Excitement Builds: Florida's 2025 Scalloping Season Dates Announced!

Taylor County, Florida, USA - As summer approaches, Florida’s waters are gearing up for a delightful tradition: the 2025 scalloping season is just around the corner! The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation (FWC) has announced the official start dates, much to the excitement of seafood lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. For those chasing this delectable bivalve, let’s dive into the details of when and where you can grab your snorkel gear and jump in!

Starting on Sunday, June 15, 2025, those in the Fenholloway through Suwannee River Zone can embark on their scalloping adventures. This picturesque region includes several hotspots such as Keaton Beach, known for its scenic beauty and vibrant marine life. Meanwhile, scalloping in the Franklin—NW Taylor County and Levy, Citrus, and Hernando counties zone kicks off a bit later on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. If you’re hanging out in Pasco County, you’ll need to wait until Thursday, July 10, 2025, to start harvesting your share. Lastly, the Gulf County zone officially opens on Saturday, August 16, 2025, wrapping up a summer filled with aquatic treasure hunts and culinary delights.

Harvesting the Bounty

This year, the state has laid out some clear rules for those eager to dive into the harvest. Bay scallops (Argopecten irradians) flourish in the shallow, nearshore waters that stretch from Anclote Key in Pasco County all the way to Mexico Beach canal in Bay County, an area lovingly known as the Nature Coast or the Big Bend. Here, you’ll find them clinging to seagrass beds, identifiable by their striking electric blue eyes.

FWC guidelines indicate that you will need a valid Florida saltwater fishing license to collect scallops unless you’re wading from shore with a no-cost shoreline fishing license. Keep in mind, if you are just enjoying the water and not venturing out with diving gear or a vessel, you’re exempt from this requirement.

• Legal Harvest Dates by Region:
• Fenholloway through Suwannee Rivers Zone: June 15 – Labor Day
• Franklin County through Northwestern Taylor County: July 1 – Sept. 24
• Levy, Citrus, and Hernando Counties: July 1 – Sept. 24
• Pasco Zone: July 10 – Aug. 18
• St. Joseph Bay and Gulf County: Aug. 16 – Sept. 24

With daily limits set to ensure sustainable harvesting, per person allowances vary by region. For example, those in ridge counties can take up to two gallons of whole bay scallops or one pint of bay scallop meat. Make sure you respect these limits and local regulations to preserve Florida’s precious marine resources. Notably, extracting scallops must be done exclusively by hand or using a landing or dip net; commercial harvesting? Not in this fun-filled adventure!

Preparing for the Hunt

Before you hit the water, there’s a checklist to consider! To get ready, gather your snorkel gear, a mesh bag or dip net for gathering those elusive scallops, and don’t forget water, sunscreen, and a hat. If you tend to feel chilly, toss in a wetsuit or sun suit for added comfort. For those who like to be extra prepared, gloves and dive gear can enhance your experience.

Safety first! Make sure your boat is equipped with necessary safety gear, including life jackets for all passengers, a divers down flag, and a whistle for emergencies. A cooler full of ice will also help keep your catch fresh and delicious!

The 2025 scalloping season promises to be filled with adventure and camaraderie as families and friends gather to explore Florida’s unique underwater ecosystems. Let’s make the most of this opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy some of the freshest seafood around!

For more detailed information, including harvesting regulations and the latest updates, be sure to visit ECB Publishing, Nature Coast, and Florida Sea Grant.