Tips for the Big Event:

Get your license at WildLifeLicense.com

• Bring your regulator, BC and cylinders in to get serviced. Allow at least 7 to 10 days from drop-off to pick-up.
• Check your dive computer’s battery. We can change batteries of most brands on the spot.
• Check your mask, fins and snorkel to make sure the straps, buckles and keepers are not broken or cracked.
• Check to see if the old wetsuit still fits.
• Make sure you have a safety sausage, a whistle, and a good first aid kit.
• Inspect your flag, float, line and reel.
• Stop by Lauderdale Diver to pick up a lobster gauge, tickle stick, catch bag, and lobstering gloves (you don’t want to ruin your neoprene pair).
• Don’t have your own boat? Call 954-467-2822 for dive charter options and reservations.
• Need to rent equipment? Call 954-467-2822 for reservations.
• Schedule a Scuba Review if it has been more than six months since the last time you went diving.

Rules & Regulations

Spiny Lobster Sport Season (MINI-SEASON)

• Season dates: July 28-29, 2010 (Last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday of July each year).
• Bag limits: 6 per person per day for Monroe County and Biscayne National Park, and 12 per person per day for the rest of Florida.
• Possession limit - on the water: equal to the daily bag limit
• Possession limit - off the water: equal to the daily bag limit on the first day, and double the daily bag limit on the second day.
• Possession limits are enforced on and off the water.
• Minimum size limit: must be larger than 3" carapace, measured in the water. A reminder that possession and use of a measuring device is required at all times, and night diving is prohibited in Monroe County (only during the sport season).
• License requirements: A recreational saltwater license and a crawfish permit are needed for harvest.

Regular Spiny Lobster SeasonSeason dates: Aug. 6 - March 31

Regardless of what species you are fishing for, bag limits are only for properly licensed individuals and those people exempt from license requirements who are actively harvesting. People harvesting may not exceed their individual bag limit and take someone else’s bag limit. That is, people (including children) who are not actively harvesting or are not properly licensed (if a license is required) may NOT be counted for purposes of bag limits.

Spiny Lobster Measurements

Spiny Lobster must have a minimum carapace length of greater than 3-inches and the measurement must take place in the water. The carapace is measured beginning at the forward edge between the rostral horns, excluding any soft tissue, and proceeding along the middle to the rear edge of the carapace.

The Day Before:

• Empty out your freezer/fridge to make room for your catch.
• Clean out your cooler.
• Buy water and snacks for the big day.
• Pack your scuba gear.
• Pack your lobstering gear.
• Review the rules and regulations.
• Pack your license.
• Have an emergency plan ready just in case.

The Big Day:

• Follow the rules and regulations – the fines hurt more than the spines!
• Do a pre-dive safety check.
• Watch your air and keep an eye on your buddy throughout the entire dive.
• Watch your buoyancy. Aim for neutral buoyancy while underwater and positive buoyancy when on the surface.
• Dive safely. Have fun.
• Feast well.