Cape San Blas Scallop Season

Scallop season in Cape San Blas takes place each fall, and it's one of the best times of the year to visit. From August 16 - September 24, locals and visitors are allowed to go scallop harvesting in the waters of the St. Joseph Bay and Gulf County.  Whether you choose to venture out from the shore or charter a boat to find the best location, harvesting is great for all ages and skill levels. With average temperatures in the low 80s this time of the year, Cape San Blas is an idyllic beach destination.

If you're planning a trip to Cape San Blas to go scalloping, there are some things to keep in mind. Use this guide to help you plan your next scalloping trip in Cape San Blas. and check out our first-timer’s guide for even more tips and tricks.

When is scallop season in Cape San Blas?

The official scalloping season runs from August 16 - September 24 annually. During this time, the waters from Mexico Beach Canal in Bay County to the westernmost point of St. Vincent Island in Franklin County are open for scallop harvesting. Cape San Blas sits perfectly within this zone, with St. Joseph Bay being one of the most productive and accessible areas for both beginners and experienced scallopers.

Where to Look for Scallops

During this time, the waters of the Mexico Beach Canal in Bay County to the westernmost point of St. Vincent Island in Franklin County are open for scallop harvesting. Here are the best spots to look:

St. Joseph Bay - The crown jewel of Cape San Blas scalloping. This protected bay offers:

• Shallow waters (4-8 feet deep) perfect for snorkeling
• Extensive seagrass beds where scallops thrive
• Protection from Gulf swells
• Easy boat access from multiple ramps

Key Areas Within St. Joseph Bay:

• Grass beds near Cape San Blas State Park - Accessible by kayak or small boat
• Eastern shoreline - Great for wading and snorkeling from shore
• Middle bay grass flats - Requires boat access but often less crowded
• Near St. Joseph Peninsula - Deeper waters with larger scallops

Mexico Beach Canal Area - Northern boundary of the season St. Vincent Island Waters - Southern boundary, more adventurous but rewarding

What Do You Need to Go Scalloping

Required Items:

• Florida Saltwater Fishing License - Purchase online
• Dive flag - Required by law when in the water
• Mask, snorkel, and fins - Quality gear makes all the difference
• Mesh bag - For collecting scallops underwater
• Cooler with ice - To keep scallops fresh
• Cleaning knife or spoon - For processing your catch
• Other helpful items include reef-safe sunscreen, food/snacks & plenty of water

Boat Considerations

While you can scallop from shore in some areas, a boat opens up the best spots:

• Kayak or canoe - Perfect for shallow bay areas
• Center console boat - Ideal for groups and longer trips
• Pontoon boat - Great family option with easy water entry
• Charter boat - Let experts guide you to prime locations

How to Harvest Scallops: A Quick Guide

Scallops live in water that is typically 4 to 8 feet deep. It's easiest to find them in clear water around seagrass beds. Look around the edges of seagrass beds for your best chance of catching them. Using your snorkel, mask, and fins, slowly glide through the water looking for scallops. Bring along a mesh bag to store scallops while you're harvesting.

Harvesting Technique

1. Approach slowly - Quick movements scare scallops away
2. Grab gently but firmly - Scallops can swim away quickly
3. Check size - Must have shells that measure at least 3 inches
4. Place in mesh bag - Keep them secure while continuing to hunt
5. Stay aware of your dive flag - Always surface nearby

Storing and Handling Scallops

• Keep alive - Use a live well or bucket with fresh seawater
• Avoid freshwater - Kills scallops quickly
• Ice only when ready to clean - Keep them alive as long as possible
• Clean promptly - Process within hours of harvesting for best taste 

If you're storing scallops on ice, be sure to keep them away from the water runoff as scallops are very sensitive to temperature and type of water. The best option is to keep them in a live well right up until you're going to clean them, which is when it's a good time to put them on ice. 

The daily bag limit per person of scallops in the shell is 2 gallons or one pint of scallop meat per person.

Plan Your Cape San Blas Scalloping Adventure 

Experience the thrill of harvesting your own fresh scallops in the crystal-clear waters of Cape San Blas. Our Cape San Blas vacation rentals provide the perfect base camp for your scalloping adventure, from bay front properties that give you easy access to St. Joseph Bay, spacious home with room to store your gear, and full kitchens for preparing your fresh catch.

Explore our complete Cape San Blas area guide for more activities, dining recommendations, and local insights to make your scalloping vacation unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of day to go scalloping?

Early morning (7-10 AM) typically offers the calmest conditions and best underwater visibility. Scallops are active throughout the day, but morning conditions are usually most comfortable for snorkelers.

Can children participate in scalloping?

Absolutely! Scalloping is excellent for families. Children as young as 5 can participate in shallow areas with proper supervision. It's educational and creates lasting memories.

What if I don't find any scallops?

Scallop populations vary by location and conditions. If you're not finding scallops in one area, try different grass beds or ask local bait shops for current hot spots. Even experienced scallopers have slow days.

How do I clean scallops?

Here is a quick method to cleaning scallops:

• Hold scallop firmly - Dark shell up, flat shell down
• Insert knife - Slide along the flat bottom shell
• Cut adductor muscle - The round muscle that closes the shell
• Remove meat - Scoop out the white muscle and orange roe (if desired)
• Rinse thoroughly - Remove any sand or debris

How long do fresh scallops last?

Fresh scallops should be consumed within 24-48 hours of harvesting for optimal taste and safety. They can be frozen for up to 3 months if properly stored.