With the Florida spiny lobster sport season starting on July 24th and 25th, followed by the regular recreational season opening on August 6th, here’s what you need to know for a fun and safe lobstering experience:
Regulations:
- Lobsters must have a minimum 3-inch carapace length (measured in water).
- Daily bag limits: 6 per person in Monroe County and Biscayne National Park; 12 per person in other state waters.
- For detailed regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Marine [invalid URL removed] or KeysLobsterSeason.com for the Keys.
Read: Florida Gulf Coast Fishing Report – July 22, 2024
Licenses and Permits:
- Obtain a recreational saltwater fishing license and spiny lobster permit at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
- 2024 Lionfish Challenge Coin holders can harvest two extra lobsters per day.
Responsible Practices:
- Direct bully netting lights towards the water and avoid shining them at houses or people.
- Keep noise levels low near shoreline residences.
- Avoid touching corals and other marine life. Join the Florida Coral Crew at FLCoralCrew.com to help protect our reefs.
Read: Stressed Florida Black Bear Was In No Mood For ‘Selfies’
Safety First:
- Always wear a life jacket when on a vessel.
- Designate a sober boat operator.
- When diving, stay within 300 feet of a divers-down flag in open water and 100 feet near inlets or channels.
- Boat operators must slow to idle speed within those distances of a divers-down flag.
- For more information, visit MyFWC.com/Boating.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and responsible lobstering adventure while helping preserve Florida’s marine resources.
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