Cooler full of Pasco County Scallops in New Port Richey Fishing Scalloping snorkeling charter!

PASCO COUNTY

SCALLOP SEASON 2026

JC FISHIN CHARTERS - NEW PORT RICHEY

SCALLOPING

IN PASCO COUNTY 2026

Scalloping in Pasco County, Florida, is a fun, family-friendly adventure where visitors can snorkel in clear Gulf waters to collect bay scallops in lush seagrass beds. Scalloping season 2026 runs from mid-July to mid-August, offering a sustainable way to enjoy the outdoors. With a daily limit of 2 gallons per person or 10 gallons per vessel, it’s a great activity for all skill levels. Pasco County is known for its pristine waters, fewer crowds, and fresh, delicious scallops that can be enjoyed at local restaurants. It’s the perfect spot for a memorable scalloping charter experience.

How do you scallop?

Scalloping in Pasco County 2026 is a fun and simple activity for all ages. Using a mask, snorkel, and fins, you'll cruise in shallow Gulf waters, searching for scallops in the seagrass beds. When you spot one, dive down to grab it and place it in your collection bag. The waters are typically 3-6 feet deep, making it accessible for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

Scalloping Gear

  • Mask, Snorkel, and fins for each guest.

  • Mesh collection bags for storing scallops.

  • Dive flag for safety.

Boat and Equipment

  • Cooler with ice for storing scallops.

Fishing License

  • State-required license provided for all participants.

Local Expertise

  • Tips on scalloping techniques.

  • Insight into local marine life and ecosystems.

What’s included?

Putting Scallops in the cooler on a scalloping charter in New Port Richey, Pasco County with JC Fishin Charters
Cleaning Scallops in the cooler on a scalloping charter in New Port Richey, Pasco County with JC Fishin Charters
Putting Scallops in the cooler on a scalloping charter in New Port Richey, Pasco County with JC Fishin Charters
Fishing charter New Port Richey, inshore trips, family-friendly, guided tours pasco county fishing scallop tour

SCALLOPING TRIPS

IN PASCO COUNTY 2026

4 Hour Scalloping Adventure-$450

Up to 6 Guests, $450 for 4 guests, with additional guests being $50 per person

The lucky orange scallop found on New Port Richey fishing charter scalloping pasco county tarpon springs
A person's hand holding a green sea turtle in the water.

2 Hour Beginner Scalloping Trip - $250

Up to 6 Guests, $250 for 4 guests, with additional guests being $50 per person

Cleaning Scallops


Cleaning scallops is a rewarding part of the scalloping experience, and using the right tools makes the job easier and more efficient. The Toadfish Clam Knife is the perfect tool for cleaning bay scallops, thanks to its sharp, durable blade and ergonomic design. This high-quality knife allows you to easily open the scallop shell and remove the tender meat with precision, ensuring minimal waste and maximum flavor. Whether you're preparing scallops for a delicious dinner or storing them for later, the Toadfish Clam Knife is the ideal tool for a smooth, hassle-free cleaning process, all while helping to protect the delicate ecosystem.

Scalloping New Port richey Pasco County with JC Fishin Charters

CAPTAIN’S CHOICE RECIPES

Over the years, Capt. JC has narrowed down recipes into specific ones that are easy, delicious, and quick to make.

Fresh scallops on ice in a white container, with two blue-handled shucking knives.
Fishing charter New Port Richey, inshore trips, family-friendly, guided tours.

“THE LUCKY ORANGE”

On our scalloping charters in New Port Richey, you may come across the rare orange bay scallop—a unique find that adds excitement to any trip. While most bay scallops have a beige or brownish shell, the vibrant orange hue is caused by genetic variations, similar to how certain traits appear in other species. These orange scallops are a rare discovery, with estimates suggesting they make up only a small percentage of the population. Spotting one is considered a lucky event, making your scalloping adventure even more memorable!

Scalloping charter new port richey pasco county fishing
new port richey fishing scalloping charter pasco county inshore guided fishing trip

What is a scallop?

A bay scallop (Argopecten irradians) is a small bivalve mollusk found in the shallow, seagrass-dominated waters of Florida’s Gulf Coast, including around New Port Richey in Pasco County. These scallops are filter feeders, using their gills to filter plankton and organic matter from the water. Bay scallops are characterized by their delicate, fan-shaped shells, which range in color from white to brown, with blue markings around the edge of the shell. They play a vital ecological role by contributing to water quality through filtration, making them an important species for maintaining healthy marine ecosystems.

Click https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/bay-scallops/ for more information on scalloping and how you can experience this exciting adventure with JC Fishin Charters in New Port Richey!

FAQs

DIRECTIONS

 

New Port Richey lies south of Hudson and north of Tarpon Springs, Florida.

Make a turn into the parking lot of Seafire Grill (big blue restaurant).

Parking is free and available anywhere the curb stops are yellow. JC Fishin Charters is located at dock slip #1 which is located on the right side of Seafire Grill.

Walk down the floating dock ramp and slip #1 will be the first one on the right.

Bathrooms are available for use on the property.

CONTACT CAPT. JC

Two men on a boat holding a large fish over a calm body of water, with the man on the left wearing a baseball cap, sunglasses, and a teal shirt, and the man on the right wearing a baseball cap, sunglasses, and a white long-sleeve shirt.