Florida Keys Lobster Season: A Time-Honored Tradition in the Islands
Every summer, the Florida Keys come alive with excitement as lobster season kicks off! It brings with it boaters, divers, and seafood lovers all eager to take part in one of the region’s most iconic events. For locals and visitors alike, chasing spiny lobster through the waters of the Keys isn’t just a pastime, it’s a tradition. From Key Largo to Key West, lobster season offers the perfect mix of adventure, community, and incredible fresh-caught meals.
Two Seasons, One Big Tradition
The season is divided into two parts: the much-anticipated Mini Season, also known as Sport Season, and the Regular Lobster Season. Mini Season is a two-day event that always falls on the last Wednesday and Thursday of July. It’s designed specifically for recreational divers and snorkelers to get a jump on the action before commercial harvesting begins. If you’re planning to visit during these two days, expect busy boat ramps and packed reefs. The Regular Season opens shortly after mini season. Regular season runs from August 6 through March 31. This long season allows plenty of time for locals and late-season visitors to get in on the hunt.
Best Lobstering Spots in the Florida Keys
The Keys are considered the epicenter of Florida lobstering, and for good reason. The warm, clear water, abundant coral heads, and endless patch reefs create an ideal habitat for spiny lobster. Popular spots include the backcountry areas near Islamorada, the shallow reefs off Marathon, and the nearshore ledges around Big Pine Key. That said, not all waters are open, so it’s critical to know where you’re diving. Many conservation areas, like parts of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and areas in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, are off-limits to lobstering.
Know the Rules Before You Dive
Regulations are strictly enforced in the Keys, and for good reason. Overharvesting could damage the sustainability of this treasured local resource. During both seasons , the daily limit is 6 lobsters per person, and the carapace must measure more than 3 inches, checked in the water using a proper gauge. Egg-bearing females must be released, and all divers must display a dive flag. Everyone participating must also have a valid Florida Saltwater Fishing License with a Spiny Lobster Permit.
The Experience: More Than Just the Catch
Lobstering in the Keys is about more than just catching your limit, it’s about the experience. Whether you’re free diving shallow patch reefs with the family or scuba diving deeper ledges offshore, the thrill of spotting a lobster tucked under a ledge and skillfully coaxing it out with a tickle stick is part of what makes this such a rewarding activity. Many families plan their vacations around lobster season. They enjoy long days on the water are often followed by beachside cookouts and fresh lobster tails on the grill.
Gear Up with the Right Boat
If you’re thinking about exploring lobster season in the Keys, having the right boat can make all the difference. At MacGregor Yachts’ Outboard Division, we help our clients find center consoles that are perfect for adventures like this. Whether you’re heading offshore or sticking close to shallow reef systems. If you’re in the market or just want to see what’s available, we’re always happy to help guide you. The Keys are best explored by water, and there’s no better time to do it than during lobster season.
The Heart of the Florida Keys Lifestyle
Florida Keys Lobster Season is more than just a sport, it’s a celebration of the unique coastal culture that defines the island chain. With the promise of a fresh catch and good memories, it’s one of the most unforgettable times of the year to be on the water in the Keys.
