There are two Florida Lobster Seasons, the 2 day mini season and the 8 month regular lobster season. The mini lobster season is always the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday in July. This year the mini season falls on July 24th and 25th.
Mini Lobster Season July 24th-25th, 2024
The State of Florida years ago created a short sportsman season to allow recreational users to catch lobsters prior to traps being deployed and commercial season beginning. This season became known to divers and snorkelers all over the world as “Mini Lobster Season”. Over the years Mini Lobster Season has been modified several times over the years to account for changes in lobster stock assessments. The season lasts 48 hours after which it closes and the regular lobster season opens August 6th - March 31st
South Florida Advantage
In the Florida Keys (Monroe County) the limit per person per day is (6) as opposed to South Florida which is (12) per person per day. South Florida Reefs are not as crowded as the Keys and the hotels do not raise their rates for “Mini Lobster Season”.
Gear you will need:
- Mask, fins, snorkel (or your dive gear)
- Tickle stick & net or Lobster Looper
- Lobster gauge
- Gloves
- Catch bag*Remember to put your name on your gear
- Fishing License & Lobster Stamp