Lobster mini season is officially underway

JUPITER, Fla. - The two-day mini-season for lobster lovers is now officially underway across South Florida.

Divers are heading out to try to catch those spiny, tasty crustaceans.

Since the 48 hour mini season began at midnight, FWC and coastal patrols are out in full force, making sure divers are following all the rules and regulations.

Divers across the state are limited to 12 lobsters per day, except for the Keys where the cap is 6.

The mini season closes Thursday at midnight.

You need a saltwater license with a lobster permit to catch them.

Divers across the state need to be a little extra cautious this year because there's a new fish roaming around lobster hideouts.

Lionfish are not native and have been eating a ton of marine life.

They tend to stay under rocks and reefs, which is the same spots lobsters are known to frequent.

Typically, they won't bother divers, but if a hand gets caught on the spines of lionfish it can give a nasty sting.

If you see lionfish, FWC is asking you to call in and report where you saw it.

The commercial season starts August 6th.