Florida's Scallop Season 2025: Dates, Limits, and How to Join the Fun!

Franklin County, Florida - As summer heats up, Floridians are eagerly anticipating the beginning of scalloping season, a beloved tradition that brings families and friends together on the water. With the upcoming scalloping season poised to start, it’s time to brush up on the details for this exciting recreational activity.

Starting June 15, the bay scallop harvesting season kicks off in the Fenholloway through Suwannee Rivers Zone, which includes the scenic waters of Dixie County, along with Keaton Beach and Steinhatchee in Taylor County. This season will last until Labor Day, September 1, as reported by Fox 13 News. But the fun doesn’t stop there; additional harvesting opportunities occur in various parts of Florida, opening up at different times throughout the summer.

Season Schedule

The scalloping season spans multiple zones in Florida, kicking off with the following dates and areas:

• Fenholloway through Suwannee Rivers Zone: June 15 – Labor Day
• Franklin County through Northwestern Taylor County: July 1 – September 24
• Levy, Citrus, and Hernando Counties: July 1 – September 24
• Pasco Zone: July 10 – August 18
• St. Joseph Bay and Gulf County: August 16 – September 24

Whether you’re a seasoned scalloper or a newbie just learning the ropes, there’s something for everyone as you sift through the underwater beds for these coveted treasures.

Bag Limits & Regulations

Harvesting scallops isn’t just about diving in; it comes with specific rules to ensure sustainability. For the Fenholloway through Suwannee River Zone from June 15 to June 30, the daily bag limit is 1 gallon of whole scallops in the shell or 1 cup of shucked meat per person. A maximum of 5 gallons can be collected per vessel. Once the season extends past June into July, the limit increases to 2 gallons per person and 10 gallons per vessel daily through Labor Day, as noted by Florida Politics.

It’s vital for scallopers to use hand-harvesting methods or dip nets. Just so you know, commercial harvesting is strictly prohibited during this recreational season. As for size, well, there’s no minimum size limit, which means you can gather whatever you find!

And remember, a Florida saltwater fishing license is required to legally harvest scallops unless you meet specific exemptions. This includes those under 16 years old or anyone wading from shore with a no-cost shoreline fishing license, as stated by Fishing and Fish.

Where to Find Scallops

The landscape offers plenty of sites that are popular among scallopers. From the scenic St. Joseph Bay and the Big Bend area to Crystal River and the Homosassa River, each spot has its charm and unique aquatic life. Just remember, before you hit the water, it pays to check local regulations and updates on what you can and cannot do in each area.

As we gear up for a summer filled with sun, sea, and scallops, let’s dive in responsibly and enjoy the bounty of Florida’s beautiful waters. Whether you’re out for a day of fun with friends or a tranquil afternoon with family, the scalloping season promises unforgettable memories and delicious seafood to savor. Happy harvesting!