WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Florida's highly anticipated spiny lobster sport season returns next week, spanning July 29-30.
The mini season offers recreational divers and snorkelers a two-day opportunity to harvest these prized crustaceans.
Here's everything you need to know about regulations, bag limits and prohibited areas:
When is Florida Lobster Sport Season 2026?
The Florida spiny lobster sport season 2026 runs Wednesday, July 29 through Thursday, July 30. This annual event occurs on the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday of July each year, welcoming both Florida residents and non-residents.
Daily Bag Limits and Possession Rules
Daily Bag Limits by Location:
- Monroe County and Biscayne National Park: 6 lobsters per person per day
- Rest of Florida waters: 12 lobsters per person per day
Possession Limits Explained:
- On the water: Equal to daily bag limit
- Off the water July 29: Equal to daily bag limit (6 or 12 depending on location)
- Off the water July 30: Double the daily bag limit (12 or 24 depending on location)
Important: Possession limits are strictly enforced both on and off the water throughout the sport season.
Size Requirements and Measuring Rules
All harvested spiny lobsters must meet Florida's minimum size requirement:
- Carapace length: Must exceed 3 inches when measured in water
- Measuring device required: Possession and use of an approved measuring device is mandatory at all times
- Where to measure: All measurements must be taken while the lobster is still in the water
Night Diving Restrictions
Night diving is prohibited in Monroe County during sport season only. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) defines diving as swimming at or below the water surface. This restriction applies exclusively to Monroe County waters during the July 29-30 sport season.
Prohibited Harvesting Areas
Temporary Closures (Sport Season Only):
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Year-Round Prohibited Areas:
- Everglades National Park
- Dry Tortugas National Park
- Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary no-take zones
- Biscayne Bay/Card Sound Lobster Sanctuary
- Five Coral Reef Protection Areas in Biscayne National Park
Planning Your Lobster Diving Trip
The 2026 Florida lobster mini-season attracts thousands of recreational harvesters to popular diving destinations including:
- Florida Keys (outside prohibited areas)
- Miami-Dade County waters
- Broward County reefs
- Palm Beach County diving spots
Essential Gear Checklist:
- Valid Florida saltwater fishing license
- Spiny lobster permit (if required)
- Approved measuring gauge
- Dive flag and proper safety equipment
- Cooler with ice for proper storage
Economic Impact and Conservation
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, spiny lobster mini season generates significant economic activity for coastal communities while supporting conservation efforts. The strict regulations, including size limits and seasonal restrictions, help maintain healthy lobster populations for both recreational and commercial harvesting.
This story has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
