FLORIDA — Florida’s 2025 spiny lobster season is set to open with the two-day recreational sport season July 30–31, followed by the regular commercial and recreational season running August 6 through March 31, 2026, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has announced.
The FWC reminds lobster hunters to review bag and size limits, harvest locations, and other regulations at MyFWC.com/Marine under the “Lobster” section. Those heading to the Keys can find additional resources at the Monroe County Tourist Development Council website, KeysLobsterSeason.com.
Registered Lionfish Challenge participants who earn the 2025 Lionfish Challenge Coin can harvest one extra lobster each day of the sport season. Recreational divers must report at least 25 lionfish, while commercial harvesters must report at least 50 pounds to qualify. Participants must have the physical 2025 coin in hand to take the extra lobster.
All lobsterers are urged to secure the proper recreational license and spiny lobster permit at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com. Regulations can also be checked on the Fish Rules app at FishRulesApp.com.
The FWC encourages bully netters to aim lights toward the water rather than homes and to keep noise down when near shorelines. Boaters and divers are also reminded to show care around corals and marine life.
FWC has launched the Florida Coral Crew initiative to engage lobsterers in helping combat stony coral tissue loss disease.
Safety remains a priority during lobster season. Divers should wear life jackets when underway, avoid drinking while boating, and remain within 300 feet of a divers-down flag in open water (100 feet near inlets and channels). Boat operators must slow to idle speed when inside those distances.
For additional boating regulation information, visit MyFWC.com/Boating.
