Several beaches in Washington have been declared unsafe for locals and travelers who fish recreationally for shellfish except for shrimp, seaweed, and crabs. Over 20 beaches in WA State have been closed for recreational harvesting due to a poison that could cause your muscles to paralyze.

Current WA Shellfish Harvest Warning and Safe Beaches List

The current health department update as of Tuesday, August 12th, says to avoid going fishing for:

Geoduck

Butter clams

Varnish clams

Oysters

Mussels

Moon Snails

Scallops

"Biotoxins and other contaminants are known to concentrate in crab guts (butter). To be safe, clean crab thoroughly and discard the guts." - Biotoxin Bulletin from the Washington State Department of Health

You can see the list of closed beaches in the list at the end

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