The Spiny Lobster can be caught with simple equipment that can include:
1). Divers may take lobsters by hand only
2) A mesh bag to keep the lobster in once they have been caught,
3) Gloves to protect your hands from the spines of the lobster,
4) A net to catch the lobster, and finally,
5) A measuring gauge to make sure the lobster is large enough to keep.
Spiny lobsters can be found near the shoreline or out in deeper water, you can use snorkel or scuba gear to find them.
When can we catch him?
California spiny lobster season runs from the Saturday preceding the first Wednesday in October, to the first Wednesday after the 15th of March. (October 2, 2010 - March 16, 2011)
Where can we catch him?
Adult spiny lobsters make their homes in crevices and caverns of coral reefs, sponge flats, old barrels, and almost any structure where something could hide. Lobsters stay in their dens during daylight hours to avoid predators, and come out a couple of hours after dark to look for food. If you are hunting during the day, they'll be hiding in these places, so look around. You usually won't be able to see the whole lobster, but will usually see a pair of antennae poking out. Most likely, if you spot one pair on antennae, you'll see more!
California Laws
Any person who is 16 years of age or older must possess his or her own fishing license when taking any fish, shell fish, reptile, or amphibian in California.
Skin and scuba divers may only use bare (or gloved) hands to take lobster.
- No fish spears, short hooked poles, or similar appliances may be used to remove lobsters from crevices and caves. Baited hoop nets may also be used to take lobster.
All lobster must be measured in the water and released unharmed if under sized.
Each harvester must have a gauge made for measuring lobster while harvesting in the water.
All recreationally harvested lobster must remain in whole condition while at sea.
It is an offense to spear California Spiny Lobster.
The recreational fishery for lobster runs from early October through mid-March, same as the commercial season. The closed season protects eggcarrying females and molting lobsters.
All lobsters must have a carapace larger than 3.25 inches.
All divers must have with them a fixed measure gauge while in the water.
It is illegal for recreational fishers to sell their catch.
Spiny lobster pots can only be used by the holder of a commercial license.
A bag limit of 7 Spiny lobster per person per day (regardless of how taken).
The use of corfs to keep Spiny lobster alive in the water is prohibited.
A snare is not a permitted device.
Persons diving from a boat or shore may have their license on the boat or within 500 yards from shore, respectively. The law now provides for a minimum $250 fine for fishing without a license.
Information courtesy of: http://local.sandiego.com
