Florida's spiny lobster mini season kicked off this week, drawing thousands of divers and boaters to South Florida reefs for the beloved two-day recreational harvest. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers patrolled local waters throughout the first full day, checking catches at the dock and on the water to make sure participants played by the rules.
The daily bag limit is 12 spiny lobsters per licensed harvester, and every lobster must have a carapace length greater than 3 inches — measured while the animal is still in the water. Harvesters are required to carry a measuring device at all times. Lobsters must also be taken by hand or with a tickle stick; spears, hooks, or any tool capable of puncturing or crushing the shell are prohibited under state law.
FWC Officer Tyson Matthews demonstrated the size check at the dock, flagging an undersized lobster from one group's haul. Because the animal was still alive, it was returned to the water and the group received a warning. Matthews noted that harvesting undersized, out-of-season, or egg-bearing lobsters is a second-degree misdemeanor that can result in fines depending on the circumstances.
Safety on the water was equally high on officers' radar. Florida law requires divers-down flags to be fully extended and visible at all times — at least 12 by 12 inches when displayed from the water, and at least 20 by 24 inches when flown from a vessel at its highest point. FWC also reminded boaters to stay alert, particularly after dark, and warned that K-9 units trained to detect hidden catch are deployed during mini season to deter anyone tempted to exceed the limit.
Mini season wraps up Thursday night, with the regular spiny lobster season set to open August 6. Reporting by CBS12.
