GREAT FLORIDA FISHING: LOBSTER

Great Florida Fishing: Lobster Fishing Adventure in Florida

Welcome to the thrilling world of lobster fishing in Florida, a place where the marine life is as diverse as the experiences waiting for you beneath the waves. Whether you're a seasoned diver or just starting out, Florida’s lobster fishing season offers an exhilarating blend of adventure, sport, and the chance to savor the fruits of your catch.

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2024 Lobster Season and Mini Season Dates

Mini Sport Season: July 24-25, 2024 (Last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday of July each year)

Daily Bag Limit: 6 per person in Monroe County and Biscayne National Park; 12 per person for the rest of Florida

 

Regular Season: August 6, 2024 - March 31, 2025

Daily Bag Limit: 6 per person

The possession limit on the water is equal to the daily bag limit. The possession limit off the water is equal to the daily bag limit on the first day and double the daily bag limit on the second day.

The minimum size limit for the carapace is greater than 3 inches, measured in the water. A measuring device is required at all times. Night diving is prohibited in Monroe County during the sport season.

Restrictions:

Harvest of lobster is prohibited in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park during the sport season and in certain areas of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Everglades National Park, Dry Tortugas National Park, Biscayne Bay/Card Sound Lobster Sanctuary, and Coral Reef Protection Areas in Biscayne National Park during both the 2-day sport season and the regular season.

Please check the FWC website for any updates or changes to these regulations before planning your lobster fishing trip.

Notable Locations for Lobster Fishing

The Florida Keys

Regarded as a top destination, the Florida Keys, particularly the middle Keys area including Marathon, Duck Key, and Long Key, are renowned for their spiny lobster spots. The coral reefs and rocky areas around Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach also provide ideal habitats for these elusive crustaceans.

South Florida

South Florida, encompassing Jupiter, Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami, stands out with its unique advantage of night lobster fishing. Lobsters, being nocturnal travelers, are more active after sundown, offering a different kind of fishing experience.

 

The Lobster Hunting Challenge

Lobster fishing in Florida isn’t just a casual dive; it’s a sport that tests your skills and patience. The Caribbean spiny lobster, known locally as "bugs", are quick and well-camouflaged, making the hunt both challenging and exciting. Unlike their Maine cousins, these lobsters lack large claws, relying instead on their speed for defense. They are known to move significant distances, sometimes even returning to their starting points after lengthy travels.

 

Regulations and Conservation

Responsible lobster fishing is key to preserving this wonderful activity for future generations. Familiarize yourself with the size and type of lobsters you can legally harvest. The average legal lobster has a carapace length of three inches and weighs about a pound. Additionally, it's crucial to identify and release egg-bearing females, known as "berried" lobsters, to sustain the population.

 

Final Thoughts

Embarking on a lobster fishing adventure in Florida is not just about the catch; it’s about immersing yourself in the beauty and mystery of the ocean. Whether you're navigating the vibrant coral reefs of the Keys or exploring the nocturnal world of South Florida's lobster grounds, each dive promises a unique and memorable experience. So gear up, dive in, and get ready for an aquatic adventure like no other!