Experience the Best Scalloping in Florida at Presnell’s Bayside Marina & RV Resort!
St. Joseph Bay is widely regarded as Florida’s premier scalloping destination, offering clear waters, abundant seagrass beds, and an unforgettable underwater adventure. Nestled along the pristine Forgotten Coast, Presnell’s Bayside Marina & RV Resort is the perfect base camp for scallopers looking to explore this world-class fishery.
Scalloping Season in St. Joseph Bay:
- Official Season: August 16 – September 24 (dates subject to change at any time by FWC)
- Location: St. Joseph Bay, just steps from Presnell’s Bayside Marina & RV Resort
- License Requirement: A Florida saltwater fishing license is required (unless exempt)
What Makes St. Joseph Bay the Best Place to Scallop? Unlike other locations in Florida, St. Joseph Bay features calm, shallow waters that make it ideal for scallopers of all ages and skill levels. The bay’s thriving seagrass meadows provide the perfect habitat for bay scallops, making it easy to spot and collect them while snorkeling.
How to Scallop in St. Joseph Bay:
- Gear Up: You’ll need a mask, snorkel, fins, and a mesh bag to collect your scallops – and Presnell’s Bayside Marina & RV Resort has you covered! Visit our store to purchase all the gear you need before heading out on the water.
- Rent a Boat: To reach the best scalloping spots, rent a pontoon boat, skiff, kayak, or paddleboard from Presnell’s Bayside Marina & RV Resort. Our marina makes it easy to get on the water quickly and comfortably.
- Hire a Guide: New to scalloping or just want a local’s help? Presnell’s Bayside Marina & RV Resort also offers expert fishing and scalloping guides who can show you the ropes and lead you to the most productive areas in the bay.
- Snorkel the Seagrass Beds: Once you’re out there, dive in and scan the seagrass for the telltale blue eyes of bay scallops. Gently scoop them up and drop them in your mesh bag.
- Know the Rules: Remember, the daily bag limit is 2 gallons of whole scallops per person, with a maximum of 10 gallons per vessel.
- Clean & Cook Your Catch: After a fun-filled day on the water, take advantage of our scallop cleaning stations. Whether you sauté, bake, or fry them, St. Joseph Bay scallops are a true Gulf Coast delicacy.
Cleaning & Cooking Your Catch:
After a successful day on the water, use our scallop cleaning stations at Presnell’s Bayside Marina & RV Resort to prepare your fresh catch. Whether you prefer them sautéed in butter, baked, or fried, St. Joseph Bay scallops are a local delicacy you won’t want to miss!
Scalloping season is one of the most popular times of the year on Florida’s Forgotten Coast, so plan your trip early! Reserve your RV site or boat rental at Presnell’s Bayside Marina & RV Resort today and experience the best scalloping Florida has to offer.
For more information on scalloping regulations, licenses, and best practices, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website.
Note: Scallop season dates, rules and regulations subject to change at any time by FWC.
