Keys Cookbook Where to Find Lobsters in Marathon Florida

Certainly! Here’s a detailed guide to the best areas in Marathon, Florida, to find spiny lobsters, along with tips on how to catch them responsibly and effectively.

Top Spiny Lobster Spots in Marathon, Florida

1. Sombrero Reef

· Location: Approximately 6 miles southeast of Marathon.

· Depth: 10–30 feet.

· Features: Vibrant coral formations and ledges.

· Access: Boat required.

· Note: This area is a Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA); harvesting lobsters is prohibited here. (The Florida Keys & Key West)

2. Coffins Patch

· Location: East of Marathon.

· Depth: 10–25 feet.

· Features: Patch reefs with abundant marine life.

· Access: Boat required.

· Note: This area is also a SPA; no lobster harvesting allowed.

3. Delta Shoal

· Location: Northeast of Marathon.

· Depth: 5–15 feet.

· Features: Sandy bottoms with scattered coral heads.

· Access: Boat required.

· Note: Not within a SPA; lobster harvesting is permitted following regulations.

4. Patch Reefs Near Boot Key

· Location: South of Marathon.

· Depth: 5–20 feet.

· Features: Small coral heads and rocky outcrops.

· Access: Boat or kayak.

· Note: Some areas may fall within SPAs; verify boundaries before harvesting. (ci.marathon.fl.us)

5. Seven Mile Bridge Area

· Location: West of Marathon.

· Depth: Varies.

· Features: Bridge pilings and rocky structures.

· Access: Boat or shore.

· Note: Check local regulations, as some bridge areas may have restrictions.

How to Catch Spiny Lobsters in Marathon

Essential Gear

· Mask, Snorkel, and Fins: For clear visibility and efficient movement.

· Gloves: Protect hands from sharp coral and lobster spines.

· Tickle Stick: A tool to coax lobsters out of their holes.

· Lobster Net: To safely capture lobsters once they exit their hiding spots.

· Mesh Catch Bag: For storing your catch securely.

· Measuring Gauge: Ensure lobsters meet the legal size requirement (carapace length over 3 inches).

· Dive Flag: Required by law to signal divers in the water.(happyinthekeys.com, Florida Sportsman, The Florida Keys & Key West)

Techniques

1. Spotting: Look for lobster antennae protruding from crevices.

2. Coaxing: Use the tickle stick to gently encourage the lobster out of its hole.

3. Netting: Once the lobster is out, swiftly place the net behind it to capture.

4. Measuring: Immediately measure the lobster while still in the water to ensure it's of legal size.

5. Bagging: Place legal-sized lobsters into your mesh catch bag.

Regulations to Remember

· Season: Regular season runs from August 6 to March 31.

· Mini-Season: Two-day sport season typically in late July; specific dates vary annually.

· Bag Limit: 6 lobsters per person per day in Monroe County.

· Size Limit: Carapace must be greater than 3 inches.

· Prohibited Areas: Harvesting is not allowed in SPAs and certain other protected zones. (happyinthekeys.com, The Florida Keys & Key West, Night Kayak - Night Kayak)

Additional Resources · Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC): Lobster Regulations · Marathon Lobster Season Brochure: PDF Guide(Reddit, ci.marathon.fl.us)

Safety Tips

· Always dive with a buddy.

· Be aware of boat traffic, especially near bridges.

· Stay hydrated and avoid overexertion.

· Respect marine life and habitats.

· Don’t touch the Coral Reefs ( It can Kill the Corals Reefs)

· Don’t throw a boat anchor on a Coral Reefs (you will be fined if you do)

Enjoy your lobstering adventure in Marathon, Florida!