Scallop prices soar as demand increases

LONG ISLAND, NY (FOX 5 NY) - Seafood lovers may be feeling a little 'seasick' over the price of scallops these days.

Peconic Bay scallops are back.  However, the season is off to a slow start.

Some blame the warm summer and the rust tide in the Peconic Bay. Others blamed environmental factors. Charlie Manwaring, owner of Southold Fish Market, said the scarcity of scallops is probably half, if not a third of what it was last year. 

“Last year the guys were getting their limit coming in at noon. This year, they're putting in a full day and not even getting their limit,” Manwaring said.

It's supply and demand. Even though the scallopers are catching less, they still need to be paid.

This season - retail prices are 25% higher. People are still stocking up for $27-45/lb.

Scallops have a two-year life cycle. Experts hope next year's season will be more promising.

“There are guys who have seen small scallops. We call them buds. There are three or four sets. That's a good sign for next year,” said Charlie.

As for this year, he anticipates a shorter season and hopes Mother Nature will make up for any losses.