What Florida boaters need to know about the 2026 lobster mini season

Florida’s 2026 lobster mini season is just days away, and state and federal officials are warning boaters to expect crowded waterways and stepped-up enforcement. The two-day recreational event runs July 29–30 and allows divers and boaters to harvest spiny lobster before the start of the regular commercial and recreational season. The U.S. Coast Guard and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) say they will increase safety inspections and fishery enforcement, with Coast Guard crews and FWC officers patrolling coastal waters, conducting vessel boardings, and enforcing boating safety and fishery laws. Scott Szczepaniak of the Coast Guard Southeast District urged proper lookout and situational awareness, noting collisions with other boats, bridges, or the bottom. Boaters are also reminded to review FWC spiny lobster regulations before heading out.