Scalloping in Crystal River: A Beginner's Guide

Scalloping in Crystal River is a summer tradition on Florida's Nature Coast. You snorkel in shallow, grassy water off the coast, spot little bay scallops tucked in the seagrass, and pick them up by hand. It feels like an underwater Easter egg hunt. Kids love it, and so do grown-ups.

Quail Roost RV Park is a short drive from the Crystal River boat ramps and charter docks, so you can head out in the morning and be back at your site for a nap by the pool.

When is scallop season in Crystal River?

The Citrus County bay scallop season usually opens in early July and runs into September. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) sets the exact dates, bag limits and rules each year, and they can change. Always check the FWC website before you go.

What you need

• A Florida saltwater fishing license, unless you go with a licensed charter that covers you. Check FWC for current license rules.
• Mask, snorkel and fins. The water is often only 4 to 10 feet deep.
• A mesh bag to hold your scallops.
• A dive flag. Florida law requires a divers-down flag when you're in the water.
• Sunscreen, water and snacks. The Gulf sun is strong.

Go with a charter your first time

If you've never been, book a scalloping charter out of Crystal River. The captain knows where the scallops are that week, brings the gear, handles the flag and keeps an eye on everyone in the water. Many charters will also show you how to clean your catch. Book early, since July weekends fill up quickly.

How to find scallops

Swim slowly over the seagrass and look for the bright blue eyes along the edge of each shell. Scallops can swim by clapping their shells, so move in calmly and grab gently. Leave the seagrass alone and don't dig. Healthy grass means more scallops next year.

Cleaning and cooking your catch

Keep scallops on ice right away. To clean them, open the shell with a dull knife or spoon, scrape out everything but the small white muscle, and rinse it in cold water. Sauté them in butter and garlic for a minute or two per side. That's it. Some local restaurants will even cook your cleaned catch for you.

Stay close to the water

Scallop season is busy on the Nature Coast. A full hookup site at Quail Roost gives you a quiet place to come back to after a long day on the Gulf. Our summer rates run from May 1 through October 31, and weekly stays make a scalloping trip easy to plan.

Check our summer rates, or send the office a message to ask about open dates.