In this video, I provide tips for catching Pismo clams. These clams can be taken year round, however, we like to follow the rule of clamming during the months that have an “r”, that is, September thru April. I cover tide, which is one of the most important things to consider when clamming. I also cover technique, regulations, and the effort required to catch legal clams. You will see a California Department of Fish and Game warden inspect our clams. They are charged with enforcing the following regulations.
Invertebrate Fishing Regulations
29.05. General.
(c) Measuring Devices. Every person while taking invertebrates which have a size limit shall carry a device which is capable of accurately measuring the minimum legal size of the species taken
29.20. Clams General.
(b) Fishing hours: One-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.
(d) Clams that have a size limit shall be immediately measured. Any undersize clams, or other clams that are not retained, shall be immediately reburied in the area from which they were taken. All clams shall be kept in a whole and measurable condition until being prepared for immediate consumption. When taking or possessing clams each person is required to keep a separate container for their clams. It shall be unlawful to commingle one person’s clams with clams taken by another person.
29.40. Pismo Clams.
(a) Open season: May be taken in Santa Cruz and Monterey counties September 1 through April 30. In all other counties, except in state marine reserves or other marine protected areas which prohibit the take of clams (see Section 632), Pismo clams may be taken at any time of the year.
(b) Limit: Ten.
(c) Minimum size: Five inches in greatest shell diameter north of the boundary between San Luis Obispo and Monterey counties; four and one-half inches in greatest shell diameter south of the boundary, between San Luis Obispo and Monterey counties.
(d) Clam preserves: No clams shall be taken within state marine reserves or other marine protected areas which prohibit the take of clams (see Section 632).
Note: the regulations stated in the video are for Pismo clams taken south of San Luis Obispo county.