PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — Scalloping season is back on Florida’s Sports Coast.

The 10-day season started on Friday. Many boaters took to the coast of Pasco County this weekend to see what they could find.

What You Need To Know

  • Scalloping is back for a 10-day season in Pasco County, until July 24

  • The scalloping season provides a boost to Pasco’s economy

  • Scalloping returned to Pasco in 2018 after being banned in 1994 to protect scallops from overharvesting

Wendy Longman, owner of Windsong Boat Rentals, says it’s one of the best tourist attractions of the year for Pasco County.  

“You find that one scallop. And then you’re hooked,” Longman said. “It is complete hook, line and sinker. It’s like, if I’ve found one, there’s more! I know there’s more!”

Longman took Spectrum Bay News 9 along for a scalloping trip on the coast of New Port Richey on Saturday. Within minutes, scallops were found.

Her pontoons were booked solid this weekend for the return of scalloping, with many renters happy with what they found.

Scalloping provides a big boost for the Pasco economy, something Longman sees firsthand.

“Not just boats. It’s people staying in hotels, renting cars, visiting family, going out to dinner, restaurants. It’s kind of like Christmas in July,” Longman said.

Scalloping returned to Pasco in 2018 after being banned in 1994 to protect scallops from overharvesting.

The state is just allowing limited seasons for now.

But it’s a chance for Pasco County, which markets itself as Florida’s Sports Coast, to show off its outdoor tourism.

“I honestly think this is one of the best seasons we’ve had back,” Longman said.

People can search for scallops in all Pasco and Pinellas County waters north of the Anclote Key lighthouse, including all waters of the Anclote River.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) says scallopers are limited to 2 gallons a day.

The season ends on July 24.