How to Catch Spiny Lobster in the Florida Keys

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By whypanic
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Spiny lobsters are succulent and rich and one of the reasons to come to the Florida Keys. Capture of the Florida spiny lobster is easy and well within the limits of the law, so follow these steps to catch these elusive creatures and dine like a king in the evening!

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Tickle stick
Net
Measuring gauge
Valid Florida fishing license with crawfish endorsement

Step 1

Locate the lobster. They can often be found under ledges and corals, in rock piles and holes. Spotting them can be relatively easy. Look for the long, red spiny antennae sticking out.
Step 2

Tickle them out into an open space. Tickle sticks are no more than a three foot long stick. Use the stick to poke the lobster's backside and it should come crawling out from its hiding place.
Step 3

Place your net a foot or so behind the lobster.
Step 4

Use the tickle stick to rap the antennae. This action should cause the lobster to scoot backwards and into the net.
Step 5

Scoop it up.
Step 6

Measure the lobster's carapace with your measuring device. The total length of the carapace, from the eye stalks to where the tail starts has to measure a minimum of three inches.