Quick Details
Spend the day on the pristine coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico hunting the Bay Scallop! Let our U.S. Coast Guard licensed captains guide you to the fertile underwater grasslands found off of the Crystal River. Hunt and gather the sometimes elusive Bay Scallop while also seeing some of the aquatic life our area has to offer. Enjoy the scenic ride down the Crystal River where you may see some of our local wildlife in person.
Historically, bay scallops occurred in Florida from West Palm Beach on the Atlantic coast to Pensacola in the state’s northwest corner. In recent decades, however, their range has decreased considerably. Although bay scallops were once plentiful along the west coast of Florida, they have disappeared in some areas. Today, Florida’s bay scallops occur in isolated populations scattered along its west coast, and the majority are found in near shore sea grass beds from Tarpon Springs in Pinellas County to Port St. Joe in Gulf County. Our captains have the local knowledge necessary to help you have a successful trip.
Scallops are typically found in 4-6 feet of water, and are camouflaged nicely to blend into the sea grass beds. Finding them is a little like an underwater Easter egg hunt, and once you develop an “eye” many of our trips will gather their limit in a couple of hours. However, Bay scallops are capable of swimming by opening and closing their shells rapidly to generate thrust, which can make catching them more challenging…but also means they move! Early season guests will find more success as the later in the season, the scallop “pickings” can be more challenging.
If you are booking parties of 7-12 people you will need to book two boats. Both boats will go out together and stay together during the whole trip.