Florida’s 2026 spiny lobster mini season is here. The two-day sport season runs July 29-30, with the regular season beginning Aug. 6 and running through March 31, 2027.
Before heading out, harvesters must have a valid Florida saltwater fishing license, a spiny lobster permit, and a working knowledge of current harvest regulations.
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Sport season limits vary by location
Bag limits during the two-day sport season depend on where harvesters are diving. In Monroe County and Biscayne National Park waters, recreational harvesters may take up to six lobsters per person per day.
In all other Florida waters, the daily limit increases to 12 lobsters per person per day.
Know the rules before you dive
All harvesters must follow specific guidelines regardless of location. Lobsters must have a carapace length greater than three inches, measured in the water, and a measuring device must be carried at all times.
Egg-bearing female lobsters cannot be harvested, and lobsters must remain whole — separating tails from the body is prohibited. Devices that puncture, penetrate or crush the lobster shell are also unlawful.
Bag limits apply only to properly licensed individuals — or those exempt from licensing — who are actively harvesting. Non-harvesters cannot be counted toward another person’s limit.
A note for bully netters
Harvesters using bully nets are asked to be respectful of waterfront residents. Keep lights directed toward the water, avoid shining them at homes or people, and minimize noise whenever possible.
Safety first on the water
Safety is a priority for every trip. Boaters should wear a life jacket while underway, never operate a vessel under the influence of alcohol, and always follow divers-down flag regulations.
Divers must remain within 300 feet of a properly displayed flag in open water and within 100 feet when diving near an inlet or navigation channel. Boaters approaching a divers-down flag must slow to idle speed within those same distances.
More information on boating regulations is available at MyFWC.com/Boating under “Boating Regulations” and “Divers-down Warning Devices.”
Where to get your license
Licenses and spiny lobster permits are available at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com. For full spiny lobster regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Fishing and navigate to “Saltwater Fishing,” then “Recreational Regulations,” then “Crabs, Lobster and other Shellfish,” then “Lobster.”