Florida is a popular destination for scallop lovers. With its warm waters, abundance of natural resources and its picturesque coastline, Florida is an ideal place to go scalloping. The state also has a number of regulations and laws pertaining to the harvesting and sale of scallops. As such, it is important for visitors to know what the limits are when it comes to scalloping in Florida.
Harvesting Regulations
In Florida, the limit for the harvesting of scallops is two gallons of scallops in the shell or one pint of meat per individual per day. There is also a two-day possession limit. This means that a person can only possess two days of harvest at a time. Any individual caught exceeding the daily or possession limit is subject to a fine and/or jail time.
Size Restrictions
Scallops must also meet size restrictions to be legally harvested. The minimum size for scallops must be 2.5 inches in shell height. Any scallop that does not meet this size requirement must be returned to the water. It is illegal to possess any scallops that do not meet the size requirement, and violators are subject to fines and/or jail time.
Seasonal Restrictions
Scalloping is only allowed in Florida during certain times of the year. The scallop season generally runs from July 1st through September 24th. During this time, it is legal to harvest scallops in certain areas of Florida. Any scallop harvesting outside of this season is illegal, and violators are subject to a fine and/or jail time.
Harvesting Areas
It is important to note that not all parts of the Florida coast are open to scallop harvesting. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has designated certain areas as open to scallop harvesting. It is important to familiarize yourself with these areas before harvesting scallops. Any scallop harvesting outside of these designated areas is illegal, and violators are subject to a fine and/or jail time.
Licensing Requirements
It is important to note that all individuals harvesting scallops must be properly licensed. The FWC requires scallop harvesters to have a valid saltwater products license. This license is available for purchase at any FWC office, as well as many bait and tackle shops. Failure to possess a valid license could result in a fine and/or jail time.
Safe Practices
It is also important to keep safety in mind when harvesting scallops. All scallop harvesters should wear a life jacket while in the water. It is also important to check the weather forecast before heading out on the water, as storms can come up quickly and make conditions dangerous. Lastly, scallop harvesting should only be done in areas where it is legal and with proper licensing.
Conclusion
Scalloping can be a fun and rewarding activity, but it is important to be aware of the regulations and restrictions that are in place. In Florida, the limit for harvesting scallops is two gallons of scallops in the shell or one pint of meat per individual per day, and there are size, seasonal and harvesting area restrictions in place. It is also important for all scallop harvesters to possess a valid saltwater products license. By following these regulations and practicing safe habits, scallop harvesters can ensure that their activities are legal and safe.