How to Safely Hunt Spiny Lobster & Cull Lionfish in Florida
Lori Sauer Aug 01, 2026
There is something undeniably rewarding about combining scuba diving with ocean conservation and harvesting your own sustainable seafood. In Florida, two underwater pursuits dominate the hunting scene: harvesting delicious Florida Spiny Lobsters and culling invasive Lionfish.
While both activities add an exciting new dimension to your dive profile, doing it safely, ethically, and legally requires specific skills and equipment.
Why Culling Lionfish Matters
Invasive lionfish have no natural predators in Atlantic waters, and a single female can produce up to 30,000 eggs every few days. They consume vast amounts of native juvenile reef fish, putting severe pressure on our local ecosystems.
Because lionfish have zero natural fear of divers, human culling is the primary defense line. Using a short-to-medium pole spear with a 3-prong paralyzer tip and a hard-shell containment tube (like a Zookeeper), divers can safely remove these reef invaders without risking a spine sting or damaging nearby coral.
The Art of Outsmarting Spiny Lobsters
Unlike their Northern cousins, Florida Spiny Lobsters don't have large crushing claws—their primary defense is speed, sharp spines, and long antennae. Catching them requires finesse rather than force:
-
Spotting: Look for antennae waving gently from deep inside reef ledges.
-
Positioning: Always place your catch net behind the lobster.
-
The Tickle: Gently tap the lobster's tail with a tickle stick from behind/beside it. Their natural reflex is to jet backward straight into your open net!
-
In-Water Measuring: Before putting a lobster in your mesh bag, you must measure the carapace underwater using an approved lobster gauge (minimum > 3 inches).
Gear Up & Join Our Workshop!
Want to practice these skills hands-on before hitting the boat? Join us for our Lionfish & Lobstering Workshop at the shop!
You’ll learn:
-
Legal bag limits, seasons, and measuring techniques.
-
Proper setup for pole spears, Zookeepers, gauges, and tickle sticks.
-
Venom safety, spine removal, and live filleting demonstrations.
-
Hands-on gear practice with experienced instructors.
Check out our upcoming event and register for the next workshop here!