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You're in good hands

Book your trip with confidence — We only work with the best local guides that know where to put you on fish.

About Your Trip

Water Type

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats

Skill Levels

Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Weather

You won’t lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather.

About Your Trip

Experience the thrill of an underwater treasure hunt! Plunging into the clear, sun-drenched waters of Florida’s west coast in pursuit of sweet bay scallops is a cherished summer tradition for locals and a captivating adventure for visitors. With the arrival of the warm summer months, the short but sweet scalloping season transforms the shallow seagrass beds into an aquatic playground. Imagine gliding through the invitingly warm water, the sun dappling the sandy bottom, as you discover these delightful bivalves nestled amongst the swaying green blades. It’s more than just harvesting seafood; it’s an immersive encounter with the natural beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast, creating lasting memories for the whole family. Don’t miss the chance to partake in this unique and rewarding coastal experience!

Scalloping for bay scallops in Florida’s clear, shallow seagrass beds along the west coast is a beloved summer activity. To participate, you’ll need snorkel gear, a mesh bag for collection, a saltwater fishing license (unless exempt), and a dive flag if boating. Popular scalloping areas include Crystal River, Homosassa, St. Marks, and St. Joseph Bay, with specific season dates and bag limits varying by region. The primary method involves snorkeling or wading and hand-collecting the scallops you spot on the bottom, though a small dip net can be helpful. Success hinges on finding healthy seagrass beds in clear water, typically 4 to 8 feet deep. While there’s no official minimum size, using a 2-inch sorter is recommended for sustainable harvesting. Always be mindful of and adhere to the current regulations set by the FWC regarding season dates, bag limits, and closed areas. Responsible shell disposal is also important to protect the coastal environment. Enjoy this unique and engaging way to experience Florida’s natural beauty and harvest a delicious seafood treat!

Crystal River stands out for its exceptional water clarity, thanks to the influx of freshwater springs, which significantly improves scallop visibility. The area’s vast and healthy seagrass beds support a robust scallop population, often leading to more plentiful harvests. Adding to the uniqueness is the high likelihood of encountering manatees and other diverse marine life during your scalloping excursion, transforming it into a richer wildlife viewing opportunity alongside the rewarding scallop hunt. This combination of clear waters, abundant scallops, and potential wildlife encounters creates a particularly special scalloping experience in Crystal River.

Scalloping in Pasco County’s Anclote region is unique due to its location near the Anclote River and Anclote Key Preserve State Park, creating a diverse scalloping environment influenced by the mixing of fresh and saltwater and the presence of varied coastal habitats like seagrass, sandbars, and mangroves. This area offers the distinct advantage of combining scalloping with a visit to the beautiful and remote Anclote Key, allowing for a day trip that encompasses both harvesting and exploring a pristine barrier island with its beaches, birdlife, and historic lighthouse, making it a memorable coastal experience despite potentially fluctuating scallop densities.

Scalloping is a fantastic family adventure! It offers a unique blend of outdoor activity, exploration, and the thrill of a treasure hunt that appeals to a wide range of ages.~ Relatively Easy and Accessible: Unlike deep-sea fishing or strenuous hikes, scalloping in the shallow seagrass beds is generally accessible to most fitness levels and ages. Kids can often participate alongside adults with proper supervision.
~ Engaging and Interactive: The act of snorkeling or wading and actively searching for scallops keeps everyone engaged. It’s like an underwater Easter egg hunt! The discovery of each scallop brings a sense of accomplishment and excitement.
~ Educational Opportunity: Scalloping provides a wonderful chance to learn about marine life and the importance of coastal ecosystems. Kids (and adults!) can observe seagrass, different types of fish, and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
~ Quality Time Together: Being out on the water, working together to find scallops, and enjoying the beautiful scenery creates lasting family memories. It’s a chance to disconnect from screens and connect with each other and nature.
~ The Reward of the Harvest: The satisfaction of collecting your own fresh seafood and then preparing and enjoying it together adds another layer of fun and accomplishment to the experience.

Amenities

Water Type

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats

Skill Levels

Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Tackle

All rods, reels, and tackle are included.

Fish Cleaning

This guide will clean your catch for you.

Beer

Feel free to enjoy responsibly, but please no glass.

Music

You can play your own bluetooth music.

Live Bait

Live bait is included for this trip.

Location

This guide can be flexible with the departure location.

Weather

You won’t lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather.

Kid Friendly

This trip can cater to small children.

Flexible Cancelation

This trip can be canceled up to 7 days before the trip.

Physicality

This trip requires an easy level of physical activity.

Boat Restroom

No, this boat does not have a bathroom on board.

Disability Friendly

This trip is not suited for those with disabilities.

Lunch

Please provide your own food / snacks.

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Pricing Matrix

	5 hours	7 hours
1 Person	$400.00	$600.00
2 People	$400.00	$600.00
3 People	$500.00	$700.00
4 People	$500.00	$700.00
5 People	$600.00	$800.00
6 People	$600.00	$800.00

Pay 25% of the price as a deposit today, with the balance due on the day of the trip.

About Your Guide

Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.

Jarrod W.

Certified Damn Good Guide

Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.

Independent Guide

Talkative

Laid-back

Instructional

Beginner Oriented

Adventurous

Quality

About Your Guide

Jarrod W.

Certified Damn Good Guide

Independent Guide

Captain Jarrod is a second generation captain. Born in New York, he transplanted to Florida in 2014.

In his words: "From as early as I can remember, my dad had me on a boat with a fishing rod in my hands. At first, I was simply excited to have bait on my hook and hang with my dad. As I grew up the fish got bigger and bigger… and I was hooked! Growing up in New York, we would fish for Fluke, Flounder, Stripers & Cod in the winter. We would also enter the occasional shark fishing tournament. Fishing was, and still remains, a huge part of my life and it gave my father and I the time we needed to bond, before he unexpectedly left us in 2006.

Since moving to Florida in 2014, I have been fishing this fishery with friends and competing in local tournaments. From King of the Beach, a well known Offshore King Fish tournament, to a local firefighter charity tournament.

In 2018, I went to Sea School to become a captain. After graduating, I purchased my boat and here we are. Living the dream!

It was always my father’s dream to retire and use his captains license to open a charter business. Every day, I strive to keep his legacy alive. It is my dream, to have that same experience with my daughter, while helping other families experience the water, as I once did, as a boy, with my father.

My favorite fish to catch in New York was definitely Bluefish! Pound for pound, the best fight to find. In Florida, my favorite fish has to be Redfish. There is nothing like their hard slam & drag-screaming runs. The fish itself is beautiful, and every one has different spots. Will your next redfish have 1 giant spot, 2 spots or 10? Book a charter and come find out!"

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Rapid Fire Guide Q & A

What’s the biggest fish you’ve caught?

Tuna

If you were cooking for all your friends what would you cook?

Fish

Rapid Fire Guide Q & A

What’s the biggest fish you’ve caught?

Tuna

If you were cooking for all your friends what would you cook?

Fish

What’s your favorite band?

Shinedown

What’s your favorite movie?

Top Gun

What’s your favorite sports team?

Tampa Bay Lightning

What’s your drink of choice?

Diet Coke

What was your last halloween costume?

Fisherman

What do you want for Christmas this year?

A Miracle

How did you get started guiding?

I am a 2nd generation captain.

What makes you different from other guides?

Experience, Personality and Fun!

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Start Location & Lodging Options

Your guide can be flexible with your start location.

You can work with your guide after booking to set a more specific start location in the area.

Holiday, Florida

Areas Fished

About Your Boat

Boat photo for Scalloping Hunts Tarpon Springs

1/12

Boat Type: Bay Boat
Boat Manufacturer: Sportsman
Year Built: 2019
Boat Length: 25'

About Your Boat

Boat Type: Bay Boat
Boat Manufacturer: Sportsman
Year Built: 2019
Boat Length: 25'
Boat Restroom: No
Engine Manufacturer: Yamaha
Total Horsepower: 250
Number of Engines: 1
Additional Amenities: GPS, Fishfinder, Snorkeling Equipment, Live Bait Well, Multimedia System, Wireless Trolling Motor, Ice Box

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Trip Details & Amenities

Water Type

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats

Skill Levels

Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Tackle

All rods, reels, and tackle are included.

Fish Cleaning

This guide will clean your catch for you.

Beer

Feel free to enjoy responsibly, but please no glass.

Music

You can play your own bluetooth music.

Live Bait

Live bait is included for this trip.

Location

This guide can be flexible with the departure location.

Weather

You won't lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather.

Kid Friendly

This trip can cater to small children.

Flexible Cancelation

This trip can be canceled up to 7 days before the trip.

Physicality

This trip requires an easy level of physical activity.

Boat Restroom

No, this boat does not have a bathroom on board.

Disability Friendly

This trip is not suited for those with disabilities.

Lunch

Please provide your own food / snacks.

Target Species

Color-coded seasonality below is based on .

View Full Species Seasonality Chart » View Recent Holiday Fishing Reports »

Get it while it's HOT!
This species is in play.
You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

Techniques

Scalloping

Everything Else to Know

We recommend bringing sunglasses, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and any gear (Fins, Mask & Snorkel) of your own you want to use on the trip. Do NOT bring coolers. There are coolers with ice on board for your drinks and snacks.

You're all set! You don't need to buy a license for this trip.

We use a cashless autopay system. We'll send you a boarding pass, and on the day of the trip, your guide will scan your boarding pass to automatically transfer the remaining balance. The only cash needed is to tip your guide (we recommend 20%).

Cancel for free up to 7 days before the trip and receive credit back to your account. Cancelling within 7 of the trip will forfeit your deposit to the guide. Day-of cancellations and no-shows will be charged the full balance of the trip to their card.

In the event of inclement weather you'll be covered by out 100% Weather Guarantee and will not lose your deposit.

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First Time Booking with Us?

Captain Experiences is home to thousands of quality, vetted fishing, hunting, and other outdoor sports guides across the US and beyond. Our mission is to Unlock the Outdoors by making it quick and easy to book the trip of a lifetime every time with our Damn Good Guides.

We vet our guides and only partner with the best of the best. Our guides do their very best to keep you safe, show you a great time, and send you home with a memorable experience shared with family and friends.

Once you've paid your deposit at checkout, we'll send you a QR Code boarding pass. Just show your guide your boarding pass on the day of the trip, they'll scan it, the remaining balance will transfer automatically, and you'll be all set to get out there. Just make sure you bring a cash tip for the guide!

In the event of inclement weather, our guides will check the conditions and make the final call on whether its safe to go on the trip. If they decide the trip needs to be postponed, we'll work closely with you to reschedule or provide a credit for the full deposit, which can be applied to any of our trips in the US and beyond.

Each trip's price is determined by the guide and reflects all associated costs. A significant factor in pricing is often the type of boat and the corresponding fuel expenses. Additional costs may include leases, marina or slip fees, and the expenses involved in providing and maintaining the necessary gear for your trip.

After booking your trip, we'll connect you directly with your guide to discuss additional details. In the meantime, our team is here to answer any questions via email, text, or phone.