Spring is here and so is shellfish season along Hood Canal! If you’re heading out to dig clams or harvest oysters, take note of the new 2026 rules that kicked in April 1 — the minimum size for cockles is now 2½ inches, and geoduck limits have dropped to one per person per day. Potlatch State Park’s clam, mussel, and oyster season is open through May 31, so grab your shellfish license and your Discover Pass and get out there.
Over at Tahuya State Forest, heads up that portions of the Howell Lake Loop Trail remain temporarily closed due to a washed-out bridge. Plenty of other trails are open for ORV riding, mountain biking, and hiking — just stick to marked routes and remember your Discover Pass.
Looking ahead, the Theler Wetlands trail system is getting a major upgrade this summer. Construction begins on a new pedestrian boardwalk in the footprint of the removed levees, fully reconnecting the estuary trail loop. And Belfair State Park’s Tree Loop campground opens for reservations May 15 — start planning those summer weekends on the water.
- Shellfish 2026 Rule Changes (April 1): Cockle minimum size 2½ inches; geoduck limit 1/person/day
- Potlatch State Park shellfish season: Open through May 31
- Tahuya Howell Lake Loop: Partial closure — bridge washout; other trails open
- Theler Wetlands boardwalk: Construction starting summer 2026
- Belfair State Park Tree Loop: Reservations open May 15