In addition to species of fish, the sound is home to several marine mammals. These include the harbor seal, harbor porpoise, Dall’s porpoise, and Orca whale. Seasonal visitors include the gray and Minke whales and California and Stellar sea lions. Fish and shellfish harvesting is a big part of the states’s economy. These include oysters, clams, scallops, crabs, geoducks, and shrimp. Several beaches offer shellfish harvesting to the public. Before digging, call the Shellfish Red-Tide Hot-line, 1-800-562-5632, to check on beach closures. To learn more about the ecology of Puget Sound, call for the free booklet, Sound Information: A Boater’s Guide at 206-286-1309.

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