Scalloping Adventures in North Florida
Private Trip
Flats/Shallows Fishing
Sixhour snorkeling adventure hunting bay scallops in shallow flatsAll gear included plus optional scallop cleaning service availableSmall groups with four guests maximum for personalized experience
Picture this: crystal-clear water, sandy bottom dotted with sea grass, and you're floating face-down with a snorkel watching these little gems scuttle across the flats. Bay scalloping in North Florida isn't your typical fishing trip – it's more like an underwater treasure hunt that'll have you hooked from the first dive. We're talking about a 6-hour adventure where you'll be hunting Florida's most prized shellfish in some of the state's most pristine shallow waters. This isn't just another day on the water; it's a chance to experience one of Florida's oldest traditions while bringing home dinner that'll make your neighbors jealous.
When you step aboard with Williamson Outfitters, you're signing up for what we locals call the "Easter Egg Hunt of the Sea." We'll be working the shallow grass flats in 3 to 8 feet of water – perfect depth for snorkeling without feeling like you're in over your head. The beauty of scalloping is that anyone can do it. No fancy casting techniques, no worrying about line tangles or bait presentations. Just you, a mask, and the thrill of spotting those telltale shells nestled in the grass beds. The season runs different times depending where we head: Franklin and Wakulla Counties open July 1st through September 24th, while Gulf County near Port St. Joe has a shorter window from August 16th to September 24th. We keep our groups small – max 4 people – so you'll get plenty of personal attention and prime hunting spots without feeling crowded.
We've got you covered with everything you need for a successful day. Your trip includes a Florida fishing license, quality dive masks with snorkels, flippers that'll help you glide over the grass beds, protective gloves, and dip nets for scooping up your catch. The technique is straightforward but takes a little finesse. You'll float along the surface scanning the bottom for those distinctive fan-shaped shells. When you spot one, dive down and either grab it by hand or use your net – but here's the key: only take the ones that clamp shut when you touch them. That means they're alive and legal. Dead shells stay on the bottom. We'll teach you how to measure them properly (they need to be in shells measuring at least 2 inches) and show you the difference between keepers and throwbacks. Most folks get the hang of it within the first hour, then it becomes addictive.
Florida Bay Scallops are hands down one of the state's most sought-after delicacies, and for good reason. These little beauties are sweet, tender, and nothing like the rubbery imposters you might find at chain restaurants. Peak season typically hits hard in August when the scallops are at their plumpest and most abundant. The grass flats around Franklin County have been producing some monster hauls this year – we're talking limits that'll fill your cooler and your belly for weeks. What makes North Florida scallops special is the pristine water quality and rich sea grass beds that give them that clean, sweet flavor. Unlike their deep-water cousins, bay scallops are smaller but pack way more flavor per bite. Plus, there's something satisfying about working for your dinner. Every scallop you find represents a small victory, and by the end of the day, you'll have earned every single bite.
The Florida Bay Scallop is the star of this show, and understanding their behavior makes all the difference between a good day and a great one. These bivalves are surprisingly active creatures – they can actually swim by rapidly opening and closing their shells, which creates a jet propulsion effect. You'll often spot them "flying" through the water column when they get spooked, which is both hilarious and helpful since the movement catches your eye. Bay scallops prefer sandy areas mixed with sea grass, typically in 4 to 6 feet of water where there's good current flow but protection from heavy wave action. They're filter feeders, which means they're constantly cleaning the water around them – another reason why they taste so clean and sweet. The best hunting happens early morning or late afternoon when they're most active. During midday heat, they tend to burrow deeper into the grass, making them trickier to spot. What guests love most about scalloping is the instant gratification – unlike fishing where you might go hours between bites, a good scallop bed can keep you busy for hours with constant action.
Here's the deal: scallop season is short, sweet, and books up fast. This isn't something you can do year-round, which makes it even more special when the season opens. We're running 6-hour charters with a 4-person max, which means you'll get the personal attention you deserve and access to the honey holes that produce consistently. For an extra $20 per gallon, we'll clean your scallops on the boat – trust me, after 6 hours of hunting, you'll want to kick back and let us handle the cleaning while you plan your feast. Whether you're a Florida native who's never tried scalloping or a visitor looking for an authentic North Florida experience, this trip delivers something you can't get anywhere else. The season won't last forever, and the best beds get picked over as the weeks go on, so don't wait. Book your spot now and get ready for one of the most unique and rewarding days you'll spend on the water.
The Pathfinder 2500 Hybrid is your ticket to North Florida's prime scalloping grounds. This 25-footer draws just 13 inches, perfect for cruising the shallow grass flats where bay scallops hang out. The Yamaha 300 gets you to the hotspots fast, while the wireless trolling motor keeps things quiet when you're positioning over productive beds. The flybridge gives your captain great visibility to spot those telltale scallop beds in 3-8 feet of water. Below deck, there's plenty of room for up to 4 guests to gear up with masks and snorkels. The fish finder helps locate underwater structure where scallops love to hide, and GPS keeps you on the productive spots you've marked. With an icebox to keep your catch fresh and VHF radio for safety, this boat handles everything from the shallow grass flats of Franklin County to the deeper edges near Port St. Joe. The wide 8.5-foot beam provides stable footing when you're climbing back aboard with your net full of scallops.
Eastpoint, FL