Afternoon Scalloping Charter Steinhatchee Florida
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Fourhour afternoon scalloping charter in shallow, clear watersAll scalloping gear provided with no prior experience requiredFamilyfriendly seasonal adventure available June through September
Nothing beats the satisfaction of pulling fresh scallops from the crystal-clear waters around Steinhatchee. This 4-hour afternoon charter with Knockin Bottom Fishing Charters runs from mid-June through September 1st, giving you prime access to some of Florida's best scalloping grounds. Whether you're bringing the kids for their first underwater adventure or you're a seasoned scooper looking for a relaxed afternoon on the water, this trip delivers exactly what you're after. The shallow flats around Steinhatchee offer perfect visibility and calm conditions, making it easy for anyone to spot and collect these tasty shellfish. With all gear provided and room for up to 4 guests, you'll have everything needed for a successful harvest without the hassle of figuring out what to bring.
Your captain knows these waters like the back of their hand, and they'll position you over the most productive scallop beds where the grass flats hold plenty of bay scallops. The afternoon timing works perfectly since the sun angle gives you maximum visibility through the water column. You'll be working depths typically ranging from 3 to 8 feet, so even nervous swimmers can feel confident snorkeling these spots. The boat stays anchored or drifts slowly while you free-dive down to pluck scallops from the grass beds. Captain keeps a sharp eye on everyone in the water and provides helpful tips on spotting techniques. The relaxed pace means you're not rushed - take your time scanning the bottom and enjoy the clear Gulf waters. Families love this setup because kids can participate alongside adults, and the shallow depths mean parents can easily assist younger scoopers. Between scalloping spots, you'll cruise scenic coastline and often spot dolphins, manatees, or various seabirds that call these waters home.
All scalloping equipment comes included, so you just need to bring yourself and appropriate swimwear. The boat provides masks, snorkels, fins, and mesh bags for collecting your catch. Basic snorkeling skills help, but you don't need to be an expert swimmer since you're working shallow flats with sandy bottoms. The technique is straightforward - scan the grass beds for the distinctive dark shells that stand out against lighter sand patches. Bay scallops often sit partially buried or nestled in turtle grass, and their dark shells with radiating ridges make them relatively easy to spot once your eyes adjust. You'll dive down, grab the scallop, and drop it in your mesh bag before surfacing. Most people get the hang of it within the first few minutes. The key is moving slowly and methodically across the bottom rather than rushing around. Experienced guides point out good scallop habitat and help first-timers learn proper diving techniques. The mesh bags allow water to flow through while keeping your harvest secure, and the captain tracks daily limits to ensure everyone stays within regulations.
Bay scallops are the stars of this show, and Steinhatchee's grass flats provide ideal habitat for healthy populations during the summer months. These bivalves typically measure 2 to 4 inches across and feature distinctive fan-shaped shells with prominent ridges radiating from the hinge. Unlike their larger sea scallop cousins found in deeper waters, bay scallops prefer shallow seagrass beds where they filter-feed on plankton and organic particles. The Florida scalloping season runs from late June through early September, coinciding with peak reproduction when adult scallops are at their largest and most flavorful. What makes scalloping exciting is the active hunting aspect - you're literally treasure hunting underwater, scanning the bottom for these well-camouflaged shellfish. Bay scallops can actually swim by rapidly opening and closing their shells, sometimes surprising snorkelers when they suddenly jet away in a zigzag pattern. The sweet, tender meat inside makes all the effort worthwhile, and many guests say fresh scallops taste completely different from anything you'll find in restaurants. Each scallop contains a single large adductor muscle that's incredibly sweet and buttery when properly prepared, making your harvest the foundation for an amazing dinner.
Scalloping season is short and sweet, running only from June 15th through September 1st, so availability fills up fast as summer approaches. This afternoon charter gives you the perfect window to experience one of Florida's most popular seasonal activities without fighting morning crowds at the boat ramp. The 4-hour timeframe provides plenty of opportunity to reach your daily limit while still leaving time for dinner prep back at your accommodation. With only 4 guests per trip, you're guaranteed personal attention and won't feel rushed or crowded. Knockin Bottom Fishing Charters has built a solid reputation around Steinhatchee for putting clients on productive scallop beds and maintaining safe, enjoyable trips for all skill levels. The provided gear eliminates guesswork about what equipment to bring, and the captain's local knowledge means you'll spend time scalloping rather than searching for productive areas. Book early to secure your preferred dates - this seasonal fishery draws visitors from across the Southeast, and the best weather windows get claimed quickly. Whether you're planning a family vacation or looking for a unique group activity, this scalloping charter offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and delicious results that'll have you planning your return trip before the season ends.
Our 22-foot 2022 Lowe center console is your ticket to productive scalloping in Steinhatchee's pristine flats. The Mercury 200HP pushes this stable platform through shallow waters where the best scallop beds hide, while the wireless trolling motor lets you drift silently over prime spots without spooking marine life. The GPS keeps you on the productive grounds, and when visibility drops, the radar ensures safe navigation back to port. The fish finder doubles as your scallop-spotting tool, helping locate those sandy bottom areas where bay scallops love to hang out. Built for Florida's inshore waters, this boat handles the shallow grass flats perfectly while keeping up to 4 guests comfortable during your afternoon hunt. The center console design gives everyone easy access to the water for snorkeling and collecting, plus plenty of deck space to sort your catch. Whether you're a first-timer or seasoned scalloper, this reliable boat gets you to the action and back with your limit of fresh scallops.
Jacksonville