Get ready for a full day of non-stop action on the water with our scallop and fishing double-header in Crystal River. This trip's got it all - from scooping up tasty scallops to reeling in some of Florida's most sought-after inshore species. Capt. Dave knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll put you right where you need to be for the best shot at filling your cooler. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, this trip's designed to give you a taste of the best Crystal River has to offer.
Kick off your day bright and early as we head out to the scalloping grounds. You'll gear up with masks and snorkels (all provided) and hop into the crystal-clear shallows to hand-pick these little ocean jewels. It's like an underwater Easter egg hunt, and trust me, it's addictive! Once we've bagged our limit of scallops, we'll switch gears and break out the fishing rods. Capt. Dave will get you set up with everything you need - rods, reels, bait, and all the local know-how to put you on the fish. We're talking about some serious inshore action, targeting snook, sea trout, and redfish. The best part? No need to stress about licenses - we've got you covered there too.
For the scalloping part of our day, we'll be using mesh bags and dive flags to stay safe and legal. When it comes to fishing, we'll be using a mix of live bait and artificial lures, depending on what's biting. Expect to do some light tackle casting, maybe even some sight fishing if conditions are right. Don't worry if you're new to this - Capt. Dave's a pro at getting folks dialed in, whether you're tossing a net for bait or working a topwater lure. Just remember to bring some comfy clothes you don't mind getting wet, and don't forget the sunscreen!
Snook are the rockstars of Crystal River's inshore scene. These hard-fighting fish love to hang around mangroves and dock pilings, and they'll test your skills with their explosive strikes and powerful runs. The best time to target them is during the warmer months, especially around dawn and dusk. Anglers love snook for their challenging nature and their excellent table fare (when in season).
Sea trout, or spotted seatrout, are another local favorite. These guys are plentiful year-round and are known for their delicate, sweet meat. They're often found over grass flats and can be caught using a variety of methods, from live bait to soft plastics. The "gator" trout (the big ones) are a prized catch and put up a great fight on light tackle.
Redfish, with their distinctive spot near the tail, are a blast to catch. They're known for their strong pulls and can often be spotted tailing in shallow water. Fall is prime time for reds, but you can catch them year-round in Crystal River. Sight-fishing for tailing redfish is an exhilarating experience that keeps anglers coming back for more.
There's something special about combining scalloping and fishing in one trip. It's like getting two adventures for the price of one. You're not just sitting in a boat all day - you're actively involved, whether you're snorkeling for scallops or casting for fish. It's a hands-on experience that's perfect for families, groups of friends, or even a unique date idea. Plus, there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of bringing home your own catch for dinner. Scallops you harvested yourself always taste better, and if you're lucky enough to land a keeper fish, you've got the makings of an epic seafood feast.
This full-day scallop and fishing trip is one of our most popular offerings, and spots fill up fast, especially during peak scallop season. We've got room for up to three people, but it's priced sweet for two. So grab a buddy, your partner, or make it a family outing, and let's get you on the water. Don't forget to pack some drinks and snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day. With all gear provided and Capt. Dave's expertise at your disposal, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure. Ready to make some memories on the water? Give us a call or book online - we can't wait to show you the best of Crystal River!
Redfish are a Crystal River favorite, known for their copper color and black tail spot. Most "reds" we catch run 18-27 inches, but bigger bulls over 40 inches cruise the deeper channels. You'll find them tailing in skinny water, often less than 2 feet deep. Look for them around oyster bars, mangroves, and grass flats. Fall is prime time when they school up to spawn. Redfish are bulldogs - they'll test your drag with powerful runs. Sight fishing for tailing reds in clear shallows gets the adrenaline pumping. Their sweet, mild meat is excellent table fare too. For a fun challenge, try sight casting with a gold spoon or scented soft plastic. Work it slowly past their nose, and hang on when that red decides to eat!
Sea trout, also called speckled trout, are a staple of Crystal River fishing. These spotted beauties usually run 14-20 inches, but trophy gators over 24 inches aren't uncommon. Look for them over grass flats and around oyster bars in 2-6 feet of water. They're most active at dawn and dusk, especially on moving tides. Sea trout are known for their soft mouths, so a gentle hookset is key. They put up a decent fight with head shakes and short runs. The real draw is their taste - mild, flaky meat that's great on the grill. To get into some trout, try drifting live shrimp under a popping cork. Work it with subtle twitches and be ready for that telltale tap-tap bite. Sea trout are perfect for both seasoned anglers and newcomers looking to bend a rod.
Snook are one of the most sought-after gamefish in Crystal River. These sleek predators typically range from 24-34 inches, with some monsters pushing 48 inches. You'll find them lurking around mangroves, docks, and oyster bars in 3-15 feet of water. Spring and fall are prime seasons when water temps are just right. Snook put up an incredible fight - they'll make blistering runs and try to wrap you around structure. Their firm white meat is delicious too, but harvesting is strictly regulated. To boost your chances, try freelining live pilchards or pinfish along mangrove shorelines during incoming tides. The key is a stealthy approach - these fish spook easily. When you hook up, get ready for some of the most exciting inshore action Crystal River has to offer.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 10
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 130