Summer marks the much anticipated scallop season. Florida Bay Scallops are found in seagrass beds along the state’s west and northwest coasts. Scallops are a popular catch in hot summer months, and thanks to recent restoration efforts, portions of the west coast which were once closed for harvesting are open again. With access to a boat and basic snorkeling gear, you can ‘get in on the action’ and see for yourself what everyone is talking about!

  • The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulates harvesting of scallops, like it does all of Florida’s fisheries, and the recreational bay scallop harvest season begins the last Saturday in June(unless July 4th is a Saturday) and ends September 24th. 2016 Season June 24th to September 24th.

  • A saltwater fishing license is required if you enter the water by boat and you will also need a dive flag. Charters usually provide licenses, snorkeling gear, coolers, other equipment needed and dive flag.

  • The daily limit is 2 gallons whole bay scallops in shell, or 1 pint of bay scallop meat per person; maximum of 10 gallons of whole bay scallops in shell, or 1/2 gallon bay scallop meat per vessel.

Scalloping Guides: