Pacific Gaper Clam and Fat Gaper Clam in California
California rules, records and waters for Pacific gaper clam and fat gaper clam.
- n/adaily bag
California Pacific gaper clam and fat gaper clam at a glance
CDFW covers Pacific gaper clam and fat gaper clam (Tresus nuttallii and Tresus capax) among its invertebrates species, found on salt water. The CDFW tables carry no row for it.
The Marine Species Portal lists the north, central and south regions.
How CDFW describes Pacific gaper clam and fat gaper clam
“Gaper clams are found from Alaska to Scammon’s Lagoon, Baja California, Mexico.”
“They prefer fine sand or firm, sandy-mud bottoms, especially in bays, estuaries, and more sheltered outer coastal areas. They are found from the intertidal zone to depths of at least 46 meters (150 feet).”
- SizeTo 25.4 centimeters (10 inches) and 2.3 kilograms (5 pounds)
- SeasonThe recreational season is open year-round. T he recreational fishery may be closed due to health concerns due to naturally occurring toxins. See the Department’s health advisory page for more details.
- GearClammers generally use shovels to dig for these clams, which may be found as deep as four feet in sand or mud. In muddy areas, lengths of wide PVC pipe are often used to prevent holes from caving in.
- Where fishedAvailable statewide. Humboldt Bay, Bodega Bay, Tomales Bay, Drakes Estero, and Pillar Point Harbor are popular areas for gaper clams.
- Other nameshorseneck clam, horse clam, blue clam, empire clam
Quoted from CDFW, checked October 2026.
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Things to know about Pacific gaper clam and fat gaper clam
What is the California bag limit on Pacific gaper clam and fat gaper clam?
Check the CDFW regulations; no row is listed.
Where was the record Pacific gaper clam and fat gaper clam caught?
CDFW lists no record for it.
Which California waters hold Pacific gaper clam and fat gaper clam?
Available statewide. Humboldt Bay, Bodega Bay, Tomales Bay, Drakes Estero, and Pillar Point Harbor are popular areas for gaper clams.
Is Pacific gaper clam and fat gaper clam part of the stocking plan?
Not in the 2026 trout and inland salmon plan.
How do I identify Pacific gaper clam and fat gaper clam?
To 25.4 centimeters (10 inches) and 2.3 kilograms (5 pounds)
Does California close the season on Pacific gaper clam and fat gaper clam?
The recreational season is open year-round. T he recreational fishery may be closed due to health concerns due to naturally occurring toxins. See the Department’s health advisory page for more details.
Which California license covers Pacific gaper clam and fat gaper clam?
A license from age 16 at $64.54; check the card rules for salmon and sturgeon.
Which landings report Pacific gaper clam and fat gaper clam?
None list it in their counts; see the guides page.
Plan a Pacific gaper clam and fat gaper clam trip
Choose a water from the lists on this page.