Pismo Clams

Did you know that Pismo California used to be known as the clam capital of the world? In the 1940-50s clams were a huge part of the growth of the city of Pismo. The largest clam ever found was over 7 inches long. That’s a big clam! They now have to be at least 4 1/2 inches to take. Back then people would fill carts with large clams and make chowder or sell them to restaurants that would prepare them for tourists. Even the indigenous tribes that came to the coast ate them before California was even a state.

For a while it looked like we would run out of them. People took so many that they became hard to find. Around 2020 the populations started to increase. Now you can see lots of small to mid-sized clams. If you happen to did up an undersized one, it’s important to rebury it so that it doesn’t get washed up on shore and die. It’s an important step in keeping the population healthy. 

There is still a clam festival in Pismo every year In mid October where you can sample chowder, fried clams, and other dishes made from these mollusks. There is even a parade! Mema and I love clam chowder, especially in a bread bowl. Be sure to ask her if she would make you some when you come to visit us. (That way I can have some too!) 

Well, gotta go to the beach. Have a fun day!

Love Papaw.