Many species of plants and animals in the Tutka Bay/ Sadie Cove area may be gathered and eaten. Captain Dick can take you to his favorite clam beds right in his own backyard.

When collecting mollusks, be sure to check with Captain Dick about safe species and collecting spots. Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning, caused by natural occuring toxins in the water, tends to rise in the summer months when most people do their collecting. Samples are regularly tested by the state and if the numbers are high, warnings are issued. These are not to be taken lightly, since PCP can result in death in as little as 12 hours.

Razor Clam

First described in 1788 from specimens found near Homer, the long, narrow shell of the Razor Clam may grow up to 7 inches. The outside of the shell is brown, the inside glossy white, sometimes with purple areas. Razor Clams live in surf-swept and somewhat protected sand beaches of the open ocean and are found from approximately 4 feet above the mean low water level down to depths of 30 fathoms. Best collected with a sturdy, narrow bladed shovel.

Butter and Steamer Clams

Found on the pebbly beaches in Captain Dick's neighborhood, they are best sought during the minus tides, near the waterline and are collected by means of a rake. The outside of the shell is grey and is banded or striped. Take care not to break the shells and watch for those mudders!

Mussles

These are found everywhere in Kachmak Bay and Cook Inlet attaching themselves to rocks and pillings. Often ignored, they are delicious when prepared carefully. Outside shell is a dark purple while the inside is light grey. It's best to gather mussles from verticle surfaces: those big ones on the beach can be pretty gritty.