The Essential Tool for Scallop Season: Florida Sea Grant's Scallop Sorter

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Introduction

As scallop season kicks off in Florida’s coastal communities, a new tool is revolutionizing sustainable harvesting practices: the scallop sorter. Developed by Florida Sea Grant in collaboration with the University of Florida’s IFAS and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, this pocket-sized device ensures only mature scallops are harvested, promoting ecosystem health and boosting local economies.

Unfortunately I don’t have a picture of the Sea Grant Sorter. It look similar to this.

Innovation and Collaboration

The scallop sorter originated from stakeholder feedback, evolving from a simple idea of using milk jugs to its current form—a smooth, circular tool with a handle. It’s designed to be user-friendly and effective, helping scallopers distinguish between small and mature scallops easily.

Impact and Distribution

Since its introduction, the scallop sorter has gained widespread popularity. In 2023, over 1,500 sorters were distributed across 13 counties. This year, thanks to support from the Coastal Conservation Association, over 10,000 sorters will be available, helping to protect scallop populations and ensure a sustainable future for this beloved activity.

Conclusion

For scallopers along Florida’s Nature Coast, the scallop sorter is a must-have tool. It not only supports sustainable practices but also enhances the enjoyment of scalloping by ensuring better catches and healthier marine ecosystems. For more information and to find out how to get a scallop sorter, visit Florida Sea Grant’s website.

PSA: Scallop Sorters – What They Are, Why They’re Important, and Where to Get Them

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As scallop season kicks off in Steinhatchee, it’s essential to ensure we are practicing sustainable scalloping. One crucial tool in this effort is the scallop sorter.

What is a Scallop Sorter?

A scallop sorter is a simple but effective tool used to measure scallops. If a scallop fits through the hole in the sorter, it is too small to harvest and should be returned to the water. This helps ensure that we are only collecting mature scallops, allowing the smaller ones to grow and reproduce, contributing to future populations.

Why Are They Important?

In Florida, the limit for scallops is based on volume, not count. Early in the season, scallops tend to be smaller, meaning you can legally harvest a larger number of individual scallops within the volume limit. Using a scallop sorter helps prevent over-harvesting of immature scallops, promoting a healthier scallop population for years to come. Although not required by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), using a scallop sorter is highly recommended.

Where to Get Them

Scallop sorters are available for free at many businesses throughout Steinhatchee. Be sure to pick one up before heading out on the water to ensure you’re scalloping responsibly. For more information, you can visit the CCA Florida website or contact Danielle Norwood at Sea Hag Marina at thehag@seahag.com or by calling 352-498-3008.

If you own a business in Steinhatchee and are handing out scallop sorters, please share this post! Let’s work together to promote sustainable scalloping practices in our community.

Thank You, CCA Florida

A big thank you to CCA Florida for providing these essential scallop sorters and supporting sustainable scalloping practices in our community,

Ultimate Guide to Scalloping in Steinhatchee: Best Gear, Tips, Spots & Recipes

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Young scalloper in Steinhatchee

Steinhatchee, Florida, is a hidden gem for scalloping enthusiasts. Nestled along Florida's Gulf Coast, this quaint fishing village offers some of the best scalloping opportunities in the state. Whether you're a seasoned scalloper or a first-timer, this ultimate guide will provide you with everything you need to know about scalloping in Steinhatchee—from gear and regulations to tips for beginners, the best spots, and delicious ways to cook your catch.

Gear You'll Need

Before heading out, ensure you have the right gear. Here's a list of essentials:

  1. Mask, Snorkel, and Fins: These are crucial for spotting and reaching the scallops on the ocean floor. We recommend the Seaview 180 V3 Full Face Snorkel Mask.

  2. Mesh Bag: To collect and carry your scallops. Check out the Large Mesh Bag.

  3. Dive Flag: Required by law to signal to boaters that there are divers in the water. Consider the Scuba Diver Down Flag.

  4. Sunscreen and Protective Clothing: The Florida sun can be intense, so protect yourself from sunburn. We recommend Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen and Columbia PFG Tamiami II Long Sleeve Shirt.

  5. Boat or Kayak: While you can swim to scalloping areas, having a boat or kayak makes it easier to reach the best spots. The Intex Explorer K2 Kayak is a great option.

  6. Scallop Sorter: A device to help you sort and measure scallops quickly, ensuring you comply with size regulations. The Scallop Sorters will be available at businesses around Steinhatchee for free. This may be the most important item you can have early in the season to help sustain our scallop population for the future.

Photo: Sea Hag Marina

Regulations to Keep in Mind

Scalloping is a regulated activity to ensure the sustainability of the scallop population. Here are the key regulations:

  1. Season: The scalloping season in Steinhatchee runs from June 15 through Labor Day. However, there are different bag limits depending on the dates:

    • June 15 to June 30: The daily limit is 1 gallon of whole scallops in the shell or 1 cup of scallop meat per person, with a vessel limit of 5 gallons of whole scallops or 2 pints of scallop meat.

    • July 1 to Labor Day: The daily limit increases to 2 gallons of whole scallops in the shell or 1 pint of scallop meat per person, with a vessel limit of 10 gallons of whole scallops or ½ gallon of scallop meat​ (Florida Wildlife Commission)​​ (Florida Wildlife Commission)​​ (Florida Wildlife Commission)​.

  2. Licensing: A Florida recreational saltwater fishing license is required for scalloping.

  3. Bag Limits: Ensure you adhere to the daily and vessel limits as specified.

Good catch of scallops

Tips for Beginners

  1. Stay Safe: Always use a dive flag, and keep an eye on the weather.

  2. Look for Seagrass Beds: Scallops are typically found in shallow seagrass beds in water 4-8 feet deep.

  3. Move Slowly: Scallops are excellent at camouflaging themselves. Move slowly and look for the blue "eyes" around the edge of their shells.

  4. Practice Catch and Release: Only take what you need and follow the bag limits to ensure the scallop population remains healthy.




Best Spots for Scalloping

Steinhatchee offers several prime scalloping locations. Some of the best spots include:

  1. Rock Point: Known for its abundant scallop population and clear waters.

  2. Pepperfish Keys: Offers a mix of seagrass beds and sandy patches where scallops love to hide.

  3. Hagens Cove: A family-friendly spot with shallow waters, perfect for beginners.

How to Cook Your Catch

Once you've had a successful day on the water, it's time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Here are a few delicious ways to cook your scallops:

Scallop Ceviche

Ingredients:

  • Fresh scallops

  • Lime juice

  • Red onion

  • Jalapeño

  • Cilantro

  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. Clean and dice the scallops.

  2. Mix with lime juice and let marinate for 30 minutes.

  3. Add diced red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, salt, and pepper.

  4. Serve chilled with tortilla chips.

For more details on making scallop ceviche, check out this recipe from Food Network.

Pan-Seared Scallops

Ingredients:

  • Fresh scallops

  • Olive oil

  • Butter

  • Garlic

  • Lemon juice

  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. Pat scallops dry and season with salt and pepper.

  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a pan over medium-high heat.

  3. Add scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.

  4. Add minced garlic and lemon juice, and cook for an additional minute.

  5. Serve hot with your favorite side dish.

For a detailed guide on pan-searing scallops, refer to this recipe from Bon Appétit.

Scallop Pasta

Ingredients:

  • Fresh scallops

  • Olive oil

  • Garlic

  • Cherry tomatoes

  • Fresh basil

  • Cooked pasta

  • Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.

  2. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.

  3. Add scallops and cook until opaque.

  4. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to burst.

  5. Toss in cooked pasta and fresh basil, and top with Parmesan cheese.

For a scrumptious scallop pasta recipe, visit this link from Delish.

And if you don’t fell like cooking most of the Restaurants in town will cook your catch for you.

Conclusion

Scalloping in Steinhatchee is a delightful adventure for families, friends, and solo explorers alike. With the right gear, knowledge of regulations, and a few helpful tips, you'll be well on your way to a successful and enjoyable scalloping experience. Plus, with these tasty recipes, you'll savor the rewards of your hard work. Happy scalloping!

Discover DTRAC Park: A Drone Tour of Jena Florida's Family Park

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Embark on a drone tour of DTRAC Park in Jena Florida, where nature and recreation unite in perfect harmony. This video showcases the park's amenities, including a spacious pavilion, inviting charcoal grills perfect for barbecues, competitive pickleball courts, a vibrant playground for children, and well-maintained basketball courts.

Join us on this virtual journey as we explore the heart of Jena, Florida, and discover why DTRAC Park is a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.

#pickleballislife #jenaflorida #park #steinhatchee #pickleball

The contrast of calm and destruction

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The beauty of nature always finds a way to shine through, even in the darkest of times. This photo of the reflection of the sky in the Steinhatchee River is a testament to that. The contrast between the calm and peaceful water and the destruction left behind by Hurricane Idalia is striking. It is a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of resilience.

This photo was taken at Roy's Restaurant, which was severely damaged by the hurricane. The restaurant is closed, but repairs have already begun and will reopen as soon as possible. In the meantime, this photo is a reminder of the beauty that can still be found, even in the midst of destruction.