Last Updated on July 6, 2022 by Eric Bonneman
The 2022 season has just begun, and the weather is perfect for swimming, boating, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. If you’re looking for a fun and exciting summer activity to do, look no further than scalloping in Crystal River, Florida. This is a must-do summer activity with crystal-clear water and acres of seagrass beds teeming with scallops. So pack your swimsuit and sunscreen and head on down to enjoy some fresh bay scallops!
Crystal River Scallops
Crystal River is home to a large population of bay scallops harvested during the summer months. These scallops have a light brown or tan shell and a creamy white interior. They have a sweet, delicate flavor that is often compared to shrimp or lobster. Bay scallops are typically cooked in lightly seasoned butter or olive oil, and they make a delicious addition to any seafood dish.
During the scallop season, many restaurants in Crystal River offer special scallop dishes, making it the perfect time to sample this local delicacy.
About Bay Scallops
Bay scallops are a type of bivalve mollusk found in shallow, coastal waters. They have a distinctive fan-shaped shell and are prized for their sweet flavor and delicate texture. Bay scallops are found in seagrass beds around Crystal River because the seagrass provides them with shelter from predators and waves, and the clear waters allow for plenty of sunlight to reach the seagrass beds.
The seagrass beds also provide a rich source of food for the bay scallops, including microscopic algae, crustaceans, and small mollusks. In addition, the warm waters of Crystal River are ideal for bay scallops, as they prefer temperatures between 68 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
As a result, the combination of these factors makes Crystal River an ideal habitat for bay scallops.
Go DIY Or With A Guide?
Scalloping is a fun and relatively easy way to get out on the water and gather your own fresh seafood dinner. Crystal River, Florida, is one of the best places in the state to go scalloping. The season generally runs from July to September, but the exact dates can vary from year to year.
During scalloping season, you can expect to find plenty of scallops in the shallow water grass flats. Most scallops range in size from a quarter to as big as a half-dollar. To harvest them, simply swim over to a scallop and scoop it up. You can also look for them by diving down to the bottom and spotting their white shells against the dark sand. Once you have gathered a good number of scallops (within legal limits), simply put them in a cooler with some ice.
Scalloping is fun and relatively easy, but hiring a local guide is the best way to maximize your chances of success. A local guide knows all the best spots for scalloping, and they can also provide you with tips and techniques for getting the most out of your trip. A local guide can also help you navigate the sometimes tricky waters of Crystal River. With a little help from a local expert, you’re sure to have a scalloping adventure that you’ll never forget.
Come Scalloping With Us On A Private Boat
Scalloping in Crystal River is a great way to enjoy the Florida sunshine and get out on the water. The best bet for scalloping, however, is to hire a guide. Florida Fishing Adventures is the premiere scalloping guide in Crystal River and can ensure that you have a great experience.
We know the best spots for scalloping and can provide all the equipment you need. So what are you waiting for? Book now and experience the best of Crystal River scalloping.
