Half Day Guided Scalloping Trip In Florida
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Private scalloping adventures with flexible 4 or 6hour optionsMorning and afternoon departures accommodate all experience levelsDive pristine waters collecting scallops among marine life
When you're looking for something different from your typical Florida fishing charter, scalloping offers a perfect change of pace that gets you in the water instead of just casting from the boat. This private half-day adventure puts you right in the middle of Florida's famous scallop beds, where you'll be snorkeling through crystal-clear waters hunting for these tasty shellfish. Starting at either 8 AM or 12 PM, you've got flexibility to work around your schedule while still getting a solid 4 to 6 hours on the water. The early morning trips are especially popular since the water tends to be calmer and visibility is at its peak.
Your scalloping adventure kicks off from one of Florida's premier launch points, where we'll get you fitted with proper snorkeling gear and give you a quick briefing on scallop hunting techniques. The waters we target are typically 3 to 8 feet deep with sandy bottoms and plenty of grass flats where scallops love to hang out. You'll be amazed at how clear the water is – visibility often reaches 20 feet or more, making it easy to spot those telltale blue eyes peeking out from the sea grass. The boat stays close by as you drift and swim through the beds, and there's always a cooler full of ice water waiting when you need a break. Since this is a private trip for just one person, you get personalized attention and can move at your own pace without worrying about keeping up with a crowd.
We provide all the snorkeling equipment you'll need, including masks, snorkels, and fins that are properly sanitized between trips. The key to successful scalloping is learning to move slowly and quietly through the water – scallops are surprisingly quick to snap shut and jet away if they sense vibration. You'll be looking for those bright blue eyes that stick out about a quarter inch from their shells, usually nestled in turtle grass or attached to rocks and other hard surfaces. The technique is simple: swim down, grab the scallop quickly before it can escape, and drop it in your mesh bag. Most folks get the hang of it within the first 15 minutes, and then it becomes addictive. The water temperature stays comfortable year-round, typically ranging from the mid-70s in winter to the low 80s during summer months.
Bay scallops are the stars of this show, and Florida's Gulf Coast populations are some of the healthiest you'll find anywhere. These guys are about 2 to 3 inches across when fully grown, with beautiful fan-shaped shells that range from white to brown with intricate patterns. What makes them special is those electric blue eyes – they can have up to 200 tiny eyes along the edge of their shell, each one capable of detecting shadows and movement. Scallop season typically runs from July through September, with August being the peak month when populations are at their highest. The meat inside is incredibly sweet and tender, nothing like the large sea scallops you get at restaurants. Fresh bay scallops have a delicate, almost buttery flavor that's absolutely amazing when seared quickly in a hot pan with just a little butter and garlic. What guests love most is the combination of the hunt and the reward – there's something deeply satisfying about collecting your own dinner while floating in some of the clearest water Florida has to offer.
This top-rated scalloping experience fills up fast during peak season, especially for the prime morning slots when conditions are typically at their best. The private nature of the trip means you're getting world-class personal service and the flexibility to focus on the areas where scallops are most active that particular day. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or someone who's never been in the water with a mask, this customer favorite adventure adapts to your comfort level while still delivering plenty of action. The memories you'll make floating through Florida's pristine scallop beds, plus the fresh seafood dinner you'll collect, make this one of the best trips you can book on the Gulf Coast. Don't wait – spots for this renowned scalloping adventure book up weeks in advance during the trending summer months.
Florida