Florida Keys Lobster charters

Florida Keys Lobstering, planning your 2026 trip

By February 2, 2017February 23rd, 2026Lobstering, Fishing news

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.

If you’re planning to dive this summer, consider booking a private Key West lobster charter to secure your preferred mini season dates.

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.

Capt. JAson Holding up one of many Lobster he caught during the key West lobster mini Season.

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

A Fishnfl Client diving for KeyWest Lobster

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

A picture of Florida Keys Lobstering, planning your 2026 trip with Fishn Fl.

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!

Capt. Jason putting clients on Keywest Lobster

 
 
 
 
 
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