(Homer) - The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) will be implementing a new permit for Cook Inlet and North Gulf Coast sport and personal use razor clam fisheries in 2026. This permit was established at the March 2025 Board of Fisheries meeting and is now available and required for 2026 razor clam harvest. Permits are available online through the ADF&G store, located under the “Fishing & Shellfish Permits” tab, or through the mobile app.

East Cook Inlet sport and personal use razor clam fisheries are expected to remain closed in 2026; a press release update will be issued in mid-May for east Cook Inlet beaches. In west Cook Inlet, the razor clam daily bag limit is 10 gallons per person; each household member must dig their own clams. Only one permit will be issued per household, and all household members who plan to harvest razor clams should be listed on the permit. All clams that are dug must be retained. Gear is limited to harvest by hand, rake, shovel, or manually operated clam gun.

Each permit holder is responsible for reporting online by December 31, 2026, even if the permit holder did not harvest any razor clams. Permit holders who fail to report online by December 31, 2026, WILL NOT be eligible for a permit the following year.

“Requiring a permit to harvest razor clams is similar to other permits to harvest shellfish in the region,” said Area Management Biologist Mike Booz. “The data from this permit will provide more timely and accurate effort and harvest information.”

For additional information, please contact Area Management Biologist Mike Booz or Assistant Area Management Biologist Holly Dickson at (907) 235-8191.

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