When is the best time in the spring and summer months to go clam digging?

Good afternoon;

Thank you for contacting Ask an Islander. You will find all the information you need about clam digging in this article. As noted, the phase of the moon plays a part in the harvest. The best time to dig for clams is when the tide is lowest. This occurs once a month at the time of the full moon, also known as spring tides. When the moon is full, the gravitational pull of the sun and the moon upon the earth is most powerful. During this time, the high tides are higher and the low tides lower. This means that you can go out farther on the sand bars where the clams burrow deep.

Your question reminded me to look up the next full moon. It is July 3. Sadly, it was too cold for me to go clam digging shortly after the full moon of June 3.

I invite you to download or order our 2023 visitor’s guide. You can always stay in touch by signing up for the Tourism PEI newsletter which includes details on upcoming festivals and events and recipes (some for clams) too!

We hope to see you soon!

Verna Lynne