Florida’s bay scallop season is a beloved tradition for both residents and visitors, offering the opportunity to harvest these delectable shellfish along the Gulf Coast. Each year, specific zones open at different times, with regulations to ensure sustainable harvesting. Here's a look at the upcoming openings for the various bay scallop zones, including area details, bag limits, and season dates.
St. Joseph Bay and Gulf County Zone
- Area: This zone encompasses St. Joseph Bay and extends into the Gulf County waters.
- Season Dates: August 16 through September 24, 2024.
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Bag Limits:
- Per Person: Up to 2 gallons of whole bay scallops or 1 pint of bay scallop meat per day.
- Per Vessel: Maximum of 10 gallons of whole bay scallops or 1/2 gallon of bay scallop meat per day.
Franklin – Northwest Taylor County Zone
- Area: This zone covers areas from the west bank of the Mexico Beach Canal in Bay County to the westernmost point of St. Vincent Island, excluding the buffer zone around the islands.
- Season Dates: July 1 through September 24, 2024.
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Bag Limits:
- Per Person: Up to 2 gallons of whole bay scallops or 1 pint of bay scallop meat per day.
- Per Vessel: Maximum of 10 gallons of whole bay scallops or 1/2 gallon of bay scallop meat per day.
Levy, Citrus, Hernando Counties Zone
- Area: This zone spans from the southern side of the Fenholloway River to the Pasco-Hernando county line.
- Season Dates: July 1 through September 24, 2024.
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Bag Limits:
- Per Person: Up to 2 gallons of whole bay scallops or 1 pint of bay scallop meat per day.
- Per Vessel: Maximum of 10 gallons of whole bay scallops or 1/2 gallon of bay scallop meat per day.
Harvesting Guidelines
When participating in scalloping, it’s crucial to follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
- Licensing: Ensure you have the appropriate saltwater fishing license if required.
- Safety Gear: Use dive flags when snorkeling or diving to signal your presence to boaters.
- Conservation: Practice responsible harvesting to preserve scallop populations for future seasons.
The diverse zones and carefully managed seasons ensure that everyone can enjoy the thrill of bay scalloping while supporting conservation efforts. Mark your calendars and prepare your gear for an unforgettable scalloping adventure this summer!
For detailed information and updates, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.