Florida's Best Scallop Hunting Trip | Capt. Duane

Scallop Hunting: Florida's Hidden Treasure

Ready for a splash of adventure in the Sunshine State? Capt. Duane Tibbetts has you covered with a scallop hunting trip that'll have you grinning from ear to ear. This isn't your average day on the water - it's a hands-on, in-the-water experience that's perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to add a dash of excitement to their Florida getaway.

Trip Overview

Picture this: you're gliding through crystal-clear shallows, the Florida sun warming your back as you scan the sea grass below. Suddenly, you spot it - the telltale blue eyes of a bay scallop peeking out from its shell. That's when the real fun begins! This 4-hour adventure kicks off at 8 AM, beating the heat and giving you prime scalloping conditions. With room for up to 4 people, it's the perfect size for a family outing or a small group of friends. And at $450 for the whole shebang, it's a steal for a private trip with a seasoned pro like Capt. Duane.

Scalloping 101

Now, let's talk scalloping. It's like an underwater Easter egg hunt, but instead of plastic eggs, you're after tasty sea treats. You'll be snorkeling in shallow waters, usually 3 to 6 feet deep. All you need is a mask, snorkel, and a mesh bag to collect your catch. Capt. Duane provides all the gear, so no worries if you've never done this before. The best part? If you can swim, you can scallop. It's that simple! Kids love it because it's like a real-life treasure hunt, and adults? Well, who doesn't love the idea of catching their own dinner?

Why Locals Love It

Scalloping isn't just a tourist thing - it's a beloved Florida tradition. From July 1 to September 24, locals and visitors alike flock to the coastal waters for this seasonal treat. It's a chance to cool off, have some laughs, and maybe even spot some other marine life while you're at it. Stingrays, hermit crabs, and all sorts of fish often make guest appearances during scallop hunts. Plus, there's something special about bringing home your own catch. Whether you're grilling them up on the BBQ or enjoying them in a citrusy ceviche, those scallops taste even better when you've caught them yourself.

The Scallop Lowdown

Let's chat about the star of the show - the bay scallop. These little guys are more than just tasty; they're fascinating creatures. Bay scallops have bright blue eyes - yep, you read that right, eyes! And not just two, but up to 100 of them lining their shell. They use these eyes to detect movement and light, helping them escape predators. When scalloping, you'll often see them clap their shells shut and scoot away as you approach. They're quick little buggers, which makes catching them all the more fun. In terms of size, you're looking at about 2 inches across - small but mighty in flavor. The best time to find them? Low tide on a calm, clear day when the water's like glass. That's when you can spot their shells glinting in the sunlight.

What You'll Bring Home

One of the coolest parts of this trip? You get to keep what you catch (within legal limits, of course). Florida allows recreational scallopers to collect up to 2 gallons of whole bay scallops in the shell per person, or up to 1 pint of scallop meat per person. That's plenty for a mouthwatering scallop dinner or two. Don't know how to clean them? No sweat. Capt. Duane can give you some pointers, or you can find plenty of local spots that'll do it for you. And if cooking isn't your thing, many local restaurants will be happy to prepare your catch. Trust me, there's nothing quite like enjoying a meal you harvested yourself earlier that day.

Book Your Scallop Safari

Alright, let's wrap this up. If you're looking for a uniquely Florida experience that's fun for all ages, gets you in the water, and ends with a tasty treat, this scallop hunting trip is your ticket. It's a chance to make memories, learn something new, and maybe even discover your new favorite seafood. Remember, the scalloping season is short - just a few months in the summer - so don't wait to book your spot. Whether you're a local looking for a new adventure or a visitor wanting to experience the real Florida, Capt. Duane's got you covered. So grab your swimsuit, slather on that sunscreen, and get ready for a day of laughs, splashes, and scallops. Trust me, your taste buds (and your Instagram feed) will thank you.