July 2025 Fishing Report
Scalloping in Crystal River, FL, is a beloved summer tradition that mixes the excitement of an underwater “Easter egg” hunt with the calm, clear beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast waters. From July 1 through September 24, snorkelers glide over lush seagrass beds, sually in just 3 to 8 feet of water, on the lookout for bay scallops, which stand out thanks to their bright blue eyes and unique fan-shaped shells.
Hop on a guided charter and enjoy collecting up to 10 gallons of scallops per day at a relaxed pace. With so many scallops, crystal-clear water, and all kinds of colorful marine life, scalloping in Crystal River feels like a fun, eco-friendly treasure hunt. It’s the perfect way to soak up summer on the Gulf Coast.
This year’s scalloping season is shaping up to be the best in a long time. As soon as you dive in, scallops are everywhere, and we’ve been finding handfuls in the same spot!
December 2024 Fishing Report
Temperatures have dropped and the wind has kicked up out of the east bringing us to the time of year where regular tide swings are few and far between. Trout and Redfish have made there way back to the creeks and into the mud bays in order to find warmer water. Finding even the slightest water temperature increase can make your day. Focusing on the time of the day when the water is warmest with good hard structure near is key. The falling tide is typically best so getting out there at the crack of dawn will not make or break your day, you want to get as far back in the creeks as you can when looking for redfish, trout, black drum and sheepshead in the holes and on hard bottom shore lines near troughs. As the tides begin to fall you want to work your way out with the fish. Typically the redfish and black drum will be up on the shallower side while the trout and sheepshead will sit in the deeper holes and trenches. The go to baits have been live shrimp on a 1/8 oz jig head, nose hooked jerk baits and darker colored little Jons also with a 1/8 oz jig head. Our redfish slot is the same at one fish per person and must be 18-27 inches long, sheepshead has no over slot limit and must be 12 inches long and you are aloud 8 per person.
Tight Lines, Capt. Tanner
