Florida Lobster Mini-Season Gear Guide

Florida’s two-day lobster mini-season—July 30–31, 2025—is a must-do for divers across the country.

Get ready for one of the most exciting events in Florida diving – Lobster Mini-Season! From catch bags to gauges, we have everything you need to make your bug-hunting adventure a success.

💡 Quick Tip: Choose a spring-loaded or hinged opening for quick, one-handed use.

Why You Need It: A quality catch bag is essential for safely securing your lobsters while keeping your hands free. Look for durable mesh that drains water quickly, corrosion-resistant hardware, and a secure closure system that prevents escape.

💡 Quick Tip: Opt for Kevlar or reinforced palm gloves to handle sharp spines safely.

Why You Need It: Lobsters have sharp antennae and rough shells. Proper gloves protect your hands while improving grip on slippery catches without harming marine life.

📏 Legal Requirement: Florida law requires you to measure every lobster before it goes in your bag.

Pro Tip: Stainless steel or aluminum gauges are best for durability. Keep your gauge attached to your catch bag or BCD with a lanyard so you don’t lose it during the dive.

💡 Quick Tip: Use a tickle stick to gently coax lobsters out.

Why You Need It: Tickle sticks let you stay legal and eco-friendly by avoiding reef damage. Pair your stick with a small dive knife for emergencies and line cutting during your hunt.

1. When is the Florida Lobster Season? There are two Florida Lobster Seasons, the 2-day mini season and the 8-month regular lobster season. The regular lobster season opens August 6 - March 31, 2025.

2. How many lobsters can I catch during the season? The bag limit for recreational harvesters during Florida Lobster Season is six lobsters per person per day in Monroe County and Biscayne National Park, and 12 lobsters per person per day in the rest of Florida. The possession limit is equal to the daily bag limit, which means you cannot have more lobsters than the allowed bag limit in your possession while on the water or off.

3. What are the size requirements for harvesting lobsters? Lobsters harvested in Florida must meet the minimum size requirements. The carapace (the body shell, excluding the tail) must be larger than 3 inches, measured in a straight line from the rear edge to the front edge of the carapace. If the lobster's carapace is undersized, it must be immediately released.

4. What equipment do I need for lobster hunting? To catch lobsters, you will need a few essential items, including a valid Florida saltwater fishing license with a crawfish endorsement, a tickle stick or a net, a lobster measuring gauge to measure the carapace size, and a dive flag or buoy to mark your location while in the water. Additionally, many people use a snorkel, mask, fins, and a dive flag float system for safety and convenience.

5. Are there any restricted areas for lobster hunting? Yes, there are certain areas where lobster hunting is restricted. For instance, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo prohibits lobster hunting. It's crucial to review the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's regulations and any local ordinances to ensure you are aware of any restricted areas where lobster hunting is not allowed.

6. Can I use scuba gear to catch lobsters? During the regular Florida Lobster Season, you are allowed to use scuba gear to catch lobsters, except in Monroe County (Florida Keys) and Biscayne National Park. In these areas, divers must catch lobsters by snorkeling or free diving only. The use of any underwater breathing apparatus, including scuba gear, is prohibited.

7. What other prohibitions when catching Florida lobsters? The harvest or possession of eggbearing spiny lobster, or any other eggbearing species of lobster belonging to the families Palinuridae (spiny lobsters), Scyllaridae (slipper lobsters) or Synaxidae (furry lobsters) is prohibited.

8. How can I stay updated on the Florida Lobster Season regulations? To stay updated on the Florida Lobster Season regulations, it's recommended to regularly check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's website (https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/lobster/) for the most current information. They provide up-to-date guidelines, bag limits, size requirements, and any changes or closures related to lobster hunting.

Remember, regulations and guidelines may change, so it's essential to consult the official sources and be aware of any updates before engaging in lobster hunting activities.