Want to hunt lobster in the Florida Keys? The regular lobster season runs from August 6, 2026, to March 31, 2027. The two-day mini season was July 29 and 30. But before you get in the water, you need to know the local rules and where you can legally hunt.
Don't have a boat or lobster gear? No problem. At Forever Young Charter Company, we offer private lobster hunting trips in Key West. You get a private boat, an in-water lobster guide, and the equipment needed for the trip.
Florida has two parts to its spiny lobster season. The sports season is a short two-day event. In 2026, it was held on July 29 and 30. The regular season opened on August 6 and runs through March 31, 2027.
Mini season can get very busy. FWC says these are some of the busiest boating days in Monroe County. If your dates are flexible, the regular season gives you more time to plan your trip.
Here are the key 2026 dates and limits:
These rules apply to recreational harvest in Monroe County. Check the latest FWC rules before your trip. Local rules can affect where you can hunt.
Do not guess if a lobster is legal. In Monroe County, its carapace must be longer than three inches. You must measure it in the water. You also need a measuring device with you.
Most people need a Florida saltwater fishing license and a spiny lobster permit. Some people may qualify for an exemption. Egg-bearing lobsters cannot be kept. Recreational lobster trapping is also not allowed.
You also cannot hunt in every part of the Keys. Lobster harvest is closed in places such as Everglades National Park and Dry Tortugas National Park. It is also closed in no-take areas of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and other protected areas.
A legal-size lobster is not enough. You must also be in an open area and follow the other rules.
Key West has local rules that can affect where you hunt for lobster. One important rule limits lobster hunting within 300 feet of some residential and commercial shorelines. The rule can also apply around canals and public or private marinas.
These shoreline rules can vary by location and time of year. If you plan to hunt from shore, check the current rules for the exact area before you get in the water. Mini season can also be busy. More boats and divers are out, so you need to stay alert. Boats must follow the proper rules when near a vessel showing a dive flag.
Night diving for lobster is prohibited in Monroe County during the two-day sport season. Always check the latest FWC rules before your trip.
Not always. If you have your own boat and gear, you may be able to plan the trip yourself. Local knowledge helps, too. You also need to understand the rules and know where hunting is allowed. For visitors, the choice can be different. You may not have a boat or lobster gear. You may also have only a few days in Key West.
Think about everything you would need to arrange yourself. That can include:
A charter puts many of these pieces together. Forever Young's Key West lobster hunting trips are private. They include an in-water lobster guide. Trips can take up to four scuba divers or six freedivers. Tanks, weights, refreshments, and lobster equipment are also included.
Is it worth the price? That depends on your group. If you already have everything, maybe not. If you are visiting Key West and want to hunt lobster, a charter can save time and stress.
At Forever Young, we offer three Key West lobster hunting trip lengths. You can choose four, six, or eight hours. The listed prices are $1,500, $1,800, and $2,200. Full-day trips also have a typical $200 to $300 fuel charge. Mini-season trips have an extra $200 charge.
A four-hour trip can work well for a short vacation. It gives you time to hunt without taking up the whole day. A six-hour trip gives you more time on the water. An eight-hour trip may suit you if lobster hunting is a main part of your trip.
You do not need the longest trip just because it offers more time. Think about your group first. Consider your experience, energy, and other plans for the day.
Key West is not the only place to book a lobster hunting trip. At Forever Young, we also offer trips from Tavernier and Key Largo. Your hotel location can help you choose.
Staying in Key West? A Key West lobster hunting charter is the simplest option. You will not need to drive far before or after your trip. Staying farther north? A Tavernier lobster hunting charter may be easier. If you are near Key Largo, you can look at a Key Largo lobster hunting charter.
You can also compare the different options through Forever Young's Florida Keys lobster hunting charters page.
Choose the trip that fits your goal. Want to catch lobster? Book a lobster hunting charter. Want to swim, see fish, and explore the reef? A snorkeling trip may be a better fit.
It can be a good choice if you do not have a boat or gear. It can also help if you are new to the area. You get a private boat, local guidance, and the gear needed for the trip.
If lobster hunting is on your Key West list, start with the season dates. Then check the rules and pick the right trip length. From there, the choice is simple: do you want to handle the boat and gear yourself, or spend your day on the water with a crew that already knows the area?
