Local fishermen in Hernando County can harvest recreational bay scallops July 1 through September 24.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission approved the months-long season for the Florida Gulf Coast.
Other fishing areas along the Gulf Coast include Carrabelle, Lanark, St. Marks, Cedar Key, Crystal River and Homosassa. According to wildlife officials, the shellfish can be collected by hand, or by using a landing or dip net. Florida prohibits any commercial harvesting for bay scallops.
Scalloping dates for the Florida Gulf Coast are as follows:
- Levy, Citrus, and Hernando counties: July 1 to Sept. 24
- Pasco County: July 19 through 28
- Franklin County east to Northwest Taylor County: July 1 to Sept. 24
- Taylor County south to Dixie County: June 15 through Sept. 10
More guidelines including bag limits and other scalloping information can be found at https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/bay-scallops/
