Planning Your Lobster Trip: Florida Keys Lobster Season Guide
Dreaming of catching Florida spiny lobster in the Keys? Planning ahead is key to a safe, successful, and fun lobster adventure. Whether you’re coming for the mini-season or the regular lobster season, this guide covers everything you need to know — from gear to accommodations, boats, and expert tips.
When is Lobster Season in Florida?
Regular lobster season: August 6 – March 31
Mini-season: Last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday of July
For 2026, for example, the mini-season is July 29–30. The Florida Keys lobster season is a prime time to book a lobstering charter or plan your own trip with a boat.
Choosing Where to Stay in the Keys
The Keys stretch over 100 miles of US-1 from Key Largo to Key West. Your choice depends on your fishing goals:
Northern Keys (Key Largo – Islamorada): Ideal if you want to focus on lobster and Everglades fishing.
Middle Keys (Marathon, Islamorada): Offers a mix of reef, flats, and lobster fishing. Islamorada is perfect for all-around fishing experiences.
Lower Keys (Big Pine Key – Key West): Consistently more lobster, excellent reef fishing, and access to Key West nightlife.
Tips: Check for nearby marinas, grocery stores, and boat ramps.
Bringing Your Boat? Boat & Trailer Checklist
Nothing ruins a Keys trip like being stranded. Before heading south, review:
Trailer Maintenance
Inspect for rust, corrosion, and safety chains
Check axles, leaf springs, and bearings
Inspect tires and DOT numbers; replace if old
Pack spare tires, spare hub, tools, and ratchet straps
Boat Safety & Maintenance
Service your motor and check all fluids
Inspect bilge pump, float switch, and hydraulic steering
Check wiring for corrosion and battery voltage
Ensure all safety gear is onboard (life jackets, PLB, flares, whistle)
Consider a Navionics GPS chip for navigating Keys’ reefs and flats
Essential Gear for Lobstering
Whether you bring your own boat or book a lobstering charter, here’s what you’ll need:
Goggles, snorkel, and fins
Tickle stick (metal, bendable for big lobsters)
Lobster net
Lobster motel (tie to float and drag)
Rope/drag system for guiding divers
Goggle defogger
Optional items: gloves, waterproof bag, and markers for GPS spots.
Pro Tip: Focus on marking productive areas — lobsters move nightly, but hotspots can produce consistently year after year.
Booking a Lobstering Charter
If you don’t have a boat or prefer an expert guide:
Start booking early — guides fill up fast for mini-season and the opening week of regular season
A charter ensures safety, local knowledge, and maximizes your chance to catch lobster
Capt. Jason Dozier is available for mini-season through August 2026 for lobster and fishing charters in Key West
Other Fishing Opportunities in the Keys
Combine lobster with:
Reef fishing for snapper and grouper
Offshore fishing for larger species
Flats fishing for bonefish, permit, and sharks
Booking a lobster and fishing charter lets you enjoy the full sport season in the Keys.
Don’t wait — spots fill fast for mini-season and the opening weeks!
Website: www.fishnfl.com
Call: (813) 956-5357
