Spiny Lobster Fishing in Miami
Panulirus argus
Florida spiny lobster hide in reef ledges and holes, with only their long antennae showing. Divers and snorkelers catch them by hand with a net and tickle stick. Lobster season is a Florida tradition, and Miami’s reefs are close to shore.
Quick facts
Most legal lobster are just over the limit.
Large bugs live on deeper reefs.
Spiny lobster have no claws.
They hide by day and walk at night.
Reefs, ledges and rocks.
Where to catch them off Miami
Patch reefs
Shallow reefs for snorkelers.
Ledges
Deeper ledges for divers.
Rubble
Rocks and rubble.
Season in Miami
How to read this meter
- PPeak best time to catch
- FFair can catch
- OOff rarely caught
- CClosed season, no harvest
The two-day mini-season is the last Wednesday and Thursday of July. The regular season runs August 6 to March 31.
Key events
Best time and conditions
Opening days
The first weeks of the season are busiest.
Calm, clear water
Good visibility helps.
Techniques and baits
Tickle stick and net
Gently coaxing a lobster into a net.
Measuring in the water
Carapace must be measured before taking.
Snorkeling
Shallow reefs are great for beginners.
Diving
Deeper reefs for certified divers.
Top baits and lures
Florida regulations
Egg-bearing females must be released. On a Salty Fresh charter, your fishing license is included.
FWC: Spiny lobster rules · Last checked October 27, 2026
On the table
Excellent. Sweet tail meat, great grilled.
Which charter is best?
Lobster Diving
- $850 per trip
- 6 hours, 8:00 AM start
- Up to 6 guests
- Also targets Hogfish, Snapper and Grouper
Night Lobster Bully Netting
- $850 per trip
- 4 hours, 8:00 PM start
- Up to 6 guests
- Also targets
Spiny Lobster FAQ
When is lobster season in Miami?
Mini-season is the last Wednesday and Thursday of July. The regular season is August 6 to March 31.
How many lobster can I keep?
6 per person in the regular season and 12 in mini-season (6 in Biscayne National Park).
How do you measure a lobster?
The carapace must be over 3 inches, measured in the water.
Do I need to be a diver?
No. Snorkelers can catch lobster on shallow reefs.
Which charter is best for lobster?
Our Lobster trip.
Can I cancel my trip?
Free cancellation up to 3 days (72 hours) before your trip. This applies to every trip, including iguana hunts and snorkeling. To cancel, call Capt. Charles at (305) 972-5659 or email saltyfreshfishingcharters@gmail.com.