Hey guys,

I've always gone to Navarre Beach/Pensacola area. This year I'm coming to Port St. Joe. My wife and I enjoy some snorkeling but have never gone scalloping before and now we want to try.

Any pointers on getting started? Do we just pull up and find a nice shallow area on a calm day and go for it? I'm not asking for honey holes by any means, just help getting started.

It's pretty simple.  First, go to FWC and make sure the area you target is open and you have salt licenses.  http://m.myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/bay-scallops/

On your way to the boat ramp, hit up a local bait shop & buy ice/stuff.  Ask about scalloping.  They'll give you general local knowledge.  Follow the general directions until you see a floatilla of boats w/dive flags.  Pick a spot in 3-6 ft of water and start snorkeling.  See scallop, pickup scallop, place in bag, fill bag, take to boat and put on ice.  They lay in the grass beds.


At many boat ramps, there are people that will clean for you for a small fee.  Or search up YouTube for cleaning videos.

Pay someone to clean them for you. Much easier and costs almost nothing.

I'm a DIY guy, I'll give it a go!

Thanks for getting me started guys.

Port St Joe Bay area is closed for scalloping until later in August and even then the limit will be lower than normal.  The bay got hit with a pretty bad red tide event last year.

This.  I wouldn't waste my time this year.  Its unfortunate for PSJ and the surrounding areas but it happens.  

Then research the shopvac method.