Scalloping in Florida is a fun activity for the whole family. You head out on the water and collect tasty bay scallops from specific parts of Florida’s Gulf Coast. It’s a great way to explore Florida’s beautiful waterways, but before you grab your snorkel and bucket, it’s important to know the rules.
The regulations are there to protect the scallop population and make sure everyone can enjoy this activity for years to come. Ignoring them can lead to fines and harm the ecosystem. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the 2025 Florida scalloping season. We’ll cover everything from season dates and harvest zones to the rules you need to follow for a safe and enjoyable time.
What are bay scallops?
Bay scallops (Argopecten irradians) are bivalve mollusks that live in shallow coastal waters. You’ll recognize them by their fan-shaped shells and their sweet, delicate flavor.
In Florida, bay scallops typically grow to about 3 inches (75 mm) in height, although they can reach almost 3.5 inches (90 mm). They usually live for about a year in Florida, although they can survive for up to two years.
Where are bay scallops found in Florida?
Bay scallops love seagrass beds in shallow water. In Florida, they thrive along the Gulf Coast, from Anclote Key to Mexico Beach.
These seagrass beds are essential for scallop survival. Seagrass provides scallops with shelter and food, and protecting these habitats is key to keeping scallop populations healthy.
2025 Scalloping Season Dates and Harvest Zones
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) divides the state into harvest zones, based on their surveys of the scallop population in a given area. Each zone has its own dates for scalloping season, and these dates can change from year to year.
For detailed maps showing the boundaries of each harvest zone, check the FWC website or ask at a local bait and tackle shop.
Here are the scalloping season dates for 2024:
- Pasco Zone: July 10 – Aug. 18
- Levy, Citrus & Hernando Counties: July 1 – Sept. 24
- Fenholloway – Suwannee Rivers Zone: June 15 – Labor Day
- Franklin County – NW Taylor County: July 1 – Sept. 24
- St. Joseph Bay & Gulf County: Aug. 16-Sept. 24
A note about the Fenholloway – Suwannee Rivers Zone: Different harvest limits are in place from June 15-30 than from July 1-Labor Day, so be sure to check the FWC regulations.
Because regulations can change, always double-check them before you head out to harvest scallops.
Scalloping Regulations: Bag Limits, Gear, and Licenses
Before you head out on your scalloping adventure, it’s vital to understand and respect the rules and regulations designed to protect the scallop population and ensure the sustainability of this fun activity.
Bag Limits
There are daily limits on how many scallops each person can collect, as well as limits for each boat.
- General Limit: Each person is allowed 2 gallons of whole scallops in the shell or 1 pint of scallop meat. Each vessel can carry a maximum of 10 gallons of whole scallops or 1/2 gallon of scallop meat.
- Fenholloway – Suwannee River Zone (June 15-30): A special, more restrictive limit applies during this period. Each person can collect 1 gallon of whole scallops or 1 cup of shucked scallop meat. Each vessel is limited to 5 gallons of whole scallops or 2 pints of shucked meat.
These limits are in place to prevent overharvesting, and violating them can result in fines.
Legal Gear
You’re allowed to collect scallops by hand or with a landing or dip net. Commercial harvesting of scallops is prohibited.
Licensing Requirements
Generally, you’ll need a Florida saltwater fishing license to harvest scallops. However, there are exceptions, such as shoreline fishing licenses and exemptions for certain individuals.
Safety and environmental considerations
It’s important to keep safety and environmental considerations in mind when you’re out scalloping.
Scalloping safety
Be sure you know how to swim, and be aware of the currents in the area where you’re swimming. If you’re going out on a boat, make sure everyone has a life jacket and that the captain knows how to navigate safely.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has a short video about scalloping safety that you might want to watch before you head out.
Environmental responsibility
It’s important to protect the environment when you’re scalloping. Never toss your scallop shells into rivers or inshore waters. Instead, discard the shells in trash receptacles on land.
Also, be careful to minimize your impact on seagrass beds.
Summary
Scalloping season in Florida is an annual highlight for many, but it’s essential to remember the key dates, regulations, and safety tips. Understanding and following the rules helps ensure a sustainable season, and prioritizing safety makes it more fun for everyone.
By scalloping responsibly and protecting Florida’s marine resources, we can ensure that future generations will also have the chance to enjoy this unique experience.
Scalloping offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to connect with nature and experience the unparalleled beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast. So, get out there, be safe, and have fun!