Are you interested in the 2024 Florida Scalloping Season? Well, you’ve found the right place! We’ll break down the latest and greatest scallop tips/regulations to ensure you have more success this season. Scalloping out of Crystal River, and all over the state of Florida, is a great way to cool off with your family in the summer and make memories that’ll last a lifetime.
What is Scalloping?
Scalloping is a fun activity for all ages that involves snorkeling on top of the water while scanning the vibrant grass flats to locate these delicious shellfish which are nestled in or on top of the grass. Scalloping usually takes place around the 3 ft to 6 ft depth range depending on the tide, making it an easy activity for anyone to do. Once you spot a scallop, you simply “dive” down, pick it up, and place it into your scallop bag. Not only are bay scallops fun to gather, but boy are they delicious! Snorkelers will also enjoy viewing a variety of fish, sponges, coral and more!
How Do You Catch Scallops?
Tips and Tricks Overview
- Move slow through the water scanning back and forth
- Look for rugged shell outline and blue eyes
- Travel into the tide
- Once a scallop is found search around it
- Try to lay flat on the surface of the water and not to stand up
Tips and Tricks
Catching scallops is quite simple once you know what you’re looking for. People tend to swim over them without realizing what they are after is right below them! The key to a successful scalloping is to swim slowly lying flat on the surface of the water and scan the grass below moving your head back and forth. Be sure not to stand up as it will muddy the bottom making it more difficult to see. Scallops are naturally camouflaged having been attached to the grass at birth until they become big enough to survive on their own. They tend to have one lighter side and one darker side.
A common tactic to spotting them is to look for the outline or shape of the scallop as it will be more of a giveaway once your eyes get adjusted to seeing them. The rugged shell that encases the scallop resembles a ruffles potato chip since it has a wavy/rough texture on the outside. If the sun is out and the scallops are open filtering the water, you might be able to see their many blue eyes. Once you find a scallop and pick it up, you’ll want to thoroughly search the surrounding area as there are generally other scallops in a 15 ft radius of the one found. It is helpful to travel into the tide at the start of your scalloping so you can drift back to the boat with the tide when you get tired.
When is Scallop Season in Florida [2024]?
Depending on where you decide to scallop in the state of Florida, scallop season dates and regulations may vary. To check the most up to date information, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife website here.
Crystal River & Homosassa
- July 1 – September 24
- 2 gallons of scallops in shell or 1 pint shucked
- Maximum of 10 gallons per boat or 1/2 gallon shucked
Pasco County
- July 1 – August 6
- 2 gallons of scallops in shell or 1 pint shucked
- Maximum of 10 gallons per boat or 1/2 gallon shucked
Steinhatchee and Keaton Beach
- June 15 – Labor Day
- June 15-30:
- 1 gallons of scallops in shell or 1/2 pint shucked
- Maximum of 5 gallons per boat or 2 pints shucked
- July 1-Labor Day
- 2 gallons of scallops in shell or 1 pint shucked
- Maximum of 10 gallons per boat or 1/2 gallon shucked
St. Marks and Carrabelle
- July 1 – September 24
- 2 gallons of scallops in shell or 1 pint shucked
Post St. Joe:
- August 16 – September 24
- Maximum of 10 gallons per boat or 1/2 gallon shucked
What’s Needed To Scallop?
Scalloping doesn’t require a lot of equipment but a few of the essential items are listed below:
- Mask
- Snorkel
- Fins
- Scallop Bag
- Florida Saltwater Fishing License
- Dive Flag
Going on a scallop charter with Crystal River Sport Fishing out of Crystal River, FL offers a range of benefits. All the gear above is provided, meaning all you need to bring is a towel, sunscreen and food/drinks. There’s a shade top on the boat and a cooler with bottled water and ice for all your food and drinks. Let us do the work and enjoy a stress-free trip with your friends or family.
How do you Clean Scallops?
Places To Stay While Scalloping in Crystal River, Fl
Waterfront Home Crystal River with Private Dock and kayaks – Citrus County (vrbo.com)
Waterfront Kings Bay, Swim in Springs off the boat dock – Kayaks incl. – Citrus County (vrbo.com)