2025 Florida Scallop Season: What You Need to Know for Bay Scalloping

The 2025 Florida scallop season is coming soon, and it's time to get ready! Whether you're an expert or a beginner, knowing the season dates, rules, and best places to go will help you have a great time and stay out of trouble. This guide will cover everything you need to know about Florida scalloping.

Bay scallops (Argopecten irradians) are small shellfish that live in the seagrass beds along Florida’s Gulf Coast. They are known for their sweet, tender meat and are a favorite for people who enjoy scalloping in places like Homosassa, Ozello, Crystal River and Steinhatchee. These little creatures have tiny blue eyes that help them see, and they can swim by quickly opening and closing their shells. Scalloping in Florida is a fun summer activity, and it also helps scientists learn about the health of the ocean since scallops need clean water and healthy seagrass to survive.

Scalloping is easy if you have the right skills and tools. Using good snorkeling gear helps you see better underwater and spot scallops more easily. Scallops like to hide in seagrass beds, especially turtle grass and manatee grass. Turtle grass has wide blades where young scallops attach and grow. Manatee grass is thinner and easier to see through, but it usually has fewer scallops. A mesh bag lets water drain while keeping your catch fresh.

When looking for scallops, swim with the tide to save energy and cover more ground. Look for their tiny blue eyes, which shine when they reflect light. Try the swish and scoop method—wave your hand over the seagrass to make scallops move, then scoop them up.

Before heading out, make sure you have the right permits and safety gear. Recreational harvesters need a Florida saltwater fishing license to harvest bay scallops, unless you're on a licensed charter boat. You also need a dive flag so boaters can see you in the water. Always have life vests, a first aid kit, and extra supplies on board.

Since you'll be outside all day, wear reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to avoid sunburn. Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated in the summer heat.

For an unforgettable Crystal River Scalloping experience, Florida’s Gulf Coast offers prime spots. Here are the season dates by region:

• St. Joseph Bay & Gulf County: Aug. 16 – Sept. 24 (Mexico Beach Canal to St. Vincent Island).

• Franklin County to NW Taylor County (Carrabelle, Lanark, St. Marks): July 1 – Sept. 24 (St. Vincent Island to Rock Island).

• Fenholloway to Suwannee Rivers Zone (Keaton Beach, Steinhatchee): June 15 – Labor Day (Rock Island to Suwannee River). Lower bag limits apply June 15-30.

• Levy, Citrus & Hernando Counties (Ozello, Crystal River, Homosassa): July 1 – Sept. 24—a top Crystal River Scalloping destination with clear waters and abundant seagrass beds.

• Pasco Zone: July 10 – July 24 & Aug. 28 – Sept. 24 (Hernando-Pasco County line to Anclote Key Lighthouse).

These regulation may change from time to time so always check with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for the latest regulations before heading out.

Keeping Florida’s scallop population healthy is crucial for preserving marine habitats. Never discard scallop shells in inshore waters or rivers—this can harm the ecosystem. Instead, return them offshore where they belong or dispose of them properly. Harvest responsibly by following FWC bag limits, which vary by region and time of year.

Gulf through NW Taylor County and Levy through Pasco County:

• Per person: 2 gallons of whole bay scallops (in-shell) or 1 pint of bay scallop meat (shucked)
• Per vessel: 10 gallons whole or ½ gallon shucked (½ gallon = 4 pints)

Fenholloway through Suwannee River Zone:

June 15-30:

• Per person: 1 gallon whole or 1 cup shucked
• Per vessel: 5 gallons whole or 2 pints shucked

July 1 - Labor Day:

• Per person: 2 gallons whole or 1 pint of bay scallop shucked
• Per vessel: 10 gallons of whole bay scallops or ½ gallon shucked

The vessel limit ensures no individual exceeds their personal daily allowance, even when multiple people are on board. Always check current regulations before heading out, as some areas have different restrictions early in the season.

Also, respect marine life while scalloping—manatees, sea turtles, and other species share these waters. Avoid disturbing them, and always dispose of trash properly to keep Florida’s waterways clean.

The Nature Coast is home to some of the best scalloping grounds in Florida. Crystal River, Homosassa, and Ozello stand out for their clear water and abundant bay scallops. For a scalloping charter, launching from Ozello Keys Marina offers the shortest ride to the scalloping areas, maximizing your time in the water.

Steinhatchee scalloping is another prime destination, known for deeper waters and large harvests. Offshore seagrass beds provide ideal conditions, and the water clarity improves as you move further out. While its season is shorter, the high yield makes it a popular choice for many scallopers.

A little planning can make your trip even better. Pack a snorkel, mask, fins, gloves, mesh bags, and a cooler. Keep your scallops on ice or in a mesh bag to keep them fresh. If it’s your first time, booking a scallop tour or hiring a guide can make your trip easier and more fun. Swimming with the tide helps save energy and makes it easier to spot scallops as you float over seagrass beds.

Scalloping is really a great way to spend time with family and friends. Many local charters, including us, offer group tours that provide all the gear you need for a fund day scalloping. If you're using your own boat, double-check that you have the right safety and navigation tools before you leave.

The bay scalloping season is shaping up to be an exciting one! Whether you explore Crystal River, Steinhatchee, or Pasco County, following the rules and best practices will help you have a fun and successful trip. From getting your fishing license to picking the right snorkeling gear, every part of the adventure will be one to remember.

Finding and scooping up a scallop is one of the best feelings! For many people, scalloping is more than just a fun activity—it’s a tradition that brings families together to enjoy Florida’s beautiful waters. If you're looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and fresh seafood, the 2025 scalloping season is the perfect time to dive in.

Let's go scalloping!