SCALLOP SEASON:
Scallop season is open from July 1st  to September 10th.  Homosassa and Crystal River offer some of the best scalloping in Florida.

SCALLOP LIMITS:
Whole Scallops:  2 gallons per day per person,
                                 or 10 gallons per boat

Cleaned Scallops:  If you decide to clean your scallops while out on the water, the limit is 1 pint of scallop meat per person per day, or 1/2 gallon per boat

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
You must have a saltwater fishing license to catch scallops.   Just one license per boat won't do; everyone on board needs to have one.  That's one reason why it is a good idea to hire an experienced and knowledgeable guide to take you scalloping.  Not only can he take you to where the scallops can be found, all the necessary licenses are provided too !

FINDING SCALLOPS:
The only trick to catching scallops is finding them. They are usually found hiding in or around bladed sea grass. Because of the coloration of the shells, they blend in easy in the surrounding area. If you're in a boat, a pair of polarized sunglasses really helps to scan the water in search of the scallops.  When you get into an area of  bladed grass,  get into the water and take a closer look.   If you find a one, you'll usually find a lot more!
 
CATCHING SCALLOPS:
Scallops are fairly easy to catch! The only equipment you need is a mask, snorkel, fins, and a mesh bag to hold the scallops.   Scallops move by snapping their shells together and 'spitting' water out! They propel themselves rapidly in a zigzag direction.  Most kinds have a series of brightly colored eyes along the edge of the mantle. 
 
PREPARATION OF SCALLOPS:
-  Once removed from the shell, you can batter and deep fry
         them,  or-  you an also broil them in butter and garlic.  
         Either way they only take a couple of minutes at most.
-   Some people prefer to leave the muscle attached in the
           shell, put a drop of soy sauce on the meat,  surround it with
           crabmeat stuffing, and broil it for a minute or two, shell and
           all.  Then you just eat this tast  morsel right out of the shell.
-   And, you can drop them into your simmering spaghetti
           sauce a couple of minutes before serving.
-   Although it is not recommended, a few brave souls do eat
           them raw !   However, you can put them into  a lemon
           juice marinade for a few minutes, and eat them sushi style.