Get your gear ready for the 2024 recreational bay scallop season in the Pasco Zone! From July 10 to August 18, you can enjoy scalloping in all state waters south of the Hernando-Pasco county line and north of the Anclote Key Lighthouse in northern Pinellas County, including the Anclote River.
Bag Limits
Here's what you need to know about daily limits:
- Per Person: Up to 2 gallons of whole bay scallops in the shell or 1 pint of bay scallop meat.
- Per Vessel: A maximum of 10 gallons of whole bay scallops in the shell or 1/2 gallon (4 pints) of shucked scallop meat.
Remember, even with vessel limits, no one can exceed their individual daily bag limit.
New Season Dates
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) recently updated the season dates for the Pasco Zone. These changes are based on the 2023 post-season monitoring results by FWC’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute and feedback from various public meetings. For more details, check out the presentation from the February 2024 Commission meeting on the FWC's website under “Commission Meetings.”
Transit Rules
If you're traveling through areas where scallop harvesting is closed, you can still transport your legally harvested scallops. Just make sure not to stop your boat in these closed waters and head straight to your dock or ramp.
Licensing Requirements
To harvest bay scallops, you’ll need a Florida saltwater fishing license unless you're exempt or have a no-cost shoreline fishing license (for those wading from shore without swimming, snorkeling, or using a boat). You can get your license at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com, by calling 888-FISH-FLORIDA (888-347-4356), or through the Fish|Hunt FL app on Apple and Android devices.
Boater Safety Tips
Safety first! Always wear a life jacket when you're on the water. Many boating fatalities involve people who could swim but weren't wearing life jackets. Over 60% of boating deaths in Florida are from drowning after falling overboard, and 80% of those victims weren’t wearing life jackets. Stay safe and wear yours! Learn more at MyFWC.com/Boating under “Boating Regulations” and “Boating Accidents.”
Seagrass Awareness
Protect Florida’s seagrass beds! It’s illegal to damage these vital habitats in certain state waters. Stay within marked channels and avoid shallow waters with seagrass to prevent propeller scars. Seagrasses support marine life, including manatees, green sea turtles, and bay scallops, and help purify our waters. For more on seagrass awareness, visit MyFWC.com/Boating and select “Seagrass Awareness.”
Keep It Clean: Stow It, Don’t Throw It
Please don't dump scallop shells in inshore waters near recreational spots. They can create hazards and damage seagrass habitats. Dispose of shells in trash receptacles or larger bodies of water where they can disperse. Secure your trash on board to prevent littering.
Happy scalloping and stay safe out there!