Full Day Scalloping Homosassa Mason Creek

Full Day Scalloping Trip in Homosassa, Florida

Looking for the perfect way to spend a day on Florida's Nature Coast? This full-day scalloping adventure in Homosassa puts you right in the heart of some of the state's most productive scallop beds. You'll meet at MacRea's of Homosassa bright and early at 7:00 AM, ready to spend seven solid hours searching the crystal-clear waters for these tasty bivalves. Captain runs a spacious 24-foot Tremblay that handles up to six guests comfortably, though this particular trip is sized perfectly for groups of four. The boat's shallow draft design gets you into those prime scalloping spots where the big boats can't reach, and you'll have plenty of room to spread out your gear and move around while you're working the flats.

What to Expect on the Water

This isn't a rush job – seven hours gives you serious time to work the best scallop grounds around Homosassa without feeling hurried. The captain knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll position you over the grass beds where scallops love to hang out. You'll be working in water that's typically three to eight feet deep, crystal clear enough that you can spot scallops from the surface on calm days. The Tremblay's shallow draft means you can get into areas where other boats can't follow, giving you access to less pressured spots. Expect to move around throughout the day as conditions change and scallop activity shifts. The relaxed pace means there's time to teach beginners proper technique, help kids get their first scallops, and make sure everyone gets their fair share of the action.

Gear and Techniques

Scalloping is pretty straightforward, but there are definitely tricks that separate the pros from the weekend warriors. You'll be snorkeling in shallow water, using basic mask, snorkel, and fins to cruise over the grass beds. The captain provides mesh bags for collecting your scallops, and he'll show you how to properly clean them on the boat. Look for the distinctive fan-shaped shells nestled in the grass – they're masters of camouflage, so it takes a trained eye to spot them consistently. The key is moving slowly and methodically, checking every likely hiding spot. Scallops can actually swim by clapping their shells together, so don't be surprised if one rockets away from you when you reach for it. That's part of the fun. Water temperature stays comfortable through scalloping season, usually in the high 70s to low 80s, so you won't need a wetsuit.

Target Species

Bay scallops are what you're after on this trip, and Homosassa's grass flats produce some beauties. These aren't the massive sea scallops you see in fancy restaurants – bay scallops are smaller, about the size of a silver dollar, but they're incredibly sweet and tender. Peak season runs from July through September, with July and early August typically being the hottest action. Scallops are filter feeders that love seagrass beds, where they can attach themselves and feed on plankton and organic matter. What makes them exciting to hunt is their unpredictability – they can be thick as fleas in one area and completely absent just fifty yards away. Each scallop produces that perfect little round of white meat that's absolute gold in the kitchen. Florida allows recreational harvesters to keep ten gallons of whole scallops per person per day, which translates to plenty of sweet meat for the dinner table. The eyes around their shell edges can detect shadows and movement, which is why they'll often zip away when you approach. It's this game of cat and mouse that makes scalloping addictive for so many folks.

Time to Book Your Spot

Seven hours on the water with an experienced guide puts you in the best possible position to fill your bag with scallops. The Homosassa area consistently produces some of the best scalloping on Florida's west coast, and having a local captain who knows exactly where to find them makes all the difference. This trip works great for families, couples, or small groups of friends who want to experience one of Florida's most popular summer traditions. Remember that scallop season is short and demand for guide trips is high, so booking early is smart. You'll go home with fresh scallops, new skills, and stories about your day on some of the most beautiful water in the state. Mason Creek Outfitters has built their reputation on putting clients on scallops, and this full-day format gives you the best shot at limiting out while enjoying a relaxed day on the water.