LEVY & CITRUS COUNTIES, FL (352today.com) — Florida’s bay scallop season is officially open in Levy and Citrus counties, giving locals and visitors a chance to dive into one of the Gulf Coast’s most beloved summer pastimes. Scalloping is now underway across coastal waters from Cedar Key to Homosassa and will remain open through Sept. 24.

Recreational harvesters can collect up to 2 gallons of whole scallops in the shell or 1 pint of scallop meat per person each day. Vessels are limited to a maximum of 10 gallons of whole scallops or 4 pints of meat, regardless of the number of people onboard. All scallops must be gathered by hand or with a dip or landing net—commercial harvesting is not allowed.

A valid Florida saltwater fishing license is required unless exempt. Waders collecting scallops from shore without swimming or using a boat may qualify for a no-cost shoreline license.

Stay safe on the water and protect marine life

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds boaters to designate a sober operator and follow all safety rules. When diving for scallops, stay within 300 feet of a divers-down flag in open water, or 100 feet in rivers and channels. Likewise, boaters must idle within those distances of any divers-down flag.

Seagrass beds—critical habitat for bay scallops and other marine life—should be protected. Boaters are urged to use navigation channels whenever possible and avoid damaging shallow grass beds with propellers.

To help keep popular inshore spots safe and clean, FWC recommends discarding scallop shells in deeper water or trash receptacles, rather than near boat ramps or swimming areas. All trash should be secured onboard to prevent littering.

For full rules, maps, and safety tips, visit MyFWC.com/Marine and select “Bay Scallops” under shellfish regulations.

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