Get Ready for a Memorable Lobster Mini Season at Hawks Cay Resort

July 10, 2023

Calling all lobster enthusiasts and adventure seekers! Prepare to dive into the excitement of lobster mini season at Hawks Cay Resort.

In the Florida Keys, lobster mini season is an eagerly anticipated event that will take place on July 26th and 27th, 2023, marking the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday of July each year. This brief two-day window sets the stage for an incredible adventure before the regular lobster season begins on August 6th and lasts until March 31st.

To ensure a safe and responsible harvest, it's essential to be aware of the regulations governing lobster mini season. Here are the key regulations for the 2023 mini season, provided by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission:

Daily Bag Limit: In Monroe County and Biscayne National Park, the daily bag limit is 6 lobsters per person. For the rest of Florida, the daily bag limit is 12 lobsters per person.

Possession Limit: The possession limit on the water is equal to the daily bag limit. Off the water, the possession limit is equal to the daily bag limit on the first day and double the daily bag limit on the second day. Possession limits are enforced both on and off the water.

Minimum Size Limit: The carapace (body) of the lobster must be larger than 3 inches, measured in the water. It is mandatory to possess and use a measuring device at all times to ensure compliance with the size limit.

Night Diving: Night diving is prohibited in Monroe County during the sport season. Diving is defined as swimming at or below the surface of the water.

Restricted Areas: Harvest of lobster is prohibited in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park during the sport season. Additionally, lobster harvesting is prohibited in Everglades National Park, Dry Tortugas National Park, no-take areas in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, the Biscayne Bay/Card Sound Lobster Sanctuary, and the five Coral Reef Protection Areas in Biscayne National Park during both the 2-day sport season and regular season.

Please note that unless exempt, a recreational saltwater fishing license and a lobster permit are required to harvest spiny lobster. It is also important to abide by other prohibitions, such as landing lobsters in whole condition and not separating the tail from the body in state waters.

At Hawks Cay Resort, we're excited to be part of the lobster mini season excitement. Whether you're an experienced lobster hunter or embarking on this adventure for the first time, our stunning location and world-class amenities provide the perfect backdrop for your unforgettable experience. As usual, we will feature our famous Hook n’ Cook lobster special at Angler & Ale. So, gear up, get ready, and prepare for an exhilarating journey into the depths of the Florida Keys during lobster mini season at Hawks Cay Resort. We eagerly await the opportunity to welcome you to our slice of paradise!