most beach in GC hold beach worm. For beginner i suggest using a plier, BCF has it for $15. My success rate increases a lot when using pliers, but you do have to dig down and grab the worm with your hands as well.
Patience is the key, as well as don't try to be quicker than the worm, coz you will lose every time, gentle grab onto it when it arches up, then slowly pull it up in one go. Practices more you will get them, try a day with low tide with small swell.