That’s right. Every July the coastal areas of Florida are infiltrated with die hard lobster hunters who are trying to get their share of this year’s bounty. There are 2 Florida Lobster seasons:
Mini Season: – 2 Day Season (typically the last consecutive Wednesday & Thursday of July) This year: July 28th & July 29th.
Regular Season : 8 month Season August 6 through March 31.
Will you be participating this year? If so, here are a couple of guidelines to remember:
Bag limits: 6 per person per day for Monroe County and Biscayne National Park, and 12 per person per day for the rest of Florida.
Possession limit - on the water: equal to the daily bag limit
Possession limit - off the water: equal to the daily bag limit on the first day, and double the daily bag limit on the second day.
Possession limits are enforced on and off the water.
Minimum size limit: must be larger than 3″ carapace, measured in the water. A reminder that possession and use of a measuring device is required at all times, and night diving is prohibited in Monroe County (only during the sport season).
License requirements: A recreational saltwater license and a crawfish permit are needed for harvest.
Now that we have the guidelines for abiding by the Law, here are some general guidelines for you & your family.
- It’s going to be HOT no matter where you lobster. Remember to always have cold fresh water to stay hydrated. If you get too hot, jump in the water to cool your body temperature down. Do you have family that doesn’t like to jump into the ocean (we all have at least one). Look into a portable boat mister to keep everyone comfortable during this 2010 Mini Lobster Season.
- If your family is anything like the die hard lobster hunters I see when I am out there, be sure to pack snacks because it means you will out on the water ALL DAY.
- Be courteous of the other boaters around you. Mini Season leads to a lot of boaters on the water at the same time. Abide by all of the channel signs and wake zones.
Most Importantly………..HAVE FUN & BE SAFE.
