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| The Surface Interval |
| August 2005 - BUGS! |
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It’s that time of year again. Most Floridians know about
it. The majority of boaters, fisherman, and divers are
participants. Anyone living in the Florida Keys is
surrounded by it. Yes, it’s lobster season again.
The spiny lobster (“bug”) season opens in Florida on August
6th and runs through March 31st. Spiny lobster sport season
was July 27-28, 2005. Thousands of Floridians hit the water
in the first few weeks to catch these delicious creatures.
The depths vary greatly but many snorkelers find their prize
in a few feet of water. The Florida Keys is the most popular
lobster destination but they are also pretty common on the
Atlantic coast. The Fort Pierce area is known for massive
“bugs”. Spinys are far and few between in the Gulf but they
are out there. Most of the “bugs” I’ve found off our shore
have been oversized.
The most common way to catch the lobster is with a tickle
stick and net. Using this “tickle” stick to work the lobster
from its hole and catch him in a small hand net can be great
fun. Other divers just grab the lobsters but be careful not
to harm them until you know it’s a keeper. Snares are also
available from most dive shops. It’s definitely all about
your own preference.
There are as many law enforcement officers watching out
during these first few weeks as there are lobsters. Remember
the laws are in effect for good reason and no one wants a
ticket. Here are some laws you need to know, but make sure
to verify these with local authorities and find any
additional laws for your area.
- bag limit – 6 per person per day
- diving at night for lobster is permitted except in Monroe
county during sport season
- lobster must be of legal size before they are in
possession
- Egg-bearing lobster must be released unharmed. No
stripping of eggs from lobster. Eggs are yellow, brown, red,
or orange mass under tail.
- Current recreational saltwater fishing license with
crawfish stamp is required
- Don’t mess with commercial traps
- You must fly a legal dive flag, even if you’re just
snorkeling. Be respectful of other boats flags.
- All participants must have a lobster gauge while in the
water
- All lobster must be measured in the water and released if
undersize
- All lobster must remain whole while at sea.
- Lobster gauge should be 3” to measure head. Consult place
of purchase for demonstration for proper use.
Have fun and be safe.
Capt. Pete
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Capt. Pete's
Diving Outfitters, Fort Myers, FL, Email:
scubashop@captpetes.com |
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BUGS! |
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King Spider Crab claw
Pompano |
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