Everything You Need to Know About Lobster Season in the Florida Keys

If you’ve ever been to the Florida Keys in late July or August, you’ve probably heard the buzz around lobster season. It’s one of the most anticipated times of the year for locals and visitors alike — when the waters fill with divers and snorkelers chasing Florida’s famous spiny lobster. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or thinking about trying it for the first time, here’s what you need to know before you head out.

‍

What Month is Lobster Season in Florida?

Florida actually has two lobster seasons:

Mini-Season (also called Sport Season): Two days in late July, when recreational divers and snorkelers get first crack before commercial traps go in the water. In 2025, mini-season will be July 30–31.
Regular Season: Runs from August 6 through March 31 each year.

Many lobster lovers plan their vacations around mini-season — it’s a short window, but the excitement (and the catch) can be worth it.

‍

Will There Be a Florida Resident Lobster Season in 2025?

No — there’s no separate “residents only” lobster season in Florida. Both residents and visitors follow the same statewide rules for mini-season and regular season. However, having a local’s knowledge of spots and tides definitely helps, so teaming up with someone who knows the area is never a bad idea.

‍

Is Lobster Season Open in the Florida Keys?

Yes — the Florida Keys participate in both mini-season and regular season, but with extra rules to protect our waters. Some of the most important include:

Daily Bag Limit: 6 lobsters per person per day (during both mini and regular season).
Size Limit: Carapace must be more than 3 inches; measure in the water before harvesting.
No spearfishing for lobster in Monroe County. Only hand nets and bully nets are allowed.
Know Your Zones: Certain protected areas, like the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary’s no-take zones, are completely off-limits.

You’ll want to review the full set of FWC rules before you head out, especially if you’re new to lobstering in the Keys.

‍

Which Florida Key is the Best for Lobstering?

Islamorada is hard to beat. Known as the Sportfishing Capital of the World, it also has fantastic lobster grounds within easy reach by boat. You can work the shallow bayside waters with a bully net or head oceanside to reef edges and ledges where lobsters like to hide.

And if you’re staying with us at Kon Tiki Resort, you’ll have another big advantage — our complimentary dockage makes it easy to keep your boat ready for early morning runs or late afternoon bully netting trips.

‍

Tips for a Successful Lobster Trip

Scout early: Mini-season spots can get crowded; it pays to know where you’re going ahead of time.
Bring the right gear: Mask, snorkel, fins, gloves, measuring gauge, and a tickle stick or loop.
Stay safe: Be mindful of boating traffic, especially during mini-season. Always use a diver-down flag.
Respect the rules: Bag and size limits are enforced, and fines can be hefty.

‍

Stay and Lobster Like a Local

Lobster season in the Florida Keys is as much about the adventure as it is about the catch. Whether you’re here for the fast-paced excitement of mini-season or the longer, laid-back regular season, staying in Islamorada puts you in the heart of the action.

At Kon Tiki Resort, you can relax in a private cottage right on the bay, launch your boat from our ramp, and keep it in the water all week — ready to chase lobsters whenever the tide is right.

‍

Book your stay now and make your next Florida Keys trip a lobster season to remember.