Mortality after settlement of spat seems to be the most important factor in recruitment. Harvest Cockle clams have been commercially harvested from Oregon estuaries for many years. Annual landings have ranged from 18,000 to 72,000 lb in the last ten years. Much of the harvest is used for crab bait. Some interest has been expressed for mechanical harvest of cockles in the ocean but there has been no harvest.
Cockles are also a very popular target for recreational clam diggers.
In addition to a commercial fishing license, a commercial harvester must have a shellfish harvest permit to harvest cockle clams. Recreational harvesters do not need a license. There is no size or season restrictions for commercial or sport harvest. Suggestions For Future Management Mechanical gear would need to be developed for economical harvest of cockles in the ocean. Effects of gear on habitat and other species would need to be determined.