Fort Flagler sport clam, oyster season opens

All clams and oysters at Fort Flagler State Park near Port Townsend are fair game now through April 15.

All clams and oysters at Fort Flagler State Park near Port Townsend are fair game now through April 15.

The beach near Port Townsend was recently opened to a longer season this year because its clam population can handle more harvesting. The split season — there’s a break from April 16 to May 14 before it resumes May 15 until Dec. 31 — avoids a one-month seaweed season at the state park.

An annual shellfish license from the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife costs $14.30 for residents, $33 for non-residents and $5.50 for seniors.