How to Catch Florida Spiny Lobster & Cook It Island Style
When it comes to the underwater treasures of the Florida Keys, the Florida spiny lobster is a
prize that’s as fun to hunt as it is delicious to eat. With their long antennae and armored
bodies, these warm-water lobsters are a seasonal favorite for divers and snorkelers
alike—especially around Marathon, a top spot for lobster hunting adventures.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- Why spiny lobster are so unique
- The best time and places to catch them
- What gear and strategies to use
- How to cook them island-style
- Where to stay for the ultimate lobster-catching experience
What Makes Florida Spiny Lobster Special?
Unlike their cold-water cousins, spiny lobsters have no claws—they use their long antennae
and speed to escape predators. Their prized meat is in the tail, known for being tender,
sweet, and perfect for grilling or broiling.
Spiny lobsters are an eco-friendly seafood option and are highly sustainable when
harvested responsibly. The thrill of the hunt is half the fun—plus, there’s no better feeling
than grilling your fresh catch later that night.
When to Catch Spiny Lobster
The regular Florida lobster season runs from August 6 through March 31 every year.
During this time, you can dive or snorkel for lobster throughout the Florida Keys, including
Marathon’s reef-rich waters.
- Best months: August to October for warmer waters and visibility
- Time of day: Early morning or late afternoon when lobster are more active
Where to Catch Lobster in Marathon
Spiny lobster love hiding under rocks, ledges, coral heads, and debris in water ranging from
3 to 30 feet deep.
Top lobster hunting spots in Marathon include:
- Sombrero Reef – Great visibility and coral structure
- Coffins Patch – Known for shallow ledges and easy diving
- Delta Shoal – Less crowded, productive waters
- Patch reefs near Boot Key – Calm, accessible from shore or boat
Use your mask to scan the bottom for twitching antennae—lobsters like to back into holes
and hide.
Gear & Tactics for Catching Lobster
Essential gear:
- Mask, snorkel, fins
- Gloves (for protection!)
- Lobster tickle stick
- Lobster net
- Mesh catch bag
- Lobster measuring gauge
How to catch them: - Approach slowly and calmly
- Use your tickle stick to coax lobster out of their hole
- Net from behind and quickly move them to your bag
- Always measure in the water—carapace must be 3 inches or more
Bonus Method : Bully Netting
Bully netting is a local favorite for catching lobster at night from a boat in shallow waters
(typically less than 6 feet deep). Here’s how it works:
- Go out after dark in a quiet, slow-moving flats boat equipped with a bright spotlight or
headlamp. - Shine the light into the water and look for the reflective eyes of lobsters “walking” along
the sandy bottom. - Use a long-handled bully net with a downward-facing hoop to trap the lobster quickly
before it darts away. - Wear polarized glasses if you’re close to sunset or using ambient lighting to improve
visibility. - Work silently and have a partner on the bow ready to net as you steer the boat slowly from
the stern.
Bully netting is legal and effective during regular lobster season and adds an extra dose of
fun and challenge to your catch!
Bully netting is especially popular in the Florida Keys and adds an extra thrill to lobster
season!
Rules & Regulations
(Know Before You Go!)
- Season dates: August 6 – March 31 (Regular Season)
- Daily limit: 6 lobsters per person
- Minimum size: Carapace must be over 3″
- No egg-bearing females may be harvested
- Lobster license and Saltwater Fishing License are required
- Dive flag must be used when in the water
Always check for the latest updates from FWC: https://myfwc.com
Stay in Style: Happy in the Keys Vacation Homes
There’s no better way to end a day of diving than grilling lobster poolside in your own
private paradise. HappyintheKeys Luxury Vacation Residences are tailor-made for your
Florida Keys fishing and diving adventure.
Guests enjoy:
- Private boat ramps and oversized docks
- Ice machines, bait freezers, and lobster cleaning stations
- Spacious, stylish homes with designer kitchens
- Proximity to Marathon’s best reefs and dive spots
Book your Happy in the Keys Experience
www.happyinthekeys.com
