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Spend five hours hunting bay scallops across the shallow seagrass flats off Homosassa. Expect wildlife encounters, simple snorkeling, and all basic gear provided—book early for summer departures.
Spend five hours hunting bay scallops across the shallow seagrass flats off Homosassa. Expect wildlife encounters, simple snorkeling, and all basic gear provided—book early for summer departures.
Book with River Safaris
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by River Safaris · Homosassa, Florida
Scallop Hunt WITHOUT In-water Guide takes you out from Homosassa, Florida, onto the shallow seagrass flats of the Gulf of Mexico for a five-hour hunt that feels like an underwater Easter egg search. Meeting point: 10823 W. Yulee Drive, Homosassa, Florida 34448, the operation runs semi-private or private trips aboard 6-passenger vessels. Onboard, experienced Master Captains pilot you to the grassy scallop beds off the Homosassa River where bay scallops gather each summer. The key features of the scene are expansive seagrass beds, clear shallow waters, and scattered oyster bars; the area supports coastal seagrass habitat vital for scallops, juvenile fish, and sea turtles.
This trip is as much about wildlife as harvest. Look for bottlenose dolphins arcing near the bow, Florida green sea turtles grazing on seagrass, and starfish clinging to sandy patches. The local marine life list also includes seahorses, remora, pufferfish, conch, and various gamefish that patrol the edges of the flats. Captains provide masks, snorkels, fins, scallop bags, and the required license; note the tour price does not include an in-water guide - the captain must remain aboard per regulations, though an in-water guide can be added for instruction and cleaning at extra cost.
Why book this trip? Citrus County is famous for bay scalloping; the cooperative rhythm of boat, skiff, and shallow water creates an accessible saltwater experience for families and small groups. The operation’s small vessels mean more time over prime habitat and personalized attention from the captain. Harvest rules are conservative - maximum harvest of 10 gallons per vessel or 2 gallons per person - so the day balances fun with stewardship.
Practical notes: trips run seasonally when scallops spawn and aggregate in summer months; the company supplies bottled water and all basic gear but recommends sunscreen, a hat, and reef-safe sunscreen. Minimum group size applies; check availability through the provided referral link.
Expect an approximately five-hour outing; vessels take up to six passengers with a minimum three-person departure requirement. New snorkelers may want the optional in-water guide - guides enter the water to teach scallop ID, safe handling, and simple cleaning so your catch travels home ready to cook. Pack a small cooler with ice if you intend to keep scallops, and keep a dry bag for keys and electronics. Summer weekends fill quickly; reserve early through the referral link to secure your preferred date, and plan accordingly.
moderate.
5 hours.
Comfortable swimmer and able to snorkel in shallow, choppy Gulf conditions; some bending and holding position in water required.
No. Captains must remain on the vessel by law; an in-water scallop guide can be booked for an additional fee to assist in the water and with cleaning.
Masks, snorkels, fins, scallop bags, and the required license are included; bottled water is provided.
Trips run approximately five hours from departure to return.
Maximum harvest is 10 gallons per vessel or 2 gallons per person—local regulations are enforced to protect the resource.
Meet at 10823 W. Yulee Drive, Homosassa, Florida 34448 for check-in and boarding.
Yes. Tours require a minimum of three people to run; private or semi-private charters accommodate up to six passengers.
Citrus County earned a reputation for bay scalloping decades ago; summer scallop runs drew recreational harvesters and helped define local coastal culture.
Strict harvest limits and gear rules help protect bay scallop beds; use reef-safe sunscreen and follow captain directions to minimize seagrass disturbance.
River Safaris is a tour operator in Homosassa, Florida, offering airboat rides, manatee swim tours, boat rentals, scallop hunts, and wildlife cruises. The fleet includes 20‑, 22‑, and 24‑foot pontoons and boats equipped with reliable engines, new seating, and optional Bluetooth speakers for on-water comfort and convenience. Airboat options include a 90 Minute Airboat Tour and a 60 Minute Airboat Tour that run through backwaters, estuaries, palm-lined canals, and mangrove islands where passengers can spot dolphins and historic shell mounds. From November through March, River Safaris operates semi-private and private manatee swim tours aboard heated or unheated boats. Those 4-hour manatee adventures feature small-group formats, snacks, and drinks, providing personalized wildlife viewing and close-up encounters with gentle manatees in warm coastal waters. Scallop hunters can choose a 5-hour Gulf of Mexico trip with or without an in-water guide to search for bay scallops while watching for dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life. The Manatee Magic and Wildlife Safari in Old Homosassa cruises through local waterways, passes Monkey Island, and focuses on spot-and-see wildlife experiences. Boat rental guests can use boats for scalloping, swimming, fishing, or general exploration of Citrus County waterways. River Safaris employs experienced captains familiar with local waters and wildlife viewing etiquette. Reservations, detailed safety briefings, and clear seasonal schedules help guests plan trips. The company's offerings emphasize safe, guided access to Homosassa waterways and wildlife experiences for families and small groups. Online reservations and walk-up availability vary by season; advanced booking is recommended for popular dates.
Book with River Safaris