and many more. When is the Best Time to Go Clamming in Bodega Bay? Clams and Other Mollusks: You can crab by boat, dock, or shore in the southwest zone. Sam's Chowder House. How to get your choice of the coveted clan shells on Half Moon Cay including using Faster to the Fun to get you there. The Pros and Cons of Using a Fish Finder on Your From Tent to Fire: Essential Steps for Overnight Camping, Spotting Freshwater Fish and Freshwater Fish Dangers. On northern beaches, razor clam beds are exposed at any time of the day or night. Ocean (boat) crabbing areas are easily accessible. These small clams (minimum size limit is 1 1/2) are found in rock and sand mix, only about three to four inches below the surface. RITZCARLTON.COM. Diggers either wear old tennis shoes and old pants, or waders. The city is best known for its fog-shrouded beaches, quaint old town, and legendary Mavericks surf break. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue. PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. At Half Moon Cay They had at least 2 of those big double decker tenders running all day long. Its about digging. Don't knowingly lie about anyone Though they are primarily found in the northwest zone, they can be found on the shores ofAgate Beach, Waldport Beach, Whiskey Run, Myers Creek, and others. each comment to let us know of abusive posts. Weve also seen success close to Spud Point as well. That day, three California Department of Fish and Wildlife wardens stationed themselves at the main entrance at the West Shoreline access point. - Fri. 10am 2pmor By Appointment | Phone:(650)726-8380. These clams are found in areas with soft mud or sand and need to be near the waters edge in order to survive. Delivery & Pickup Options - 85 reviews of Half Moon Empanadas "It's weird to me that the Taco Bell right next door has 8 reviews but this place has 0! Get a walk alo. Error! Address: 1 Miramontes Point Road, Half Moon Bay, California 94019 United States. There are several types of shellfish to harvest in New York, including hard clams or quahogs, blue mussels, razor clams, soft clams, oysters, and bay scallops. Correct size is measured as a straight line across the back (caliper measurement) in front of, but not including the points. It is the only beach in the world where razor clams are not found. Do you have a question or comment for ODFW? The San Mateo County Coastside is made up of over 300 square miles of beautiful California countryside, with easy access to sandy beaches, redwood forests, and open spaces. When the tide drops early in the morning, there is usually a pick up of razor clams in the hours before low tide, when the receding water leaves behind soft sand and the little dimples that show where the clams have dug are visible. FinnsFishingTips.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. A clamming license in California is required for anyone wishing to recreationally harvest clams from the states beaches and bays. Its typically Half Moon Bay and the fish is finished with our very garlicy garlic bread on top. This occurs around the full moon and new moon when the tide swings are the largest. Add in the stick of butter and let melt. Author Note: You can also call their shellfish warning hotline at (800) 553-4133. In general, the best time to go clamming is during the warmer months when the water is more likely to be calm and clear. The Visit Half Moon Bay web site is jointly funded and maintained by the Half Moon Bay Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, the Half Moon Bay Business Improvement District, and the Half Moon Bay Downtown Association. Clam diggers use a tide table to determine the best time to harvest clams. Besides digging equipment, clammers also need a measuring device, fishing license, plastic bucket or burlap sack. (just north of Gardiner), then South along the beach around 8 miles. If youre really feeling adventurous, you can also bring asurf fishing set upandfish for striped bassor other fish. An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. 1 Miramontes Point Road. Pacific razor clams can be found in the California-Oregon border region southward to Pismo Beach, but they are most prevalent in Del Norte and Humboldt counties. Clam diggers can stay warm and dry while working in rubber boots, raincoats, or hip boots during the fall and winter months. Ocean waters are closed for Dungeness crab Oct. 16 Nov. 30. The type of clams that are found depend on where you dig. Minimum size of 5 inches. What Does Tripletail Fish Taste Like? Poplar Beach. Notifications from this discussion will be disabled. You should keep their temperature below 50 degrees for health food safety as well. Several species of Shellfish from the Bay Area tested positive for the dinoflagellate Alexandrium tamarense, a potentially toxic pathogen. The razor clam fishery has been closed in a few areas of the state due to the domoic acid threat, but the toxin levels in the population in Humboldt County have not increased significantly.