Florida Scallop Season - Tips, Tricks & Advice Needed!

[dragonfire6]

Hi all - I'm located in central Florida and I'm planning to take my family scalloping in the coming weeks. I've never been and would appreciate any tips, tricks, coordinates, etc. from experienced scallopers (??) so we have a good time.

I'm currently looking at VRBO's between Tarpon Springs and Crystal River so info specific to that region would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

 

[AJack]

I'm not an expert, only a one-timer. I went last weekend out of Hernando Beach and learned these lessons:

1) Scalloping is inherently in weedy waters, prepare to pull weeds out
2) Suntan for your back as it is the target of sun rays as you snorkel
3) Ice your scallops
4) If it's your first time snorkeling in the Gulf, be prepared for remora, giant sea turtles and stingray
5) It's a great family activity, get snorkels for everyone!
6) These are bay scallops, not the type you see in Gordon Ramsey's dishes. Bay scallops are small marshmallow sized, need a lot to feed an adult.
7) 2 gallons per person, up to 10 gallons per vessel - bring your children!!! I used Home Depot buckets to measure and then the cooler included with the boat to store on ice.

Overall, a very easy and enjoyable activity that we are planning to go again either this weekend or next.

 

[dragonfire6]

Thanks for the info! We are going this weekend and I'm firming up a VRBO tonight. It will be me, my wife and our two boys (5 & 2).

I think we'll be staying a little more south also - possibly around Hernando beach. My 5yo will be stoked if we see anything - fish, a stingray or a turtle will blow his mind. I just got him a full face snorkel that he was testing out today in the pool and he is doing pretty good with it. Maybe we'll see you out there!

 

[AJack]

My children are 8, 6 & 3. We're still deciding if we're going to Anclote Island or scalloping, maybe both?

 

[ThatJeepGuy]

Thanks for the info! We are going this weekend and I'm firming up a VRBO tonight. It will be me, my wife and our two boys (5 & 2).

I think we'll be staying a little more south also - possibly around Hernando beach. My 5yo will be stoked if we see anything - fish, a stingray or a turtle will blow his mind. I just got him a full face snorkel that he was testing out today in the pool and he is doing pretty good with it. Maybe we'll see you out there!

1. Plan to head north for scalloping. 10-15 miles of easy riding
2. I'd plan to hang at the flats after scalloping. You'll easily see 200 boats anchored in 2'-4' of water hanging out on the north side of the Hernando beach channel.

If you're still around Sunday we'll be out there. Don't be shy