California Lobster Season Essentials

California Lobster Season Essentials

Recreational lobster season opens at 6:00 pm on Friday, September 26th and continues through March 18, 2026 at midnight.

The excitement of California Spiny Lobster Season is here! Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a first-timer, having the right gear is crucial for a successful and safe experience. This page is your one-stop-shop for all the essential equipment needed to make the most of your lobster hunting adventures. From durable catch bags to reliable dive lights, we’ve got everything you need to get out there and start hunting.

Essential Gear for a Successful Hunt

1. Catch Bags
Your catch bag is your underwater companion. Look for bags that are not only spacious but also secure, with strong closures to ensure your lobsters stay put as you continue your dive. Our selection features rugged designs that stand up to the toughest underwater conditions.

2. Dive Lights
Visibility can make or break your hunt, especially during night dives or in murky waters. A powerful, reliable dive light is essential for spotting lobsters hiding in crevices. Check out our range of dive lights designed for maximum brightness and long battery life.

3. Lobster Gauges
Stay within the law and protect the lobster population by ensuring every catch meets the legal size requirements. Our lobster gauges are easy to use and built to last, giving you peace of mind on every dive.

4. Bug Hunting Gloves
Lobsters can be feisty, and their spines can be sharp. Protect your hands with our selection of bug hunting gloves made from Kevlar, offering superior durability and grip while handling your catch.

5. Dive Knives and Accessories
Stay prepared for anything with a reliable dive knife, perfect for cutting through tangled lines or dealing with any underwater challenges. Browse our selection of accessories to complete your gear kit.

Essential Gear for a Successful Hunt

Lobster Catch BagsShop All

Dive LightsShop All

California Lobster Gauges

Bug Hunting Gloves

Dive KnivesShop All

Surface Marker Buoys (SMB)Shop All

Spearfishing MasksShop All

Long Blade FinsShop All

Weight BeltsShop All

Regulations: Know the Rules Before You Dive

California Spiny Lobster hunting is a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it comes with responsibilities. Adhering to the state’s rules and regulations ensures that you’re not only enjoying the sport legally but also contributing to the conservation of this valuable resource. Here’s what you need to know before you head out:

Season, Bag Limits, and Size Requirements

  • Season Dates: The recreational lobster season opens at 6:00 p.m. on the Friday preceding the first Wednesday in October and closes at 11:59:59 p.m. on the first Wednesday after the 15th of March.
  • Bag and Possession Limit: You’re allowed to catch and possess up to seven lobsters per person per day.
  • Minimum Size Limit: Lobsters must have a carapace (the part of the shell covering the back) measuring at least 3¼ inches in length. This measurement is taken in a straight line on the midline of the back from the rear edge of the eye socket to the rear edge of the body shell. It’s crucial to use a lobster gauge to ensure compliance. Refer to the Lobster Measurement Diagram (opens in new tab) for proper measurement techniques.

License Requirements

  • Required Permits: You must have a valid California recreational fishing license, a CDFW Spiny Lobster Report Card, and an Ocean Enhancement Validation if fishing in ocean waters south of Point Arguello (Santa Barbara County). If you’re fishing under the authority of a one- or two-day California recreational fishing license, the Ocean Enhancement Validation is not required. You can obtain these from the CDFW’s Online License Sales and Service (opens in new tab).

Gear Allowances and Requirements

  • Skin and Scuba Divers: Only your hands can be used to take lobsters—no spears, traps, or other tools are permitted.
  • Pier Fishing: You’re allowed to use up to 2 hoop nets while fishing from a public pier.
  • Vessel Fishing: If you’re fishing from a vessel, you may use up to 5 hoop nets, but the total number of hoop nets from a vessel cannot exceed 10, regardless of the number of people on board.

Fishing Locations

To ensure you’re fishing in legal waters, consult the CDFW Ocean Sport Fishing Interactive Web Map (opens in new tab). This map will help you identify the best spots for lobster hunting while staying within legal boundaries.

Hoop Nets Prohibited 24 Hours Prior to Season Opener

Keep in mind that hoop nets may not be deployed south of Point Arguello, Santa Barbara County, during the 24 hours leading up to the recreational lobster season opener. Plan your trip accordingly to avoid any violations.