The 2026 Ultimate Florida Keys Lobster Season Guide

As July draws to a close here in the Florida Keys, many might feel the summer winding down. But for locals and visitors alike, the end of July doesn’t signal an end; it marks the beginning of what many consider a Florida National Holiday: mini lobster season.  

I remember when I was in my late 20s, I worked as a production supervisor for a company that made whey protein for the pharmaceutical world. I was incredibly unhappy with my life. My fishing buddy, Al, and I would often meet at a bar after work, drink beer, and complain about how shitty our jobs were. After a few drinks, the conversation would inevitably turn to: “Let’s trailer the boat to the Keys and go fishing!” We made phone calls to resorts – no social media at that time.

Every resort I called was booked solid for something called “lobster season,” and honestly, I had no clue what it was. We were all set to go, but of course, I backed out because of “no cash flow.”

That one conversation I had with that resort owner that day just sat in my mind. Funny how life works. Now, years later, I know exactly why those resorts were booked. This  two-day event kicks off the annual spiny lobster harvest, allowing recreational enthusiasts a thrilling head start before the main commercial season officially opens on August 6th.

Why the Florida Keys Are the Best for Lobstering

The Florida Keys are widely considered the best region in the state for spiny lobster. The waters are warm, clear, and full of reefs, ledges, and grass beds that lobsters call home. Add in the relaxed island atmosphere, and you’ve got the ultimate setting for mini lobster season.

Beyond the catch, mini lobster season is also a vital economic driver for the Keys. The influx of thousands of visitors each year provides a tremendous boost to local businesses – from hotels and restaurants to rental boat companies, charter fishing operations, bait shops, and dive centers. It’s an awesome sight to see so many people coming into the Florida Keys, directly supporting our  community and local economy.

When is Mini Lobster Season 2025?

So, what exactly is mini lobster season? It always goes down on the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday of July. In 2025, that means we’re kicking off on July 30 and 31.

For those 48 hours, recreational divers and snorkelers get to chase down spiny lobster, but you gotta play by the rules set by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Now, the main season, that kicks off in August and runs through March, is a different beast.

Essential Florida Lobster Season 2025 Regulations

Here’s a quick-reference guide to the most important rules you need to know for the upcoming lobster season. While I’ve put together this summary to make it easy, please always refer to the official Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website for the most current and complete regulations. They are the authoritative source, and rules can be updated.

Source for Official Regulations: MyFWC.com/Marine/Spiny Lobster

Category	Mini Lobster Season (Sport Season)	Regular Lobster Season
Dates	July 30, 2025 (12:01 a.m.) – July 31, 2025 (11:59 p.m.)	August 6, 2025 (12:01 a.m.) – March 31, 2026 (11:59 p.m.)
Licensing	Valid Florida Saltwater Fishing License with a Spiny Lobster Permit required for all recreational harvesters.	Valid Florida Saltwater Fishing License with a Spiny Lobster Permit required for all recreational harvesters.
Daily Bag Limit	Monroe County (Florida Keys) & Biscayne National Park: 6 lobsters per person, per day.	Statewide: 6 lobsters per person, per day.
	Rest of Florida: 12 lobsters per person, per day.
Possession Limit	On Water: Equal to daily bag limit.Your possession limit ashore is equal to the daily bag limit. So, if you’re in the Keys, you can have 6 lobsters	On Water: Equal to daily bag limit.Your possession limit ashore is equal to the daily bag limit. So, if you’re in the Keys, you can have 6 lobsters.
	Off Water (July 30): Daily bag limit.Your possession limit ashore is equal to the daily bag limit. So, if you’re in the Keys, you can have 6 lobsters.	Off Water: Equal to daily bag limit.Your possession limit ashore is equal to the daily bag limit. So, if you’re in the Keys, you can have 6 lobsters.
	Off Water (July 31): Double the daily bag limit.This is where it changes You can possess double the daily bag limit off the water. This means if you’re in the Keys, you can legally have 12 lobsters ashore (reflecting two days’ worth of your daily limit). These possession limits are strictly enforced both on and off the water.
Minimum Size	Carapace (head shell) must be larger than 3 inches.	Carapace (head shell) must be larger than 3 inches.
Measurement Rule	Mandatory to measure in the water before removing lobster.	Mandatory to measure in the water before removing lobster.
Lobster Condition	Must remain whole (tail attached to body) at sea.	Must remain whole (tail attached to body) at sea.
	Tails can only be separated on land; must be > 5-1/2 inches if separated.	Tails can only be separated on land; must be > 5-1/2 inches if separated.
Prohibited Harvest	Egg-bearing females, undersized lobsters, or those taken with illegal gear (spears, hooks, traps).	Egg-bearing females, undersized lobsters, or those taken with illegal gear (spears, hooks, traps).

Florida Keys Lobster Charters- Capt. Ryan’s Personal Lobster Charter Captain Recommendation 

Bully Netting: A Unique Way to Catch Lobster!

While many folks chase lobsters by diving, there’s a fantastic, equally exciting method called bully netting. Simply put, it’s a way to catch lobsters at night without ever getting in the water! You use a powerful light to spot lobsters as they “walk” and feed on the shallow grass flats, and then skillfully scoop them up with a specialized hoop net.

Why is Bully Netting Awesome and Family-Friendly?

• No Diving Required: This is the biggest perk! You stay dry on the boat, making it accessible for everyone, including kids, seniors, or anyone not keen on snorkeling or scuba diving.
• Action-Packed Nights: Lobsters are nocturnal, so they’re out and about after dark. This means you’re actively searching and scooping, often leading to fast-paced, exciting action.
• Great for All Ages: Since you’re on the boat, it’s a fantastic way for the whole family to participate. Kids especially love spotting the lobsters with the lights and being part of the catch!
• Unique Experience: It’s a completely different kind of adventure under the stars, offering a unique perspective of the Keys’ marine life at night.

Now, a quick note from me: we don’t actually offer lobster fishing charters ourselves. But when it comes to night-time bully netting, I know the best in the business: Captain Chris Simmons. You know, a lot of these booking agencies out there just care about making a buck from referrals, and they often don’t even know the captains they’re sending you to.

I’m different. When I refer someone, it’s because they’re genuinely good at what they do.

I first met Chris when he approached me as I was cleaning fish after a charter, back when he was still in high school.

Over the years, I’ve watched with immense respect as he’s built a truly solid and reputable business right here in the Keys.

What makes Captain Chris stand out, like many other exceptional fishing guides down here, is his lifelong dedication to learning our fisheries and the nuances of the charter business. He represents the kind of genuine expertise that defines the best in our field. I only refer captains who possess deep knowledge of fishing and consistently provide outstanding service to their clients, and Captain Chris Simmons is unquestionably one of those individuals. If you’re seeking an unforgettable night of bully netting, he is your premier expert.

If you’re eager to experience an unforgettable night of bully netting with the best in the business, reach out to Captain Chris Simmons directly at 954-559-0803.  He’s incredibly popular, especially around mini-season, so we highly recommend calling or texting him well in advance to secure your spot. Don’t wait – his calendar fills up fast. Tell him Capt. Ryan sent you.

Florida Keys Lobster Dive Flag & Boating Safety

Out on the water, especially during mini-season, safety is paramount. That means knowing and following the rules for dive flags and general boating safety. These aren’t just suggestions; they’re critical for protecting yourself, your fellow divers, and all other boaters. FWC officers will be out there, so make sure you’re squared away.

• Dive Flag: When divers or snorkelers are in the water, a red-and-white dive flag must be displayed. Boaters must slow to idle speed when within 300 feet of a dive flag in open water, or 100 feet in a channel (divers should stay within 100 feet of their flag in a channel).
• Boat Safety Gear: Ensure your vessel has all required safety equipment and is in good working order, as FWC officers will conduct inspections.

Florida Keys Lobster Diving-General Tips for Staying Legal

Beyond the specific dates and bag limits, there are some really important general guidelines that all of us need to follow to ensure a fun, safe, and sustainable mini lobster season. These aren’t just about avoiding a ticket; they’re about being a good steward of our incredible Florida Keys environment and respecting other people out on the water.

• Know Before You Go: Always consult the official FWC website (MyFWC.com) for the most current and detailed regulations before your trip, as rules can be updated.
• No Discarding Carcasses: It is prohibited to discard lobster or fish carcasses in Keys canals, as this can negatively impact the ecosystem.
• Near Shoreline Rule: During both the two-day mini-season and the regular lobster season (Aug. 6, 2025 – March 31, 2026), NO snorkeling or diving is allowed within 300 feet of residential or commercial shoreline. This includes canals and any public or private marinas. This rule aims to prevent conflicts with property owners and ensure safety in high-traffic areas.

Florida Keys Lobster Diving Prohibited Areas & Times

Alright, this part is just as important as knowing where to find ’em. To stay safe and legal, you absolutely have to know the areas and times where lobster diving is off-limits. The FWC has these rules in place for a reason – protecting the resource and ensuring everyone’s safety. Don’t risk a hefty fine or worse; take a close look at these restricted zones.

• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Closed to lobster harvest during mini-season.
• Everglades National Park & Dry Tortugas National Park: Closed to lobster harvest at all times.
• Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS) No-Take Areas: Harvest is prohibited in Sanctuary Preservation Areas (SPAs), Ecological Reserves, and other marked no-take zones. These are typically marked by yellow buoys. Always check updated FKNMS regulations and charts.
• Biscayne Bay/Card Sound Lobster Sanctuary: Closed to lobster harvest.
• Night Diving (Monroe County): Night diving for lobster (defined as one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise) is prohibited during the two-day mini-season in Monroe County (the Florida Keys). Night diving IS allowed during the regular season.
• Artificial Habitat: Placing artificial habitat or harvesting lobster from artificial habitat is prohibited in state waters.

Florida Keys Lobster Diving-Bridge Diving and Near Shoreline Restrictions in Monroe County (Florida Keys)

Bridge Diving: A Word of Caution, Especially at Tavernier Creek Bridge

Now, I know some folks might be tempted to try their luck under the bridges – you hear stories, and sometimes lobsters do hang out around pilings.

But let me be absolutely clear: diving directly under or immediately next to active bridges in the Florida Keys, including a spot like the Tavernier Creek Bridge, is generally NOT advisable. This isn’t just about what’s legal; it’s about significant safety hazards that can turn a fun day into a nightmare.

Specifically, when you talk about the Tavernier Creek Bridge:

• This bridge crosses a very active navigation channel. What does that mean? Lots of boats, all the time.
• Remember that “Near Shoreline Rule” we just talked about? The 300-foot no-diving zone from commercial or residential shoreline/marinas applies here. While the bridge itself isn’t “shoreline,” the approach areas and surrounding waters often fall under this restriction.

The Best Lobster Fishing Bridge Guide

Notable Florida Keys Bridges by Mile Marker

Important Disclaimer: This table provides general information and mile markers for various bridges in the Florida Keys. Diving directly under or immediately adjacent to active bridges for lobster is generally NOT advised and often has legal restrictions or significant safety hazards due to heavy boat traffic, strong currents, and the “No Diving within 300 feet of residential/commercial shoreline” rule. Always prioritize your safety and consult FWC regulations and local charts before planning any activity near these structures.

Source for Official Regulations: MyFWC.com/Marine/Spiny Lobster

Mile Marker (MM)	Bridge Name (or Area)	Notes & Lobster Considerations
91.0	Tavernier Creek Bridge	HIGH CAUTION for Lobstering. Spans an extremely active navigation channel. Diving directly under or immediately adjacent is strongly discouraged due to heavy boat traffic, very strong currents, and application of the 300-ft shoreline rule to nearby access/marina areas.
85.5	Snake Creek Draw Bridge	Generally considered a difficult/unsafe fishing area due to constant drawbridge operation and traffic. Not suitable for lobstering due to safety.
84.0	Whale Harbor Bridge	High traffic area. Not recommended for lobstering.
79.1	Tea Table Channel Bridge	Can be fished from land in nearby areas. Diving directly under is generally not advised due to safety concerns and regulations.
77.1	Lignumvitae Bridge	Can be fished from land in nearby areas. Diving directly under is generally not advised due to safety concerns and regulations.
72.8	Channel 2 Bridge (Lower Matecumbe)	Known for fishing platforms. While baitfish may gather here, diving directly under for lobster carries significant risk due to boat traffic and current.
71.4	Channel 5 Bridge (Lower Matecumbe)	Has parking at the south end. Similar to Channel 2, diving directly under for lobster is not recommended due to safety and regulations.
65.8	Long Key Bridge	Longest bridge in the Middle Keys. Has fishing platforms (Old Long Key Bridge). Diving for lobster directly under the active bridge is strongly discouraged due to extreme currents and boat traffic. The old bridge sections that serve as fishing piers are for fishing from them, not diving under.
47.0 – 40.0	Seven Mile Bridge	Extreme caution. One of the longest bridges in the world. The active bridge is a major navigation channel. Diving under this bridge for lobster is highly dangerous and largely prohibited due to immense currents, heavy boat traffic, and vast open water exposure. The Old Seven Mile Bridge is a historic landmark; check specific access and use rules.
39.0	Ohio-Missouri Channel Bridge	Historically had fishing access but sections have been closed off. Not a reliable or safe lobstering dive location.
30.2	Bogie Channel Bridge (No Name Key)	Old wooden fishing bridge, access for fishing from land in nearby areas. Diving for lobster under this bridge should be avoided due to specific local regulations and safety considerations, especially considering its proximity to residential areas and potentially shallow, silty bottoms where visibility might be poor.
26.0	Niles Channel Bridge	Sections have been shut down or are under reconstruction. Diving for lobster here is likely restricted or unsafe.
9.7	Rockland Channel Bridge	Not typically recommended for lobstering due to safety and presence of residential areas.
Various	Smaller Channel Bridges	Throughout the Keys, there are numerous smaller bridges. Always apply the 300-foot shoreline rule, be aware of currents and boat traffic, and prioritize safety. Many small channels are unsuitable or prohibited for diving due to tight spaces, poor visibility, and direct proximity to homes/marinas.

The Safety Concerns are Paramount:

• Heavy Boat Traffic: Keys bridges span incredibly busy channels. Diving here, especially during a high-traffic time like mini-season, puts you at extreme risk from passing vessels. Even with a dive flag, boaters might not see you or have time to react.
• Strong Currents: Channels under bridges are often choke points for water flow. Powerful, unpredictable currents can easily sweep you away or make controlling your position impossible. Tavernier Creek, in particular, is known for its strong currents.
• Commercial Trap Proximity: You’ll find commercial lobster traps near bridges. Interfering with them (or getting tangled in their lines) is illegal and dangerous.
• Structural Hazards: Underwater, bridge structures can hide all sorts of dangers: rebar, old fishing line, debris – all potential entanglement hazards.
• Night Diving Prohibition (Mini-Season): As we noted earlier, night diving is prohibited during mini-season in Monroe County. This means even if you thought lobsters were more active at night under bridges, you can’t target them then during the two-day mini-season.

The Bottom Line: For your own safety and to avoid legal trouble, I strongly recommend that you avoid diving directly under or very close to active bridges in the Florida Keys for lobster. Stick to the reefs, wrecks, and other designated lobster habitats that are clearly safer and legally permitted for diving.

Tavernier Creek Marina-Essential Gear for Your Lobster Dive

To have a successful and legal Florida Keys lobster hunt, you’ll need a few key pieces of gear in addition to your basic dive or snorkel setup. This equipment is designed to help you safely locate, measure, and secure your catch, all while adhering to FWC regulations.

Here’s what every lobster diver should have:

• Tickle Stick: This is a thin, usually fiberglass or aluminum rod used to gently coax lobsters out from under ledges and rocks. They often come with a small bend at the end.
• Lobster Net (or Snare): Once you’ve tickled a lobster out, you’ll need a net to scoop it up quickly. A good lobster net is lightweight and designed for quick maneuvering underwater. Some prefer a snare, which uses a loop to gently secure the lobster.
• Gloves: Spiny lobsters have sharp spines, so a sturdy pair of gloves (often rubber-coated knit gloves) is absolutely essential to protect your hands when handling them.
• Lobster Measuring Gauge: This is a non-negotiable legal requirement. You must measure every lobster in the water before you put it in your bag. An inexpensive aluminum or plastic gauge (like those widely available for just a few dollars) is perfect for this. It’ll have the precise 3-inch measurement needed for the carapace.
• Mesh Bag (Keeper Bag): Once you’ve caught and measured a legal-sized lobster, you’ll need a mesh bag to hold your catch securely while you continue your dive. These bags typically have a sturdy closure to prevent escape.
• Dive Flag & Float: As mentioned in our safety section, a proper red-and-white dive flag with a stiffener and a float is required when you have divers in the water. This signals your presence to other boaters.

Where to Get Your Supplies:

The great news is, you can often pick up a convenient kit that includes many of these items! Danco Deluxe Lobster Kits are available for sale right at Tavernier Creek Marina’s bait and tackle shop. These kits are fantastic for getting started, often including a tickle stick, net, gloves, a mesh bag, and that all-important measuring gauge.

So, for ultimate convenience, if you’re in the Upper Keys, just stop by Tavernier Creek Marina! Their well-stocked shop has all the essential lobster gear you’ll need, including those Danco kits, inexpensive gauges, dive flags, and everything else to get you geared up for a successful day of lobstering.

 

Book Your Mini Lobster Season Adventure Today

 If you prefer to guide your own trip, the best boat rental company for lobster fishing in the Upper Florida Keys is Anchors Away Boat Rentals. Make sure to read all about Anchors Away Boat Rentals by clicking here. They are best in the Upper Keys. 

They are widely regarded as the top choice due to their:

• Local Ownership and Expertise: As a family-run business with over 20 years of experience, they provide invaluable local knowledge, guiding you to the best lobster spots in Tavernier, Islamorada, and South Key Largo.
• Modern Equipment: Their fleet of over 30 meticulously maintained boats is equipped with cutting-edge Garmin touchscreen GPS systems, pre-programmed with routes to popular destinations, ensuring safe and stress-free navigation even in the Keys’ tricky shallow waters.
• Exceptional Service: They prioritize customer safety and satisfaction, offering thorough safety briefings, well-maintained Yamaha-powered boats known for reliability and fuel efficiency, and a team always ready to assist.
• Convenient Location: With a free boat slip at Tavernier Creek Marina, you get direct and easy ocean and bay access, plus on-site bait, tackle, and fuel.Plus, Tavernier Creek Marina, where Anchors Away is located, has all the essential lobster gear you’ll need, from tickle sticks and nets to gloves and measuring gauges!

Book your adventure  Anchors Away Boat Rentals and get ready to bag your limit this mini season.

Conclusion

As you plan your trip down to the Florida Keys for the mini-season, don’t forget that we’re here to help you get on the water for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re chasing lobsters or just want to explore the awesome fishing opportunities in the Florida Keys, book a fishing trip with Good Karma Sportfishing while you’re down here chasing lobsters. We’d love to share our passion and put you on some fish to go with that lobster.