Fishing and Scalloping Combo - Full Day Adventure
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Fullday combo trip featuring fishing and scalloping activitiesExpert guides provide instruction for both experienced and novice anglersSmall group experience with maximum capacity of two guests
Looking for the perfect mix of rod-bending action and underwater treasure hunting? This full-day combo trip with Native Fishing Charters delivers both in one jam-packed adventure. You'll start your morning casting lines for local gamefish, then shift gears midday to dive for fresh scallops in crystal-clear shallows. It's hands-down one of the most popular trips we run, especially for couples or small groups who want to experience the best of both worlds on the water.
Your day kicks off early with our seasoned captain taking you to productive inshore fishing grounds where the bite is consistently good. We're talking about prime spots that locals have been hitting for generations - shallow grass flats, rocky outcroppings, and structure that holds fish year-round. The boat accommodates just two guests, so you're getting personalized attention and plenty of elbow room to work your tackle. After a solid morning of fishing, we'll cruise to the scalloping grounds where the real fun begins. The water here is gin-clear and shallow enough that even beginners can easily spot these tasty mollusks on the bottom. You'll be amazed how quickly you get the hang of free-diving for scallops - it's addictive once you start filling your bag with fresh ones.
For the fishing portion, we'll set you up with medium-action spinning rods and reels that can handle everything from smaller snapper to bigger trout. Live bait works best in these waters - we're talking live shrimp, pinfish, and sometimes pilchards depending on what's available at the bait shop. The technique is straightforward: we'll anchor up on productive structure and let you work the bottom with jigs or live bait rigs. Don't worry if you're new to this - our guides will walk you through proper hook sets, fighting fish, and landing techniques. For scalloping, all you need is a mask, snorkel, and mesh bag - we provide everything. The technique is simple: swim along the grass beds, spot the scallops with their distinctive shells, and dive down to grab them. Most scallops sit in 3-8 feet of water, making this activity perfect for swimmers of all skill levels.
Red snapper are the crown jewel of inshore fishing in these waters. These hard-fighting fish typically range from 2-8 pounds and are absolute bulldogs when hooked. They love structure - rocks, reefs, and artificial wrecks where they can ambush baitfish. Summer months are prime time for snapper, when they're most active and feeding heavily. What makes them special is their incredible table fare and the way they fight - expect multiple runs and head shakes that'll test your drag system. Spotted seatrout are another customer favorite that patrol the grass flats year-round. These beautiful fish average 1-4 pounds but can grow much larger, especially during cooler months. They're spooky and require finesse - light tackle and quiet presentations work best. Trout are most active during dawn and dusk, making them perfect targets for morning fishing sessions. Their strikes are subtle, so you'll need to stay alert and set the hook quickly when you feel that telltale tap.
Bay scallops might not be fish, but they're definitely a prize worth targeting during scalloping season. These bivalves are surprisingly fast swimmers when disturbed, using jet propulsion to escape predators. Peak season typically runs through summer months when scallops are most abundant in shallow grass beds. What guests love about scalloping is the treasure hunt aspect - you're literally diving for dinner while enjoying some of the clearest water around. Fresh scallops taste nothing like store-bought ones, with a sweet, delicate flavor that's impossible to replicate.
This combo trip represents serious value for anglers who want variety in their day on the water. You're getting world-class fishing action plus a unique scalloping experience that most visitors never get to try. With only two spots available per trip, dates fill up fast - especially during peak fishing and scalloping seasons. Native Fishing Charters has built a reputation for putting clients on fish while providing that authentic local experience you can't get with bigger charter operations. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, planning a guys' trip, or just want to try something different, this full-day adventure delivers memories that'll last long after you've eaten your catch. Give us a call to check availability and secure your spot before someone else grabs it.
Get ready to hit the water aboard our 27-foot Ameracat power catamaran for the ultimate fishing and scalloping combo day! This stable, fuel-efficient cat cuts through waves like butter, making those longer runs to productive fishing grounds comfortable for our small group of just 2 guests. The wireless trolling motor keeps things quiet when we're working structure for fish, while the GPS and fish finder help us locate the best spots to drop lines. When it's time to switch gears and hunt for scallops, you'll appreciate how easily this boat handles shallow waters. The VHF radio keeps us connected, and radar ensures we navigate safely in any conditions. Whether you're casting for your next trophy fish or diving down to collect fresh scallops, this versatile catamaran gives us access to both inshore fishing hotspots and prime scalloping beds in the same trip.
Crystal River, FL