Steinhatchee’s Underwater Treasure Hunt: Scallop Season 2025

Florida’s Gulf Coast offers many unique experiences, but few match the excitement and family fun of scallop season in Steinhatchee. Often called “nature’s egg hunt,” this annual event draws visitors from across the region who come to harvest these delicious mollusks in the clear, shallow waters of the Gulf.

When to Go: The 2025 Season Dates

For the 2025 scallop season, Steinhatchee and the surrounding Fenholloway-Suwannee River Zone will once again welcome scallop hunters from June 15 through Labor Day (September 1, 2025). This area includes all state waters east of Rock Island near the mouth of the Fenholloway River in Taylor County and north of Alligator Pass daybeacon #4 near the mouth of the Suwanee River in Levy County.

Something to note for early-season scallopers: during the first two weeks (June 15-30), harvest limits are restricted to half the regular limit. This early-season restriction helps maintain sustainable scallop populations.

Know Your Limits: Harvesting Regulations

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has established the following limits for the 2025 season:

June 15-30, 2025:

• 1 gallon of whole bay scallops in shell or 1 cup of shucked meat per person
• Maximum 5 gallons of whole scallops or 2 pints of meat per vessel

July 1-September 1, 2025:

• 2 gallons of whole bay scallops in shell or 1 pint of meat per person
• Maximum 10 gallons of whole scallops or 1/2 gallon of meat per vessel

Remember that vessel limits don’t allow individuals to exceed their personal bag limit. A Florida saltwater fishing license is required unless you’re exempt or have a no-cost shoreline fishing license and are wading from shore.

What You’ll Need: Essential Gear

Scalloping requires minimal equipment, making it accessible for most families:

• Mask, snorkel, and fins
• Mesh bag for collecting scallops
• Dive flag (required by law)
• Boat or charter service (while not strictly necessary, most scalloping spots require water access)
• Cooler with ice to keep your catch fresh

Where to Look: Finding Scallop Hotspots

Steinhatchee offers several popular scalloping locations:

• 6 miles north (Big Grassy Island)
• 2-3 miles south of the Steinhatchee channel
• 4-5 miles south (Rocky Creek)
• 6-7 miles south (Pepperfish Keys)

The best hunting grounds are typically in 3-6 feet of clear water with healthy seagrass beds. Look for groups of boats—they often mark productive areas, though don’t worry about overcrowding as scallops are usually abundant enough for everyone to meet their limits.

Timing Your Hunt: Tips from Locals

Experienced scallopers suggest planning your hunt around the tides. The ideal time is from about two hours before low tide until two hours after. During this window, the current is minimal, seagrass stands upright (making scallops easier to spot), and the water is shallower.

After the Hunt: Cleaning Your Catch

Cleaning scallops can be time-consuming but is relatively simple once you get the hang of it:

1. Chill the scallops first (cold scallops open more easily)
2. Use a scallop knife or sharpened spoon to open the shell
3. Remove and discard everything except the white muscle (the edible portion)

If cleaning isn’t your thing, Steinhatchee has plenty of roadside services that will clean your catch for a reasonable fee—just look for the signs.

Where to Stay: Plan Early and Call Ahead

Due to scallop season’s popularity, accommodations in Steinhatchee fill up quickly. Most hotels and rentals implement special event policies from June 17 through September 4, requiring advance deposits and early payment.

Important 2025 Update: When planning your visit, be aware that Steinhatchee is still recovering from recent hurricane damage. Many accommodations, marinas, and businesses are in various stages of rebuilding. Before booking, contact properties directly to confirm their operational status and available amenities. The community is working diligently to rebuild, but some areas remain works in progress. This recovery period might actually provide a less crowded scalloping experience, though with fewer accommodation options.

Local businesses appreciate visitor support during this rebuilding phase, so your patronage is especially valuable to the community. If your preferred lodging isn’t available, consider nearby alternatives in Perry or other neighboring communities that offer reasonable driving distance to scalloping launch sites.

Why Steinhatchee?

While several Gulf Coast communities offer scalloping, Steinhatchee remains a premier destination. Its clear waters, abundant scallop populations, and small-town charm create the perfect setting for this unique summer activity. Unlike many tourist destinations, Steinhatchee maintains its authentic “Old Florida” atmosphere, giving visitors a genuine coastal experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned scalloper or trying it for the first time, Steinhatchee offers one of Florida’s most distinctive and enjoyable outdoor adventures. The combination of beautiful scenery, underwater exploration, and delicious rewards makes scallop season a highlight of the summer calendar—and the 2025 season promises to continue this delicious tradition.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for entertainment and informational purposes only. The information contained herein is based on historical patterns and publicly available information as of April 2025. Season dates, harvest limits, and local conditions are subject to change. This content is not an official recommendation, and readers should always verify current regulations with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) before planning their trip. Always check local conditions, especially regarding hurricane recovery status, and follow all safety guidelines when scalloping.