Half Day Afternoon Scallop Charter
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Halfday scalloping charter accommodates up to 4 guests comfortablyExperienced crew provides gear, licenses, and complimentary underwater photosSpacious 26foot tritoon features shade and runs July through September
Captain Judge Wilkes knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's ready to show you why Florida's Nature Coast is the top-rated destination for bay scallops. This isn't your typical crowded charter boat experience—we're talking a maximum of 4 guests on a spacious 26-foot tritoon, which means plenty of room to spread out and actually enjoy yourself. From July through September, when scallop season is in full swing, you'll spend four solid hours working the shallow grass flats where these little beauties love to hide. The afternoon departure gives you perfect timing to beat the morning crowds and hit the water when conditions are prime.
You'll be fishing the shallow grass beds and sandy bottoms where scallops bed down during the day. The Nature Coast offers some of the clearest water you'll find anywhere in Florida, with visibility often reaching 15-20 feet on a good day. Captain Judge runs a comfortable tritoon that's built for this kind of work—full bimini top keeps the sun off your back, plenty of cooler space for your catch, and easy entry points for getting in and out of the water. The boat draws just enough water to get you into those skinny spots where the big concentrations of scallops hang out, but stable enough that even first-timers feel comfortable. Your in-water guide stays right with the group, pointing out productive areas and making sure everyone's having success. Most of our productive spots are in 3-8 feet of water, perfect depth for snorkeling and easy enough that kids can handle it without any problems.
Everything you need comes with the trip—mask, snorkel, fins, and mesh bags for your scallops. The technique is straightforward but there's definitely some skill involved in spotting them consistently. Scallops camouflage themselves in the grass, so you're looking for that telltale shell outline or the little eyes peeking out. When you spot one, you just reach down and grab it—no special tools needed, though some folks like to use a small net. The key is moving slowly and scanning methodically. Captain Judge and the crew will get you dialed in on the search pattern that works best in whatever conditions you're fishing that day. Water temperature stays comfortable through the season, usually running 78-85 degrees, so you won't need any special thermal gear. The grass flats hold scallops all season long, but the afternoon trips often produce better because you're hitting spots that haven't been worked over by the morning boats.
Bay scallops are the main target here, and these waters produce some of the best scalloping on Florida's west coast. These shellfish are surprisingly active—they can actually swim by rapidly opening and closing their shells, which makes for some entertaining moments when you're trying to catch them. Adult bay scallops typically measure 2-3 inches across and live in the shallow seagrass beds where they filter-feed on plankton and organic matter. Peak season runs from July 1st through September 24th, when the population is at its highest and the scallops are most active. What makes scalloping so addictive is the hunt—you're essentially sight-fishing for shellfish, which requires the same kind of focus and patience that makes great anglers. The sweet, delicate meat is just a bonus. Florida regulations allow 2 gallons of whole scallops per person per day, or 1 pint of meat, which is typically more than enough for a great seafood dinner. The Nature Coast populations have been strong in recent years, with good recruitment and healthy grass beds supporting solid numbers throughout the season.
Scallop season books up fast—we're talking about a world-class fishery that's only open for less than three months each year. Captain Judge runs a customer favorite operation with repeat clients who book their spots year after year, so don't wait until the last minute. The afternoon departure time works great for families and gives you the best chance at productive water that hasn't been picked over. With licenses, gear, ice, and even digital photos included, this is the kind of all-inclusive experience that lets you focus on having fun instead of worrying about logistics. The Nature Coast offers some of the most consistent scalloping in the state, and with only 4 guests max, you're getting the personalized attention that makes the difference between an okay day and a trip you'll be talking about for years. Book now and get ready to experience why serious scalloping enthusiasts keep coming back to these waters season after season.
Step aboard our spacious 26-foot tritoon, perfectly suited for scalloping adventures along Florida's Nature Coast. This vessel runs on a powerful 300hp engine while offering plenty of deck space for up to 6 guests to move around comfortably during your half-day charter. The full bimini top provides welcome shade between scalloping spots, and our onboard icebox keeps your catch fresh and drinks cold throughout the trip. Built with stability in mind, this tritoon handles the shallow waters of the Nature Coast beautifully, getting you to prime scalloping grounds safely and smoothly. Our GPS navigation and fish finder help locate the best spots, while the VHF radio keeps us connected for safety. The wheelchair-accessible design ensures everyone can enjoy the water, and there's ample room for snorkeling gear, coolers, and all your scalloping equipment without feeling cramped on deck.
Crystal River, FL