Local Shellfishing Closures

Shellfish samples from multiple locations tested by the Washington Department of Health (DOH) were found to have high levels of the biotoxin that causes Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP). DOH has closed all of Hood Canal, Port Ludlow and Mats Mats Bay for the recreational harvest of all species of molluscan shellfish including clams, oysters, mussels and scallops. Jefferson County Public Health has posted Danger signs at public access points in the area. Crab and shrimp are not included in the closure.

Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning can be fatal. Illness is caused by eating shellfish contaminated with toxins from the naturally occurring marine plankton Alexandrium. The biotoxin is not destroyed by cooking or freezing. Symptoms of PSP can appear within minutes or hours and usually begin with tingling lips and tongue, moving to the hands and feet, followed by difficulty breathing and paralysis. Anyone experiencing any of these symptoms after consuming shellfish should contact a health care provider immediately. For extreme reactions, call 911.

PSP is not common in Hood Canal, but very high toxin levels have led to closures there in the past. To find out which areas are safe to harvest shellfish in Washington and the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) harvesting seasons and rules, please check the map at \doh.wa.gov/ShellfishSafety.htm or call the Biotoxin Hotline at 1-800-562-5632. The status of beaches changes often, so check frequently for the latest conditions. For the latest information on regulations and seasons, visit wdfw.wa.gov/places-to-go/shellfish-beaches or call WDFW Fish Program customer service at 360-902-2700.