Has anyone tried sardines? Or fresh clams?

I got some med. books at the library and they are full of wonderful recipes.
But a few call for sardines. (never had before)

and one is spaghetti with clams.
First I live on long island and I find it hard to put live clams in my hot water..
Is this something I will get over?
Does anyone use fresh for cooking?

Love clams! Not sardines. Just steam the clams till they open. I love pasta and clams at least once a month or clams casino "yummy" You'll get over it like I got over steaming lobster!