How to Gather Clams (Tools & Tips)

The author, Andy Nabreski, searches for clams with a rake in the winter of 2017.

Clams (quahogs) are abundant throughout the Northeast, and I believe they are the most versatile for cooking. Quahogs go by a few different names. A just barely-legal clam is often called a “littleneck.” A medium-size quahog is a “cherrystone,” and a big one is often called a “chowder” or simply a quahog.

How to Find Clams

Start by looking in bays and estuaries that get plenty of tidal flow. Clams live in a variety of conditions, including sand, mud, and even rocky areas, though I favor locations that feature more of a muddy/sandy bottom. Drive around to likely areas at low tide and seek out other clammers. I must warn you, however, not to intrude too closely on another clammer’s turf. Clammers tend to be a happy lot but can be very territorial.

Quahogs live anywhere from the high-tide line to depths of over 20 feet. They tend to congregate along the shorelines, so I like to look for them in areas from the low-tide mark out to about 4 feet deep (at low tide). Pay attention to the seafloor as you are looking. Once you start finding clams, take note of the bottom type, and look for other similar areas.

Tools & Tips to Gather Clams

• Clam Rake: There are a few different styles available, but KB White Company is my favorite.
• Float: An old inner tube will work if you’re on a tight budget.
• Neoprene Gloves: Keep your hands warm and help prevent blisters.
• Shellfish Gauge: You’ll need one of these gadgets to measure “keeper” clams. Tie on a loop of string and wear it around your neck.
• Shellfishing License: Don’t leave home without it.
• Waders: Neoprene is the way to go if you plan on clamming in the winter.
• Wire Basket: You’ll need something to put all of those tasty clams into.

You’ll need a clam (quahog) rake, a basket, and a gauge to measure them. Take the rake and start scraping the bottom. You want the teeth on the rake to penetrate at least an inch below the surface. (It’s kind of like raking leaves.) Clams don’t live very deep – they are just under the surface. When your metal rake hits one of the hard shells, there’s a distinct feeling and sound that, over time, you will instantly know is a quahog, and not a rock.

When you feel that “thump,” really start digging and try to get the teeth of the rake under the clam. Pull the rake toward you, flip it, give it a shake, and pull up a clam!

If you are averaging two ‘hogs per rake, you’re doing well. If it takes more than four rakes to get one quahog, start looking for another spot. Sometimes, moving 10 feet can be the difference between loading up quickly or going home with 10 clams. Once you find a good spot, don’t stray too far. Shellfish beds don’t regenerate quickly, so once a clammer clears out a particular location, it’ll be slim pickings until the following year. Be persistent, cover some ground, and you’ll find a sweet spot.

While raking for quahogs is perhaps the most productive technique, during the summer months you may witness “summer clammers” gathering ‘hogs using their hands and feet. Simply walk around a clam bed until you feel something solid underfoot, then start digging with your hands. With a bit of luck, you’ll come up with a clam; but beware of ornery crabs, or, worse, hunks of broken glass.

Clam Cooking Recipes

Clam Chowder

Grilled Clams Sambuca

Manhattan Clam Soup

Pork Stew with Clams and Spicy Red Pepper Sauce

Clam Stuffing Recipe