A Deep Dive into Florida Lobster Season: What You Need to Know (and Some Secrets!)

Florida's lobster season is a thrilling time for divers and snorkelers, offering the chance to catch the elusive and delicious spiny lobster. Whether you're a seasoned bug hunter or a first-timer, knowing the rules and having a few tricks up your sleeve will make your experience more successful and, most importantly, legal.

As a company that produces a reliable lobster measuring stick, we at Deep Current Systems know that a successful trip starts with the right gear and a clear understanding of the regulations. So, let's dive into the details of Florida's famous lobster season.

The Seasons: Mini-Season and Regular Season

Florida's lobster season is split into two distinct periods:

Mini-Season (Sport Season): A short, two-day recreational-only season that takes place on the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday of July each year. It's an incredibly popular event, often drawing thousands of divers to the Florida Keys. The bag limit is 6 lobsters per person in Monroe County and Biscayne National Park, and 12 per person for the rest of Florida.
Regular Season: This is the much longer season, running from August 6th through March 31st. During this time, both recreational and commercial harvesters can catch spiny lobster. The bag limit is 6 lobsters per person, per day, statewide.

The Most Important Rule: Size Matters

The cornerstone of Florida's lobster regulations is the size limit. To ensure the sustainability of the population, you are only allowed to harvest lobsters that meet a minimum size requirement.

Carapace Length: The hard part of the lobster's shell, known as the carapace, must be greater than three inches.
Measuring in the Water: This is a crucial detail. You must measure the lobster before you remove it from the water. If it's undersized, it must be released immediately.

This is where a high-quality, accurate lobster measuring stick is your best friend. It's a requirement of the FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) to have a measuring device on hand, and having one that is easy to use and floats is a game-changer. Our Deep Current Systems measuring stick is designed for this exact purpose, helping you quickly and legally determine if your catch is a keeper.

Secrets to Catching Florida Lobster

Now that you know the rules, here are a few "secrets" that seasoned divers use to get the most out of their hunt:

Be a Stealthy Hunter: Lobsters have excellent compound vision and can detect even the slightest movement. Approaching a hole too quickly or with a lot of commotion will often spook them, causing them to wedge themselves deep into the rock or reef. Move slowly and deliberately.
The Snare is Your Best Friend: While a tickle stick and net can work, many experienced divers prefer a snare. This tool is designed to gently loop around the lobster's tail. Once the loop is in place, a quick pull tightens the snare and secures your catch without damaging the lobster. The key is a slow, steady hand to position the snare just right before the quick snap to secure it.
Check Every Crevice: Lobsters are masters of hide-and-seek. Look for their tell-tale antennae sticking out from under ledges, coral heads, and any other structure on the bottom. Don't be afraid to investigate what you think might be a "too small" hole—you'd be surprised what you find.
Work from the Outside In: If you find a hole with multiple lobsters, start by catching the ones closest to the entrance. This will minimize the disturbance and allow you to work your way back to the deeper bugs without spooking them all at once.
Don't Forget Your Gloves: Spiny lobsters are not like their northern cousins—they don't have large claws. However, their shells are covered in sharp spines. A good pair of gloves is essential to protect your hands when handling them.

By following these tips and knowing the regulations, you'll be well on your way to a successful and delicious lobster season. And remember, every successful hunt starts with a reliable tool. Grab a Deep Current Systems lobster measuring stick and get ready to catch some bugs!