Alaska Administrative Code
Title 5 - Fish and Game
Part 1 - Commercial and Subsistence Fishing and Private Nonprofit Salmon Hatcheries
Chapter 38 - Miscellaneous Shellfish Fishery
Article 2 - General Specifications and Restrictions
5 AAC 38.050 - Gear for clams

(a) Except as provided in (b) of this section and unless otherwise specified in this section or chapter, a person may take razor and hardshell clams only by shovels and forks.

(b) Before taking clams with a hydraulic or mechanical clam digger, a person shall obtain a permit issued by the commissioner for the area of intended operation. A person applying for a permit shall specify the location of the person's intended operation and the proposed duration of operation, and shall provide detailed specifications of the hydraulic or mechanical gear that will be used. The commissioner shall deny a permit, may place restrictions on a permit, or may terminate a permit if the commissioner finds that the operation of the hydraulic or mechanical gear may injure or jeopardize the continued health of clams or the viability of other resources inhabiting the area of intended operation.