Mini Lobster Season

In today’s blog, we will introduce you to the Mini Lobster Season 2024, also known as the Spiny Lobster Season, and everything related to it. Firstly, to understand what the mini season is, we first need to know what the regular lobster season is. Here are the details for you:

The Regular Lobster Season is an opportunity for people to enjoy harvesting lobsters. It runs for a whopping eight months, from August 6th to March 31st. It is mostly popular among commercial boat owners. There is plenty of time to catch some delicious lobster dinners.

Now, what is the Mini Lobster Season already?! Well, here is what it is:

Imagine a two-day party underwater, searching for spiny lobsters! That’s mini season, which happens every last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday of July It starts at noon Wednesday and goes all the way to midnight Thursday.

This is a great way for non-commercial fishermen to get a chance to get their hands on the fish before the big guys get to them…

The regular lobster season and the lobster mini season are both amazing ways for people to have fun, as well as get a chance to enjoy the seasonal lobster.

Lobster Fun Facts

Let us learn about some of the fun facts about lobsters and spiny lobsters, and understand how these spectacular creatures are different from each other: 

• Unlike their clawed cousins, spiny lobsters have feelers with tiny spikes—that’s why they’re called “spiny”!
• They like to hide in cracks and crevices on the seafloor, so keep your eyes peeled!

Remember, there are size rules to protect the little ones. Make sure your lobster is bigger than 3 inches before you catch it.

When is Mini Lobster Season 2024 in the Keys?

The amazing lobster mini season will take place on July 24th and 25th this year. This is an exciting time for snorkelers and divers to dive in the blue waters and catch lobsters before the regular season starts.

The mini season is specially dedicated for snorkelers and divers to experience the fun of catching lobsters before the big commercial competition starts.

What do you need to take part in the Mini Lobster Season Florida?

It is very important to know what you need before you can participate in the lobster mini season. Some of these things are as follows:

• Essential Permits: You’ll need a valid Florida saltwater fishing license that includes a lobster permit. Don’t forget to bring them along!
• Lobster Gear: Pack your dive or snorkeling gear, and remember to include a lobster gauge to measure your catch before keeping it.
• Know the Rules: Brush up on the size limits and daily bag limits for spiny lobsters in Florida to ensure a legal and sustainable harvest.

Mini Lobster Season 101: Everything You Need to Know

There are a few important things to keep in mind before you catch lobsters. There are certain limits and rules that are made to catch these lobsters. This is so that we can all enjoy this season for years to come. So, it is important for everyone to be sure to be a sport and lobster-hunt responsibly.

Here are the things to remember:

Minimum Size Requirement: Only spiny lobsters with a carapace (the hard shell on their back) bigger than 3 inches from the head to the tail should be fished out. Smaller ones are still growing, so it’s best to leave them alone.

Daily Bag Limit: There’s a daily limit on how many lobsters you can catch. In Monroe County and Biscayne National Park, it’s six lobsters per person, per day. In other parts of Florida, you can catch up to twelve.

Protecting Egg-Bearing Females: Lady lobsters carrying eggs under their tails should not be harvested. These lobsters are busy making more lobsters, so it’s important to let them be.

Bonus tip: It is always best to check the official websites, preferably those of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) in order to get all the detailed information, as well as any updated additional information they may have for you!

Why the Mini Lobster Season is so popular!

• Family Tradition: For many families in Florida, the lobster season is considered as a tradition where families unite and spend an amazing time with their loved ones.
• A Taste of Fresh Seafood: People get a chance to have delicious, fresh lobster treats from the sea. Catching their own dinner gives a sense of thrill to the people of Florida and they love that!
• A Celebration of Summer: The lobster mini season often coincides with the beginning of the summer season in Florida; therefore, signifies the beginning of outdoor activities, meaning people will get more time to spend in the water.
• A Boost to the Local Economy: The mini season comes with many opportunities for local businesses to make additional income through renting out snorkelling equipment, boats, and restaurants featuring lobster-centric delicacies.

Conclusion

The mini lobster season Florida is like a summertime treasure hunt with delicious rewards! It's a chance to catch your own fresh seafood, a fun way to spend a day with family and friends on the water, and a little taste of adventure. Whether you're an experienced diver or a first-timer, there's something special about this short burst of lobster excitement. So, grab your gear, grab a buddy, and get ready to make some splashy memories! Just remember to follow the rules, respect the ocean, and enjoy the thrill of the hunt—it's all part of keeping this unique Florida tradition swimming strong for years to come.