It's Time for Bay Scallop Season in Florida

It's that time of year again, where Florida locals and state visitors alike gather on the Gulf Coast to partake in the seasonal underwater Easter egg hunt, otherwise known as scallop season. The harvest begins July 1 and will remain open until August 6 from the Fenholloway to the Suwannee rivers.

Florida's Underwater Easter Egg Hunt

During this time, seafood lovers everywhere will venture to popular spots like Crystal River, Steinhatchee, and Port St. Joe to harvest their share of bay scallops.

If you're new to the concept, not only are scallops delicious to eat, but harvesting them makes for quite an adventurous day. Known for their electric blue eyes, you can find these sought-after scallops in seagrass beds under 3-8 feet of water along the state's west and northwest coasts.

Essentials for Bay Scallop Harvesting

This is a perfect activity for all ages. All you need is a mesh bag, mask and snorkels to collect your daily limit of either two gallons of whole bay scallops in their shell, or one cup of shucked bay scallop meat per person. You'll also need a Florida saltwater fishing license for each person participating, unless you choose to go on a chartered trip with a licensed and insured boat captain.

So grab your snorkel and mesh bag and make a reservation at one of our resorts while there's still room!  

Resorts Near the Gulf Coast

Best part of all, Sun Outdoors has several resorts located nearby Crystal River and along the Gulf Coast that are perfect for participating in this famous treasure hunt! Simply head down in your RV or rent one of our vacation rentals and start creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Right by the River:

Sun Retreats Homosassa River (All Ages)
10200 West Fishbowl Drive
Homosassa, Florida 34448

Sun Retreats Crystal River (All Ages)
237 South Rock Crusher Road
Crystal River, Florida 34429  

Within an Hour Drive:

Red Oaks RV Community (55+)
5551 SW 18th Terrace
Bushnell, Florida 33513

We hope this post has inspired you to harvest some Florida bay scallops on your own. It's a wonderful pastime in the Sunshine State that newcomers and enthusiasts look forward to each year.