Category: Hunting and Fishing Seasons

Every summer, residents and visitors gather across the shores of Wakulla County to harvest delicious bay scallops and beat the heat on the Gulf of Mexico. Here is what you need to know to get started on planning your own scalloping trip.

2023 Scalloping Season Basics

The 2023 scalloping season for the shores of Wakulla County is open from July 1 to September 24, 2023. This season applies to all recreational harvesting of bay scallops in these waters.

Catching bay scallops is simple and fun, and the whole family can partake as long as everyone practices safety recommendations and adheres to the legal requirements. The best place to look for bay scallops is near the bottom of seagrass beds where the sandy part of the ocean floor butts up against the grassier areas. Some scalloping areas may be reachable on foot, while others require you to take a boat slightly offshore.

Wakulla County Scalloping Legal Requirements

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission maintains strict scalloping practices for the enjoyment of everyone and the preservation of this important natural resource. First, it’s important to note that harvesters between the ages of 16 and 65 are required to have a valid Florida fishing license on them while collecting scallops.

The bag limit is 2 gallons of whole scallops (in the shell), or 1 pint of scallop meat, per person per day. In addition, you may not keep more than 10 gallons of whole scallops or 1/2 gallon of scallop meat aboard any vessel at any time. It’s considered wise to only keep scallops that are 1.5 inches to 2 inches in size, both because they are generally large enough to eat, and it allows the smaller specimens more time to grow.

Preparing Your Fresh Catch

Bay scallops are as delicious as they are versatile, and enjoying a meal of freshly prepared scallops is one of the true pleasures of harvesting them. Simply sautée them in butter and garlic and serve with pasta and a generous garnish of herbs to create a memorable summer dinner. Bay scallops also make great ceviche when cured in citrus juice and refrigerated for 6 to 8 hours, and then added to accompaniments such as chopped tomato, onion, jalapeno, and olives.

Making the Most of Your Scalloping Excursion

Some common items that you may need for scalloping include a swim mask, swim fins, snorkel, and a mesh bag for holding your catch. Keep in mind that you are required by law to display a divers flag when snorkelers are in the water. Visit one of our many marine supply stores to get outfitted for your trip, and discover how many more incredible fishing opportunities await you in the waters of Wakulla County.

Download the Scalloping Guide to Wakulla County

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With hunting season upon us, we want to remind anyone who plans on going hunting of this season’s dates and species available. All wild game can only be hunted at certain times of year, in specific zones, with certain methods of take, and some also have bag limits. Make sure you are aware and up to date on all this information before you head out there!

Wakulla County is on the border of Zone C & D. Check with the FWC Zone Map to ensure you know what zone you will be hunting in.

Deer

Antlered Deer

Don’t forget about youth deer hunting weekend from October 26 – 27.

Don’t forget about youth deer hunting weekend from Dec. 7 – 8.

Antlerless Deer

Don’t forget about youth deer hunting weekend from Oct. 26 – 27.

Don’t forget about youth deer hunting weekend from Dec. 7 – 8.

For more information on general gun regulations, bag limits, dog training season, youth deer hunt weekend, and more, visit the FWC deer calendar.

Turkey

This refers only to bearded and gobbler turkeys, and only includes fall season dates. The daily bag limit for turkeys is two, and the season possession limit is two for all seasons combined.

Fall turkey season is November 2 – December 29.

Fall turkey season is Nov. 28 -Dec. 1, Dec. 14 – Jan. 19.

Duck

Shooting hours are one half-hour before sunrise until sunset until otherwise noted. Hunters must have a $5 waterfowl permit and a $28.50 Federal duck stamp in addition to a license and migratory bird permit when hunting waterfowl. Migratory birds are permitted-only game – check FWC for bag and possession limits.

Gray Squirrel & Quail

Gray squirrel season is open statewide from Nov. 9 through March 3, and quail season opens statewide from Nov. 9 through March 2. Both have daily bag limits of 12 and possession limits of 24.

Bobcat & Otter

Bobcat season is open statewide from Dec. 1 through March 31. Otter season also opens statewide on Dec. 1 but closes on March 1. There are no bag limits for either.

Rabbits, Wild Hogs, Raccoons, Opossums, Skunks, Nutrias, Beaver, & Coyotes

Any game listed above may be taken year-round. The only species limit is on rabbits, whose daily bag limit is 12, and possession limit is 24. For more information on zones, what methods of take are allowed, and other details necessary to hunt, please visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s full season calendar.

Thank you for your interest in Wakulla’s hunting season and good luck out there!

Friday, June 4 establishes the beginning of red snapper season in the Gulf of Mexico, one of the most thrilling times of the year for anglers around the country. Keep reading to make you know all the ins and outs of this season to make the most of your time on the Gulf.

Our Longest Season Yet

Beginning on Friday, June 4, anglers will be able to take advantage of 55 days to get out on the open water and catch some red snappers. Governor Ron DeSantis announced in a Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission press release that this year’s season will run from June 4 – July 28, 2021 with a potential reopening this fall, if there’s available quota.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission this will be the longest red snapper season in the Gulf of Mexico yet. It is still a limited window, however, so make sure that you’re prepared to catch one of the most popular species of fish in the region.

Have a Successful Season

Wakulla County already has everything you’ll need to set yourself up for a successful snapper season. Local boat ramps, some directly into the Gulf of Mexico, are available to ensure that you will have convenient access straight to the open water and local marinas and tackle shops, in the heart of Wakulla County, are ready to restock your supplies all summer long.

Shell Island Fish Camp and Marina is one of the most popular spots for anglers in Wakulla County. It is locally owned and operated since 1942 and is a full-service marina that offers a wide range of marine services and products. The Marina also has lodging available right next to the hub of all snapper action and their boat ramp has direct access into the Gulf.

Spend a Summer of Snapper Success in Wakulla County

Come to Wakulla County for the red snapper and stay for the marvels of the relaxing boating community surrounding them. After spending your days on the open water, enjoy endless environmental explorations from scenic hiking trails to beachside horseback riding, sure to guarantee a snapper season for the book’s.

As hunting season begins, we want to remind anyone who plans on getting out there of the season dates and species available. All wild game can only be hunted at certain types of year, in specific zones, with certain methods of take, and some also have bag limits. Make sure you are up to date on all this information before you head out!

*Wakulla County is on the border of Zone C & D. Check with the FWC Zone Map to ensure you know what zone you will be hunting in.

Deer

Antlered Deer

Zone C

Don’t forget about youth deer hunting weekend from October 31 – Nov. 1

Zone D

Don’t forget about youth deer hunting weekend from Dec. 5 – 6.

Antlerless Deer

Zone C

Don’t forget about youth deer hunting weekend from Oct. 31 through Nov. 1.

Zone D

Don’t forget about youth deer hunting weekend from Dec. 5 through 6.

*For more information on general gun regulations, bag limits, dog training season, youth deer hunt weekend, and more, visit the FWC deer calendar.

Turkey

This refers only to bearded and gobbler turkeys, and only includes fall season dates. The daily bag limit for turkeys is two, and the season possession limit is two for all seasons combined.

Zone C

Fall turkey season is November 7 through January 3.

Zone D

Fall turkey season is Nov. 26 through 29 and Dec. 12 through Jan. 17.

Gray Squirrel & Quail

Gray squirrel season is open statewide from Oct. 10 through March 7, and quail season opens statewide from Nov. 14 through March 7. Both have daily bag limits of 12 and possession limits of 24.

Bobcat & Otter

Bobcat season is open statewide from Dec. 1 through March 31.

Otter season also opens statewide on Dec. 1 but closes on March 1. There are no bag limits for either.

Rabbits, Wild Hogs, Raccoons, Opossums, Skunks, Nutrias, Beaver, & Coyotes

Any game listed above may be taken year-round. The only species limit is on rabbits, whose daily bag limit is 12, and possession limit is 24.

For more information on zones, what methods of take are allowed, and other details necessary to hunt, please visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s full season calendar. Thank you for your interest in Wakulla’s hunting season and good luck out there!

Every summer, residents and visitors gather across the shores of Wakulla County to harvest delicious bay scallops and beat the heat on the Gulf of Mexico. Here is what you need to know to get started on planning your own scalloping trip.

2019 Scalloping Season Basics

The 2019 scalloping season for the shores of Wakulla County is open from July 1 to September 24, 2019. This season applies to all recreational harvesting of bay scallops in these waters.

Catching bay scallops is simple and fun, and the whole family can partake as long as everyone practices safety recommendations and adheres to the legal requirements. The best place to look for bay scallops is near the bottom of seagrass beds where the sandy part of the ocean floor butts up against the grassier areas. Some scalloping areas may be reachable on foot, while others require you to take a boat slightly offshore.

Wakulla County Scalloping Legal Requirements

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission maintains strict scalloping practices for the enjoyment of everyone and the preservation of this important natural resource. First, it’s important to note that harvesters between the ages of 16 and 65 are required to have a valid Florida fishing license on them while collecting scallops.

The bag limit is 2 gallons of whole scallops (in the shell), or 1 pint of scallop meat, per person per day. In addition, you may not keep more than 10 gallons of whole scallops or 1/2 gallon of scallop meat aboard any vessel at any time. It’s considered wise to only keep scallops that are 1.5 inches to 2 inches in size, both because they are generally large enough to eat, and it allows the smaller specimens more time to grow.

Preparing Your Fresh Catch

Bay scallops are as delicious as they are versatile, and enjoying a meal of freshly prepared scallops is one of the true pleasures of harvesting them. Simply sautée them in butter and garlic and serve with pasta and a generous garnish of herbs to create a memorable summer dinner. Bay scallops also make great ceviche when cured in citrus juice and refrigerated for 6 to 8 hours, and then added to accompaniments such as chopped tomato, onion, jalapeno, and olives.

Making the Most of Your Scalloping Excursion

Some common items that you may need for scalloping include a swim mask, swim fins, snorkel, and a mesh bag for holding your catch. Keep in mind that you are required by law to display a divers flag when snorkelers are in the water. Visit one of our many marine supply stores to get outfitted for your trip, and discover how many more incredible fishing opportunities await you in the waters of Wakulla County.

Download the Scalloping Guide to Wakulla County

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Father’s Day is just around the corner, and instead of getting dad a variation of the same necktie you gave him last year, why not treat him to an experience he’ll never forget: a Father’s Day fishing adventure in Wakulla County.

Wakulla County Is a Haven for Every Type of Angler

One of the best things about spending this Father’s Day casting lines in Wakulla County is that there are fishing options to suit everyone’s taste. Is your dad a seasoned angler who likes to head way offshore in search of deep-sea glory? Then set out on one of our many boat ramps into the Gulf of Mexico and get ready for a day of saltwater fishing excellence. Is he a casual fisherman who just wants to enjoy a relaxing day on a dock with his kids? Then maybe one of our numerous lakes, streams, and rivers are more his style.

From modest ponds to the majestic gulf, the towns, shores, and protected areas of Wakulla County are teeming with unique fishing opportunities. Popular species such as bass, redfish, grouper, and snapper can all be found in our waters. There are also great places to go fishing from a kayak, as the hosts of the series Hooked on Wild Waters found out when they recently took an excursion to Panacea.

Get Outfitted with Everything You Need for a Successful Trip

Every great fishing trip begins with the right gear. Wakulla County is home to numerous marinas, tackle shops, and guide services that will have you prepared for the best Father’s Day ever. Whether you just need to stock up on hooks and bait or charter a full-service guide, you can be sure that you will have everything you need before hitting the water.

Plan for Scalloping Season with Dad

Even though the season starts after Father’s Day, you can give your dad the gift of an upcoming trip to Wakulla to go scalloping! Beginning in July, scalloping season is one of the most popular times of the year for seafood fans. Be sure to read the regulations on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website before starting your scalloping adventure.

Enjoy a Father’s Day Weekend in the Wild, Picturesque Lands of Wakulla County

Enjoying a day on the boat with dad is a special experience, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the natural adventures open to you in Wakulla County. Visit our accommodations page to start planning your Father’s Day weekend now, and turn your excursion with dad into a thrilling exploration of mother nature.

It’s time once again for the arrival of the season that anglers all over the Gulf Coast region dream about; gag grouper season is open in the state waters of Wakulla County from April 1 to June 30! The gag grouper is one of the most prized fish in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico because it is fun to catch and makes a delicious meal. Find out what you need to know in order to fish safely and legally and have a fantastic gag grouper season in 2019.

Successful fishing trips begin with following regulations

As you plan your trip to catch some beautiful gag grouper, it’s crucial to understand and follow the laws and regulations governing recreational fishing. First, note that this season only applies to gag grouper caught in state waters off the coast of Wakulla County, extending 9 miles from the shore.

Never engage in any recreational fishing—whether from a boat or the shore—unless you have a valid Florida fishing license on your person. Gag grouper must be a minimum of 24 inches in total length to be kept, and the daily bag limit is 2 per person within 4 grouper aggregate. These regulations are strictly enforced by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, so know your limitations before you cast a line.

Tips for getting the most out of this gag grouper season

Safety is another important concern when fishing for gag grouper. Follow safe boating procedures, and make sure to look for dive flags indicating divers in the water. The Florida sun can be intense even in the spring, so double check that you have plenty of water and sun protection before going out in the gulf.

To make sure you’re properly outfitted for your angling adventure, visit one of Wakulla County’s well-appointed outfitters. There are many different boat ramps that can take you into the Gulf of Mexico, but some of the most popular in the include Myron B. Hodge City Park in Sopchoppy, the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, and Rock Landing Ramp in Panacea.

Immerse yourself in the natural wonder of Wakulla County

Catching gag grouper is only the beginning of an unforgettable natural excursion in Wakulla County. Whether you want to explore additional fishing opportunities, photograph some stunning animals in their unspoiled habitats, or relax near our beaches, rivers, and lakes, we are ready to welcome you to our natural paradise. Start planning your trip today and find out just how much there is to see in Wakulla County.

The 2018 scalloping season in Wakulla County runs from July 1 – September 24, so now is the time to get prepared with everything you need to have a fantastic season!

What you need to know before you go scalloping

Recreational scalloping is a great opportunity for Wakulla County locals and visitors to spend some summer days on our beautiful waters and harvest delicious scallops to eat. It’s one of the most anticipated times of the year for seafood lovers all around, but there are some important rules and regulations that must be followed to ensure that everyone has a safe and successful scalloping season, and that scallops will be available for many years into the future.

First and foremost, every person scalloping must have a valid Florida saltwater fishing license on their person while they are harvesting, even if you aren’t on a boat. Check out the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission website for more details on fishing licenses.

Also, please use only your hands or a dip net to harvest scallops, and abide by the bag limits:

• 2 gallons whole bay scallops in shell, or 1 pint of bay scallop meat per person
• Maximum of 10 gallons of whole bay scallops in shell, or 1/2 gallon bay scallop meat per vessel

How you can have a safe and fun time in the water

Harvesting bay scallops is perfect summer fun for the whole family, as long as you follow some important safety guidelines. A mask, snorkel, and fins will help you swim confidently in the water, and you are required to put a dive flag up on your boat when swimmers are in the water to alert nearby boaters.

Try to stay close to your boat: if an area doesn’t seem to have much activity, head back to your boat and find a new spot. Bring plenty of water and reapply sunscreen liberally, because the summer sun in Florida is no joke!

Tips for scalloping success

Most scallops will be found near the bottom of seagrass beds, especially where they meet the sand. Once you bring them back to the boat, keep your scallops on ice in a cooler until you get home. The internet is full of great recipe ideas for succulent, delicious bay scallops to suit your cooking skill level. Of course, you can’t go wrong with simply sautéing them in some butter and adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley!

You can view our accommodations options to start planning your scalloping excursion today, and see many of the other incredible ways you can spend your summer outdoors in Wakulla County.

Download the Scalloping Guide

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Every year, recreational anglers flock to the Florida gulf coast to test their luck at catching one of the most sought-after species of fish in the country: the red snapper. This year, the red snapper season will last for 40 days, instead of the original 24 that was proposed. This means that fishing enthusiasts have even more time to get out on the water and land some of these remarkable fish.

This year you can enjoy even more time to cast your line for red snapper

The Gulf of Mexico is one of the most important places in the world for red snapper fishing, and the waters near Wakulla County are a great place to get in on the action and snag some of these beautiful fish. This year, Governor Rick Scott, along with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, announced that the recreational red snapper fishing season would be extended to a full 40 days from 24 days, which was the original plan going into the season. This year, anglers can hit the water to catch red snapper beginning on June 11, and the season will end on July 21.

Red snapper in the Gulf of Mexico

Red Snapper is one of the most prized species of fish throughout the western Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico for commercial and recreational anglers alike. Diners love the fish because of its slightly sweet, mild, tender flesh and versatility in cooking. The fresher the red snapper you can get your hands on the better it is likely to be, so this extended season is the perfect chance to cook a snapper that is straight out of the gulf waters.

While red snapper population numbers plummeted in the 1990s because of overfishing, stricter regulations on catches have allowed them to rebound steadily. Recreational anglers in Florida are limited to two daily red snapper per person, and they must be at least 16 inches long in order to be kept.

Fishing in the waters of Wakulla County

Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico and our many freshwater sources is one of the great pleasures of a visit to Wakulla County. We want you to have a safe and enjoyable red snapper season, so make sure that you always practice safe boating procedures, and remember that all anglers fishing in Florida waters must have a valid Florida fishing license on their person at all times while on the water.

Red snapper season is one of the most anticipated times of the year, but there are so many more fishing opportunities and outdoor adventures to experience in Wakulla County! Start planning your trip today, and spend part of your summer in our outdoor paradise.

As of April 1, 2018, recreational gag grouper season is officially open in the coastal waters of Wakulla County! Find out how you can enjoy the season safely and responsibly while soaking up the pleasures of this wonderful time of year.

Everything you need to know for a successful fishing season

The grouper is an iconic species of fish throughout the waters of the Gulf of Mexico; prized by both anglers for its abundance, as well as by diners for its tender flesh and mild, clean flavor. Every year, visitors and residents of Wakulla County have an opportunity to test their mettle in the gulf waters off the coast and fish for this remarkable species.

Wakulla County is a haven for anglers, and there are numerous tackle shops and outfitters here that can supply you with everything you need for your gag grouper excursion. On the way to your preferred launch area, be sure to stop by one of the local suppliers such as Shell Island Fish Camp and Marina, Rock Landing Marina, or AMS Marine Supply to ensure you are properly stocked for your journey.

There are several convenient places throughout the area where you can begin your fishing adventure. Some of the ramps, like the St. Marks City River Park ramp and the Newport ramp launch into the St. Marks River, which you can then follow into the Gulf of Mexico. If you prefer to launch directly into the gulf you have several options available to you as well, including the Rock Landing ramp and the ramp at the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge Visitor’s Center.

Always remember to fish safely and legally

Gag grouper season is one of the best times of the year for angling enthusiasts, but it’s important to remember the proper protocols before you hit the water. Most importantly, you must have a valid Florida fishing license on you anytime you are fishing. Also, remember to follow size and catch limits to ensure that these beautiful fish remain in our waters for generations to come. Gag grouper must be at least 24 inches in order to be kept, and each person can only harvest four fish per day (two of which may be kept). Finally, remember to bring sunscreen and drinking water, and always practice safe boating no matter where you are.

Plan an exciting natural adventure in Wakulla County

Fishing for gag grouper is just one of many opportunities in Wakulla County to connect with nature and embrace the spirit of the outdoors. We encourage you to book a few nights in one of our accommodations that suits you best, and take the time to dig deep into the natural wonders of Wakulla County. Whether that means hiking, wildlife watching, or simply more fishing, we’ve got you covered!