5.0(2 Reviews)World Class Bay Scalloping Adventures in Homosassa
5.0(2 reviews)
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Eighthour private scalloping trip accommodates up to four guestsAll equipment included: snorkel gear, fins, licenses, and collection bagsSeasonal availability from July 1st through September 24th annually
Captain Randy knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's ready to show you why Homosassa Beach is one of Florida's hottest scalloping destinations. This 8-hour private trip runs from July through late September, giving you plenty of time to work the shallow grass flats and fill your bags with sweet bay scallops. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro, Randy adapts the trip to your crew's comfort level while making sure everyone gets in on the action. Plus, he's not just focused on scallops – this top-rated captain will put you on redfish and tripletail too when the opportunity strikes.
Your full-day adventure starts early, giving you maximum time to hit multiple harvest zones based on water clarity and tide conditions. Randy provides everything you need – saltwater licenses, snorkel gear, fins, and mesh bags – so you can focus on the fun stuff. The shallow grass flats around Homosassa are perfect for scalloping, with crystal-clear water that lets you spot these little treasures from the surface. Randy knows exactly where to position the boat based on current conditions, wind direction, and seasonal patterns that locals have been tracking for decades. Don't worry if you've never done this before – he'll walk you through proper techniques and safety protocols before you even get your feet wet. The beauty of this trip is the flexibility; if one spot isn't producing, Randy's got backup locations that consistently hold scallops throughout the season.
Scalloping is hands-down one of the most accessible ways to harvest your own seafood, and Randy makes it even easier by supplying all the essential gear. Your snorkel setup includes a comfortable mask, snorkel, and fins – no need for heavy scuba equipment or complicated rigging. The mesh collection bags are perfectly sized for a day's limit, and Randy shows you the proper way to identify legal-sized scallops versus the smaller ones you'll need to release. Water depth typically ranges from 3 to 8 feet, making it comfortable for swimmers of all skill levels. The grass flats provide natural cover where scallops feed and hide, so you'll learn to scan the bottom systematically while floating on the surface. Randy positions the boat strategically, allowing easy access to productive areas while keeping everyone safe in the shallow water. The Gulf of Mexico stays relatively warm during scallop season, but Randy always checks conditions and adjusts locations based on wind, tide, and visibility to ensure the best possible experience.
"Was my groups first time scalloping. Weather didn't cooperate early but Cpt. Randy kept it positive and we were able to get out. We all got scallops and he even went as far as trying to get us on a red fish or triple tail and we got both. Overall great experience and great capt, will definitely be returning" - Nick
"Capt Randy put us on some great late season scalloping and we did great. Thanks!" - Paul
Bay scallops are the main attraction during this seasonal window, and these little bivalves are absolute gold for seafood lovers. They typically measure 2-4 inches across when legal, with the sweet adductor muscle being what you're after. Peak season runs from mid-July through early September, when scallops are most abundant in the shallow grass beds. What makes scalloping so addictive is the instant gratification – you can literally see them sitting on the bottom, and with a quick dive, you've got dinner. Bay scallops are surprisingly active too; they'll actually swim away by rapidly opening and closing their shells when they sense danger, which adds an element of chase to the hunt. The meat is incredibly sweet and tender, perfect for searing, pasta dishes, or eating raw on the half shell.
Redfish are a world-class bonus that Randy loves targeting when scallop action slows down. These copper-colored beauties cruise the same shallow flats where you're scalloping, often tailing in water so shallow their backs are exposed. Homosassa redfish typically run 18-30 inches, with the slot fish being perfect table fare. They're ambush predators that feed heavily on crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish in the grass flats. Late summer coincides perfectly with scallop season, when reds are actively feeding to prepare for their fall spawning runs. What makes redfish special here is their willingness to eat artificial lures and live bait equally, and Randy's got the local knowledge to put you on these customer favorites consistently.
Tripletail are the wildcard species that can turn a great day into a legendary one. These odd-looking fish float near the surface, often around structure or debris, and they're absolute dynamite on light tackle. Homosassa's nearshore waters hold good numbers of tripletail during late summer, especially around crab trap floats and channel markers. They're renowned for their acrobatic fights and exceptional table quality – many anglers consider tripletail superior to snapper or grouper. Randy's got an eye for spotting these fish, and when conditions are right, he'll make sure you get a shot at one. Tripletail typically range from 3-15 pounds in these waters, with the larger fish putting up battles you'll be talking about for years.
This seasonal opportunity only runs from July through September, and the best dates fill up fast with returning customers who know what Randy delivers. Your private group of up to 4 anglers gets personalized attention, professional guidance, and access to productive waters that casual boaters simply don't know about. The combination of scalloping and fishing makes this a customer favorite for families, couples, and friend groups looking for variety and action. Randy's local expertise, positive attitude, and commitment to putting you on fish and scallops sets this trip apart from generic charters. Don
This restored 24' Sea Ark flats boat cuts through Homosassa's shallow waters with ease, powered by a reliable 150HP Yamaha that'll get you to the best scalloping spots quickly. Built for these grass flats, she draws minimal water and handles the Gulf's inshore conditions perfectly. The spacious deck gives up to 4 scallop hunters plenty of room to gear up and sort their catch. An icebox keeps your harvest fresh and drinks cold during those long summer days on the water. The GPS and fish finder help locate productive areas where scallops are thick, while the boat's stable platform makes getting in and out of the water simple for swimmers of all abilities. This isn't some fancy yacht - it's a working boat designed for serious scalloping in Florida's coastal waters.
5.0 out of 5.0Was my groups first time scalloping. Weather didn't cooperate early but Cpt. Randy kept it positive and we were able to get out. W...
Capt Randy put us on some great late season scalloping and we did great. Thanks!
Florida