The unpredictable positioning of aggregated distributions within dynamic marine environments can make density assessments difficult. Indigenous ecological knowledge (IEK) that has been developed over thousands of years and uses visual, aural and tactile cues to locate individual animals or populations. Combining this rich, alternative information with conventional scientific survey methods may enhance the success of sampling designs for aggregated or scarce animals. The aim of this study was to assess the use of IEK indicators in an assessment of pipi (Donax deltoides) on beaches with varying degrees of anthropogenic disturbances. This was achieved by integrating IEK with standard survey methods. The sampling design was developed and undertaken with the involvement of traditional owners and investigated the distribution and abundance across ten beaches within Gumbaynggirr and Dunghutti. Preliminary results suggest spatial and seasonal relative density patterns within and across beaches. Whilst still under investigation, IEK indicators are predicted to be positively correlated with relative density. If so, IEK could be a key element in providing accurate assessments of aggregated populations, especially those of low abundances.