Crystal River Scalloping Charter
Welcome aboard Inshore Pursuit Charters, your gateway to an unforgettable Crystal River Scalloping Charter in the heart of Crystal River, Florida. With a wide array of transition words, you’ll seamlessly transition into a thrilling journey into the sparkling waters of Crystal River, known as one of the world’s top scalloping destinations.
Under the expert guidance of Captain Vincent, you’ll embark on a truly exhilarating adventure. From the moment you step on board, you’ll be immersed in Captain Vincent’s deep knowledge of these waters, honed over years of experience. This ensures that you’ll be taken to the best spots for scalloping, where excitement and discovery await. Whether you’re an experienced diver or trying this for the first time, our charter caters to everyone, providing a safe and inclusive experience. Vincent will skillfully guide you on how to safely spot, collect, and even clean these hidden sea treasures, transforming your trip into a hands-on, educational adventure.
However, the Inshore Pursuit experience is about more than just the catch. It’s about immersing yourself in the unparalleled beauty of Crystal River, snorkeling in the clear, shallow waters, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. So, as you prepare to embark on this extraordinary journey, get ready to dive into the thrill of scalloping. Join Captain Vincent and let the adventure begin with Inshore Pursuit Charters!
What to Expect?
Your unforgettable scalloping adventure begins at our meeting point, the Plantation on Crystal River, located at 9301 West Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429. Here, amidst the camaraderie of Captain Vincent and fellow scallopers, you’ll embark on an extraordinary journey. Following an orientation and safety briefing, we’ll set sail, steering towards the prime scalloping grounds that await us in Crystal River.
As we arrive at our destination, the time has come to plunge into the crystal-clear waters! Amidst the vibrant seagrass beds, you’ll snorkel in search of the prized scallops that inhabit these waters. Fear not, for Captain Vincent will be your guiding light throughout the adventure, sharing his wealth of expertise and providing valuable tips for spotting and collecting these delectable treasures.
When the exhilarating scalloping experience draws to a close, we’ll return to shore, where Captain Vincent will impart his knowledge on cleaning your abundant catch. Witness the transformation of your bag of fresh scallops into delectable morsels, ready to be prepared and savored. Remember, our charter is more than just a boat trip; it’s a remarkable, hands-on encounter that promises to enrich your knowledge and leave you with cherished memories.
Crystal River Scalloping Season 2023: July to September
Every year, from the beginning of July until early September, the pristine waters of Crystal River transform into a bustling haven for scalloping enthusiasts. It’s during this vibrant season that the scallops reach their prime, beckoning snorkelers and divers of all levels to partake in this extraordinary endeavor.
Our scalloping charters will transport you approximately 2-3 miles from the shore, immersing you in the heart of the Gulf of Mexico. It is within this expansive realm, amidst the sprawling eelgrass beds, that the scallops thrive abundantly. The eelgrass habitat serves as an idyllic sanctuary for these bivalve mollusks, ensuring a fruitful scalloping experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned scalloper or embarking on this adventure for the first time, Inshore Pursuit Charters invites you to join us during the summer months for an unforgettable scalloping expedition. Keep in mind that the scalloping season is relatively short, so it’s wise to book your charter well in advance to secure your place in this captivating endeavor.
Scallop Trips:
Starting at $400.00
Prices starts at $400.00 and go up as the passenger number increases. With a max capacity of six passengers per trip.
1-2 people $400
3-4 people $450
5-6 people $500
Fishing licenses are covered for all passengers as well as snorkel gear but you are welcome to bring your own!
Coolers will be provided on the boat.
What To Bring:
Food & Drinks
Towels
Sunscreen
Polarized Sunglasses
Small Cooler (to take scallops home to eat)
Rain Gear
Why Choose Vincent for Your Memorable Scalloping Adventure
- Expert Guidance: Captain Vincent’s years of experience and local knowledge ensure you’re in safe and capable hands. He knows the best scalloping spots and shares invaluable tips for a successful hunt.
- Educational Experience: Learn about scallops, their habitats, and the best techniques for collecting them. You’ll leave not only with a bag of fresh scallops but also with new knowledge.
- Complete Package: We provide all necessary equipment, including snorkeling gear and scallop collection bags, ensuring you have everything you need for a fun, hassle-free experience.
- Safety Prioritized: Your safety is our top priority. We adhere to all safety regulations and make sure everyone is comfortable and confident before entering the water.
- Family Friendly: Our charters are suitable for all ages and skill levels, making for a perfect family outing. LEARN MORE
Frequently Asked Questions about Crystal River Scalloping
Scalloping is a delightful and inclusive activity that caters to individuals of all ages and skill levels. While it involves snorkeling and swimming, rest assured that Vincent will be by your side, providing expert guidance and support throughout the entire experience.
No need to worry! At Inshore Pursuit Charters, we’ve got you covered with all the essential equipment for your scalloping adventure. From snorkeling gear to scallop collection bags, we provide everything you need to make the most of your experience. So, leave your concerns behind and come prepared with nothing but your sense of adventure!
Scallop limits are carefully regulated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. As per the current regulations, each person is allowed to harvest up to 2 gallons of whole bay scallops in the shell or 1 pint of scallop meat per day. However, it’s important to note that regulations may have changed since the time of this writing. Therefore, we highly recommend checking the current rules or consulting Captain Vincent for the most up-to-date information.
Certainly! Scalloping, without a doubt, is a fantastic activity that can be enjoyed by the whole family. LEARN MORE
Scalloping entails engaging in snorkeling in the shallows and visually scanning seagrass beds for scallops. When you spot one, all you need to do is dive down and gather it in your mesh bag.
Cleaning bay scallops involves the essential step of removing the muscle from the shell. To achieve this, the shell is opened, the muscle is cut free, and the dark viscera is removed. Rest assured, Captain Vincent will expertly demonstrate this process for you after your charter.
You have a range of options when it comes to cooking bay scallops. You can pan-sear them, grill them, bake them, or incorporate them into delicious dishes like seafood pasta or risotto. The crucial aspect is to cook them swiftly to ensure they remain tender and succulent.
Absolutely! Boiling scallops is an option, but it’s crucial to avoid overcooking them, as that can result in toughness. Many individuals opt to sear, grill, or bake scallops instead, as these cooking methods help retain their delicate flavor.