Best Gear For Scalloping and Snorkeling

I have been snorkeling most of my life and hunting for scallops for the last 10 years. I’ve learned that not having the best gear for scalloping and snorkeling could make for a miserable day.

Here is my curated list of gear choices I use whenever I go out on the water. Whether you’re just going for a snorkel, or you plan to catch your limit of scallops during scallop season, be sure to pack appropriately! And most of all, have a safe and wonderful time on the water.

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Snorkel Gear

The following gear list is great for snorkeling and diving, as most pieces can be used with both sports.

Recently, the full-face snorkel mask has gained momentum as a popular choice for snorkelers. I recently used one of these on a cruise excursion and enjoyed the concept, but as they say, it’s hard to teach an old dog… I am just so used to using my dive mask for all water sports! My husband uses a snorkel set, and loves it because the snorkel has a float valve to keep the water out!

Slip On or Adjustable Fins? Oh boy, this all depends on your personal preference. I love the adjustable fins because if I have guests on the boat who wish to take a turn, adjustable fins will fit any adult foot.

The caveat is that you have to wear some form of dive bootie for these to fit properly and, of course, each person would need their own. Conversely, if you have slip-on fins that fit you, specifically, you don’t need to have the booties. It boils down to a matter of personal preference.

This is a start for the best gear for snorkeling. The basics and will get you face down in the water in no time. Are you looking to elevate your snorkeling game?

FleurtyGirl is ready to snorkel from her paddleboard.

Additional Helpful Gear

I don’t feel so vulnerable when my skin is covered. There are jellyfish, other critters, and certain corals that could cause skin irritation. I recently added a full-body rash guard to my kit and I love it! I feel much more secure from the critters and the brutal sunshine!

Speaking of feeling more secure, I’m not a fan of touching things with my bare hands, so I always wear a pair of gloves, especially when collecting scallops!

Having a rash guard or SPF shirt and pants is going to protect your backside the best from sunburn. However, if you do not have these useful garments, please consider using a reef-safe sunblock to help protect our environment.

The best place to Snorkel in St. Petersburg, FL, is at Egmont Key. There are many tours to choose from if you’re looking to snorkel while you’re here!

As with most hobbies, branded gear can be expensive. I have been using a mesh sports duffel bag for a gear bag and, at a fraction of the cost of a dive bag, it works fantastically!

To keep my mask clear of fog, I’ve been using Quick Spit and it works great! Some people have an aversion to actually spitting in their masks to avoid fog.

If you enjoy taking pictures with your action camera, my newest and most favorite accessory for the GoPro is the dome. Oh my goodness, I love using it to see what kind of amazing shots I can get. It captures above and below the waterline.

FleurtyGirl holding the dome port before snorkeling

Additional Gear for Scalloping

Yay! You’re visiting our great state during the Florida Scallop Season! Make the most of your visit and make some awesome memories.

A diver-down flag is required when snorkelers and divers are in the water. This alerts the other boaters to stay a safe distance away.

Using an easy-to-open bag for collecting your scallops makes the job easy! I’ve had drawstring bags and hook-and-loop closing bags, they work okay, but I wasted too much time fumbling around with my bag.

For cleaning your scallops, you’ll want to get a pack of shucking knives and get your friends and family involved to help! This should, after all, be a group effort!

Hire a Boat

You don’t have to have a boat to enjoy these water activities. Captain Experiences offers vetted captains for various fishing adventures, including scalloping. Check out the great list of captains and boats available for your experience.

Breakin’ It Down: Best Gear for Scalloping and Snorkeling

Do you know the ol’ saying? A bad day fishing is better than a good day at work. Yes, it’s true for most folks, but with the best gear for scalloping and snorkeling, the chances of having a great day fishing are bound to increase. Get out there, be safe, and enjoy making memories on the water.