Ready for a Florida adventure that'll have you splashing in crystal-clear shallows and bagging your own seafood dinner? Captain Jacob Watts is your go-to guy for scalloping in Steinhatchee, where the summer waters teem with these tasty bivalves. This 6-hour trip is perfect for families, friend groups, or anyone looking to try their hand at harvesting nature's underwater treasures. No need to be a pro – Captain Jacob's got all the gear and know-how to get you scalloping like a local in no time.
Picture this: you're gliding over gin-clear water, the Florida sun warming your back as you peer into the sea grass below. Suddenly, you spot it – the electric blue eyes of a bay scallop peeking out from the sandy bottom. That's when the fun begins! This trip isn't just about filling your bag (though you'll definitely do that). It's about experiencing the thrill of the hunt, soaking up the coastal vibes, and making memories that'll last way longer than your suntan. With a full 6 hours on the water, you've got plenty of time to perfect your scalloping technique, explore different spots, and maybe even squeeze in a quick snorkel break to cool off.
Don't sweat it if you've never been scalloping before – it's as easy as pie (or should we say, scallop ceviche?). Captain Jacob will hook you up with all the gear you need: mask, snorkel, fins, and a mesh bag to stash your catch. The water's usually only 3-8 feet deep, so it's perfect for swimmers of all levels. You'll be bobbing along the surface, keeping an eye out for those telltale blue eyes. When you spot one, take a deep breath, dive down, and scoop it up! It's like an underwater Easter egg hunt, only tastier. And the best part? Captain Jacob knows all the secret spots where scallops love to hang out, so you're pretty much guaranteed a good haul.
Let me tell you, once you've been scalloping in Steinhatchee, you'll be itching to come back every season. It's not just about the scallops (though they're pretty darn delicious). It's the whole package – the warm Gulf waters, the laid-back vibe of the boat, and the satisfaction of catching your own dinner. Families love it because it's an activity everyone can enjoy together, from kids to grandparents. And for the foodies out there? There's nothing quite like the taste of scallops you've harvested yourself, seared to perfection with a little butter and lemon. Mmm-mmm!
Alright, let's talk about the real MVPs of this trip – the bay scallops themselves. These little guys are the reason Steinhatchee turns into scallop central every summer. Bay scallops are smaller than their sea scallop cousins, usually about 2 inches across, but what they lack in size they make up for in flavor. They've got a sweet, delicate taste that even seafood skeptics tend to love. And those bright blue eyes I mentioned? They're not just for show – scallops have up to 200 eyes along the edge of their shell, which they use to detect movement and light. Pretty cool, huh?
The best time to go scalloping is during the season, which runs from June 15 to September 1. This is when the scallops are at their peak, having grown fat and happy in the warm summer waters. Early in the season, you might find them in slightly deeper waters, but as the season progresses, they tend to move into shallower areas. Captain Jacob knows all these patterns like the back of his hand, so you're always in good hands when it comes to finding the motherlode.
One of the coolest things about bay scallops is how they swim. Unlike other bivalves that just kind of sit there, scallops can jet through the water by clapping their shells together. It's not exactly NASCAR speeds, but it's pretty impressive for a shellfish. Don't worry though – they're still easy enough to catch, especially with Captain Jacob's expert guidance.
So, are you ready to dive into one of Florida's most unique summer traditions? This 6-hour scalloping charter with Captain Jacob Watts is your ticket to a day of sun, fun, and some of the freshest seafood you'll ever taste. Whether you're a seasoned scalloper or a first-timer, there's nothing quite like the thrill of finding your own dinner in the pristine waters of Steinhatchee. And with the trip running from June 15 to September 1, you've got plenty of time to get in on the action.
Remember, spots fill up fast – especially on weekends and holidays. So if you're itching to get out on the water and try your hand at bagging some bay scallops, don't wait to book. Give Captain Jacob a call and reserve your spot on this top-rated Steinhatchee scalloping adventure. Trust me, your taste buds (and your Instagram feed) will thank you. See you on the water!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 55
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 200