An Angler's Guide to Florida Lobster

A Florida fishing expert shares lobstering tips, tools and rules.

Most often captured around the southern tip of the state and down through the Keys, Florida spiny lobster have almost a cult following.

Known as bug hunting, collecting these crustaceans generates excitement, festivals and fine eating every year as their eight-month season kicks off in August (with a two day mini-season in July for recreational fishermen). Florida lobsters' low-fat, sweet, white meat is irresistible, making them as fun to consume as they are to catch. There are actually 12 species of lobster in Florida with the most abundant being the Caribbean spiny lobster.

Florida lobsters' low-fat, sweet, white meat is irresistible, making them as fun to consume as they are to catch.

The lobster's special status as a Florida resource means the industry is closely regulated to protect this important fishery. Worldwide demand for these amazing creatures continues to climb with approximately 3.4 million to 5.8 million pounds harvested each season. Most commercial fishermen use traps baited with dead meat or fish. It is illegal to tamper with these traps, so if you come across one, it's strongly recommended that you leave it alone.

Hunting lobster requires a saltwater recreation license and a crawfish permit. Only lobster with a main body (carapace) length of three inches may be collected. Florida lobstering does not allow for spearing or "gigging." Egg-bearing females cannot be collected and must be returned unharmed.

Most lobster hunters wear gloves to protect themselves from the protuding spines and use "tickle sticks" to lure the lobster from the cracks and crevices where they hide. Once tickled out of their holes, nets are uses for scooping up the lobster. All of the gear is easily found in tackle shops and sport sections of local stores. Hunting Florida lobster is an adventure for the whole family, ending with truly delicious results!