Lobster season in Florida is one of the most exciting times of the year for divers across the state. Whether you're a seasoned pro or gearing up for your first dive,
knowing the season dates, legal limits, and gear requirements is essential to having a safe, productive, and legal lobster hunt.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the
2025 Florida lobster season, including key dates, regulations, equipment tips, and local diving advice.
Florida’s Two Lobster Seasons Explained
Florida offers two opportunities each year to legally harvest
spiny lobster (Panulirus argus) — the
Sport Season, often referred to as "Mini-Season," and the
Regular Season.
Sport Season (Mini-Season)
- Dates for 2025: July 30–31, 2025
- Duration: 2 days only
- Purpose: A special window for recreational divers to get a head start before commercial trapping begins
- Rules: Stricter bag limits and area-specific restrictions apply
Mini-Season is extremely popular and highly competitive. It’s also the most heavily enforced diving period of the year — so make sure you're prepared.
Regular Season
- Dates for 2025–2026: August 6, 2025 – March 31, 2026
- Duration: Nearly 8 months
- Availability: Open to both recreational and commercial harvesters
Regular season allows for more flexibility and less crowding but still requires divers to follow strict state regulations.
Legal Requirements to Catch Lobster in Florida
To harvest lobster in Florida, you must have:
- A valid
Florida Saltwater Fishing License
- A
Spiny Lobster Permit (added endorsement)
You can purchase both through the [Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) – https://myfwc.com/license/].
Keep your permit with you — enforcement is common during both seasons, especially in South Florida and the Florida Keys.
Florida Lobster Harvesting Rules and Regulations (2025)
Daily Bag Limits
- Mini-Season:
- 6 lobsters per person per day in Monroe County (Florida Keys)
- 12 lobsters per person per day in all other areas
- Regular Season:
- 6 lobsters per person per day statewide
Minimum Size Requirements
- Lobsters must have a
carapace length of at least 3 inches
- Measurement must be done
in the water, before bagging
Egg-Bearing Lobsters
- It is
illegal to harvest any lobster bearing eggs
- These must be
immediately released unharmed
Gear Restrictions
- No spears or hooks may be used to harvest lobsters
- Only
hands, nets, snares, or tickle sticks are allowed
- Dive flags must be used when diving or snorkeling
Full regulations can be found on the [FWC website – https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/lobster/].
Where to Dive During Florida Lobster Season
Florida’s coastal waters offer a wide range of diving locations for lobster hunting. Here are some diver favorites:
Florida Keys
- Most popular region for Mini-Season
- Watch for special local rules (Monroe County has unique limits and restrictions)
- Reef systems, bridges, and patch reefs are common hotspots
Southeast Florida (Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade)
- Large reefs and ledges offshore
- Heavily patrolled by FWC during the season
- Easily accessible by boat or charter dive operators
Treasure Coast (including Palm City)
- Known for its quieter spots and reef ledges
- Ideal for divers who want to avoid the Mini-Season chaos in the Keys
- Home to [Keystone Dive Products – https://www.keystonediveproducts.com], your local gear source
Gulf Coast
- Fewer divers, but still great for late-season dives
- Visibility can vary more than the Atlantic side
Pro Tips for a Successful Lobster Dive in 2025
1. Gear Up Early
Florida’s Mini-Season draws thousands of divers, and quality gear sells out fast. Be sure to prep in advance:
2. Dive with a Buddy
This is not only safer but allows you to spot more lobster and cover more ground. Establish clear communication signals before diving.
3. Know Your Limits
Both in terms of lobster count and dive skill. Don’t exceed your comfort zone or depth experience. Always surface with plenty of air and avoid overexertion.
4. Respect the Environment
Avoid breaking coral, damaging habitat, or harassing marine life. Responsible diving helps preserve these spots for future seasons.
5. Clean Your Gear After Every Dive
Saltwater and lobster debris can break down gear fast. Rinse everything in fresh water — especially your catch bag — to keep it in top shape all season.
FAQs About Florida Lobster Season
Do I need to measure lobsters before bagging them?
Yes. It is required by law to measure lobsters in the water using a lobster gauge
before placing them in your bag.
Can I use a spear or hook to catch lobster?
No. Florida law strictly prohibits the use of spears, hooks, or other impaling devices. Only legal methods include hands, tickle sticks, nets, and snares.
What’s the penalty for harvesting undersized or egg-bearing lobster?
Penalties can include
fines over $500 per violation,
confiscation of gear, and even
jail time for repeat offenders.
What’s the best bag to use for lobster diving?
We recommend a
one-way flap catch bag like the [Lobster Inn Bag – https://www.keystonediveproducts.com]. It prevents escapes and makes it easier to insert your catch quickly and securely, even while wearing gloves.
Are there different rules in the Keys?
Yes. Monroe County has
stricter bag limits and may impose additional rules for certain protected zones and artificial reef areas. Always check local regulations.
Stay Dive-Ready with Gear from Keystone Dive Products
Based in
Palm City, Florida, Keystone Dive Products is trusted by divers throughout the state for
durable, diver-designed gear. Our
Lobster Inn Bag features a patented one-way flap to secure your catch and outlast the season — no zippers, no Velcro, no hassle.
Whether you’re heading to the Keys for Mini-Season or diving closer to home, Keystone gear is designed for the unique challenges of Florida waters.
Call to Action: Don’t Wait for the Season — Gear Up Now
Lobster season is competitive. The right preparation and equipment can mean the difference between a full catch and an empty bag.
Order your catch bag today and dive into the season with confidence.
Shop the Lobster Inn Bag:
[https://www.keystonediveproducts.com]
Phone: (772) 341-2700
Email: info@keystonediveproducts.com
Serving Florida divers from Palm City to the Keys.
