Pismo Clam Gauge
The Pismo clam fishery has returned in greater numbers than ever before. Pismo Beach, California is once again so thick with clams that it can be hard to stick a fork or shovel into the sand.
For those unfamiliar, Pismo clams live in the surf zone along the central California coast, with the largest concentration at Pismo Beach, CA. They are one of the most delicious clams you will ever eat — and the only way to get them is to sport-harvest them yourself. Pismo clams may not be commercially harvested.
California Clamming Regulations (Summary)
- A valid California fishing license is required for anyone age 16 or older.
- Each person must carry their own FIXED measuring gauge (this is what we are selling).
- Each person must have their own container for harvested clams — co-mingling is illegal.
- Undersized clams must be re-buried immediately.
- Clamming is allowed only from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.
- Daily limit is 10 clams per person.
About Our 4.5" Fixed Pismo Clam Gauge
- Laser cut from 1/4" thick aluminum — rigid and will not bend.
- CNC-machined opening for accurate, repeatable measurement (don’t risk fines with imprecise gauges).
- Unique machined rear curve allows the gauge to align with the handle of your digging tool so it stays firmly attached in the surf.
- Design patterned after the proven Pismo clam gauges used from the 1950s–1990s. Why? Because they work.
Practical Clamming Tips
- Pismo clams are relatively easy to harvest with the right gear and a little planning.
- Get your kit together and stay legal — don’t get fined by Fish & Game.
- If you’re willing to get wet, any tide below +3.0 ft can produce an easy limit.
- If you prefer to keep your toes dry, plan for tides below +0.5 ft.
- A pitch fork is the best tool for locating and digging clams (see video).
- A gauge that attaches to your fork (like ours) is critical in the surf.
- A diver’s catch bag works best — buckets tend to get washed away.