Chassahowitzka Half-Day Scalloping Charter
Private Trip
Flats/Shallows Fishing
Halfday scalloping charter departing from Chassahowitzka Boat Ramp.Navigate scenic river to shallow Gulf waters and grass flats.Small group charter accommodates up to four guests maximum.
Get ready to experience some of the best scalloping on Florida's Nature Coast with this top-rated half-day charter from Chassahowitzka. We'll launch from the Chassahowitzka Boat Ramp and cruise through the crystal-clear waters of the scenic Chassahowitzka River system before hitting the shallow Gulf flats where bay scallops thrive. This area is renowned for its gin-clear water and healthy grass beds - perfect conditions for spotting those little brown shells hiding in the sand. With space for up to 4 guests, you'll have plenty of room to move around and dive comfortably while hunting for your daily bag limit.
This customer favorite charter kicks off early in the morning when the water is typically calmest and visibility is at its peak. The ride out through the Chassahowitzka River is something special - you'll wind through mangrove-lined channels and spring-fed waters that stay cool even in the heat of summer. Once we reach the scalloping grounds, you'll be amazed at how clear the water is here. Most spots are only 3-6 feet deep, making it easy for snorkelers of all skill levels to get down and search the grass flats. The bottom is mostly sandy with patches of seagrass where scallops love to hide. Don't worry if you're new to this - I'll show you exactly what to look for and how to spot those telltale shells nestled in the grass. The shallow nature of these flats means you won't need to be an expert swimmer, and the gentle current makes it comfortable to float and search at your own pace.
All the essential gear is provided, including masks, snorkels, and mesh bags for collecting your scallops. I recommend bringing your own mask if you have one that fits well - comfort is key when you're spending hours in the water. The technique is pretty straightforward: you'll float on the surface scanning the bottom for scallops, then duck dive down to grab them. Look for the dark brown shells with their distinctive ridged pattern - they'll often be partially buried in the sand or tucked under grass blades. Some scallops will actually swim away when they sense you coming, so you'll need to be quick with your hands. The legal size limit is fairly generous, but I'll help you identify keepers versus the smaller ones that need to go back. Water temperature stays comfortable most of the season thanks to the spring influence, usually running in the mid-70s to low 80s. We'll move between several productive spots depending on conditions and scallop density, always looking for those world-class grass beds that hold the most shellfish.
Bay scallops are the star of this show, and the Chassahowitzka area produces some of the plumpest, sweetest scallops you'll find anywhere along the Nature Coast. These bivalves are typically 2-4 inches across when fully grown, with beautiful fan-shaped shells marked by distinct ridges. What makes scalloping so exciting is that these little guys are actually quite mobile - they can swim by rapidly opening and closing their shells, which creates a jet propulsion effect. You'll often see them "clapping" across the bottom when they're startled, which never gets old to watch. Bay scallops are filter feeders that thrive in the clean, nutrient-rich waters around Chassahowitzka, feeding on plankton and organic particles in the water column. The scalloping season typically runs from July through September, with peak numbers usually showing up in August when the population has had time to mature. What guests love most about targeting scallops is the treasure hunt aspect - you're literally searching for hidden gems on the seafloor, and there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of spotting a big keeper nestled in the grass. Plus, the meat is absolutely delicious when prepared fresh, with a sweet, delicate flavor that's perfect for everything from ceviche to pan-seared medallions.
This half-day scalloping adventure offers the perfect blend of scenic beauty and hands-on marine harvesting that keeps guests coming back season after season. The Chassahowitzka area's pristine waters and abundant grass flats create ideal conditions for both novice and experienced scallopers to fill their bags with these prized shellfish. Whether you're looking to start a new family tradition or add some variety to your usual fishing routine, this charter delivers a unique way to connect with Florida's rich marine environment. The shallow, clear waters make it accessible for most fitness levels, while the scenic river cruise adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your day on the water. Don't wait to secure your dates - scalloping season is relatively short, and the best spots fill up quickly with repeat customers who know just how good the action can be here. Book your Chassahowitzka scalloping charter today and get ready to experience some of the Nature Coast's finest underwater hunting grounds.
This rugged 18-foot Grizzly all-welded Jon boat is purpose-built for navigating the shallow grass flats around Chassahowitzka's prime scalloping grounds. The shallow-draft design lets you get right into those crystal-clear waters where the best scallops hide, while the welded aluminum hull handles the oyster bars and rocky bottom with ease. Powered by a reliable 50HP Mercury outboard, she'll cruise smoothly at 26 knots through the winding Chassahowitzka River and out to the Gulf flats. The spacious deck comfortably fits up to 4 scalloping enthusiasts with plenty of room to move around while diving and sorting your catch. GPS navigation keeps you on the productive spots along Florida's Nature Coast, where the grass beds are thick and the scallops are plentiful. Perfect for families or small groups looking to experience some of the region's most productive scalloping waters without the crowds.
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