Pasco County’s bay scallop season has been put on hold after state officials detected elevated levels of contaminants in the water.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announced the precautionary suspension, citing health concerns. A similar pause occurred during the 2024 season.

The impacted area stretches from the Hernando-Pasco county line south to the Anclote Key Lighthouse in northern Pinellas County.

FWC officials noted that only 10 days remain in the season, and a significant portion of scallops have already been harvested.

There is no timeline yet for when the pause may be lifted. In the meantime, recreational activities like swimming, boating, and fishing are still allowed in the affected waters.

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