Lobster Charters and Snorkeling - Cudjoe Key
Private Trip
Shore Fishing
Hunt spiny lobsters with experienced guides in shallow watersExplore beautiful reefs teeming with fish, corals, and marine lifeSmall group experience accommodates up to four guests maximum
Picture this: you're floating above crystal-clear waters in the Lower Keys, peering down at coral heads and rocky ledges where Florida's famous spiny lobsters are hiding out. This isn't your typical fishing charter – we're talking about one of the most hands-on, exciting ways to harvest seafood in South Florida. Our top-rated lobster hunting and snorkeling trips out of Cudjoe Key put you right in the action, freediving and snorkeling over some of the most productive lobster grounds in the Keys. With only 4 guests max, you get personal attention from our experienced guides who know exactly where these tasty crustaceans like to hang out.
We'll cruise out to shallow reef areas and patch reefs where spiny lobsters love to set up shop. The beauty of lobster hunting in these waters is that you don't need to be a deep-water diver – most of our spots are in 8 to 15 feet of water, perfect for freediving and snorkeling. Your guide will point out the telltale signs: antennae poking out from under coral heads, eyes reflecting light from dark crevices, or those distinctive long spines giving away their hiding spots. Between lobster hunting, you'll have plenty of time to explore the reef ecosystem. These patch reefs are loaded with tropical fish, colorful corals, sea fans, and all kinds of marine life that make the Lower Keys such a world-class destination. Keep your eyes peeled for grouper, snapper, parrotfish, and maybe even a green moray eel tucked into the rocks.
We provide all the snorkeling gear you need – mask, fins, and snorkel – plus the specialized lobster hunting equipment. You'll use a tickle stick (basically a thin rod) to coax lobsters out of their holes and a net to catch them once they bolt. The technique is all about patience and knowing lobster behavior. These guys are quick, but they're also predictable. When you tickle them from the front, they'll usually shoot backward right into your waiting net. Our guides will show you how to measure them properly using the gauge – Florida has strict size limits, and we always follow the rules. You'll also learn how to tell the difference between legal lobsters and egg-bearing females, which are off-limits. The best part? You get to keep what you catch (within legal limits), so you're looking at fresh lobster dinner that night.
Florida spiny lobsters are the stars of this show, and there's good reason they're considered a customer favorite throughout the Keys. These aren't your typical Maine lobsters – spinys don't have the big claws, but their tails are packed with sweet, firm meat that's absolutely delicious. They're most active during lobster season, which runs from August through March, with the first few months being particularly productive as they're moving around more after the summer closure. Adult spinys can reach up to 15 inches and weigh several pounds, though most of what you'll encounter will be in the 6 to 10-inch range. What makes lobster hunting so addictive is the challenge – you have to think like they do. They're nocturnal by nature, so during the day they're tucked into crevices, under ledges, or buried in coral rubble. The skilled hunters learn to read the reef structure and spot the subtle signs that give away a lobster's location. Once you get your first one, you'll understand why people come back year after year for this hands-on harvest experience.
Ready to try your hand at one of Florida's most rewarding seafood adventures? Our lobster hunting and snorkeling trips book up fast, especially during peak season when the bugs are moving and the weather's cooperating. With just 4 spots available per trip, you're guaranteed personalized instruction and plenty of opportunities to practice your technique. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or completely new to freediving, our experienced guides will have you hunting like a pro. Plus, you'll come away with stories, photos, and hopefully a cooler full of fresh lobster tails. This is the kind of authentic Keys experience that you can't get anywhere else – book your charter today and get ready to see why lobster hunting has become such a trending activity among visitors and locals alike.
Our motorboat gets you to the best lobster grounds around Cudjoe Key in comfort. With room for 4 anglers, she's equipped with everything you need for a successful hunt - GPS to hit the prime spots, fish finder to read the bottom structure where those spiny lobsters love to hide, and an ice box to keep your catch fresh. The wireless trolling motor lets us approach the reefs quietly without spooking marine life, perfect for both lobster hunting and snorkeling over the vibrant coral formations. The shallow-water design handles the flats and reef areas where lobsters tuck themselves under ledges and in rocky crevices. Whether you're freediving for bugs or exploring the coral gardens, this boat delivers reliable performance on the water with all the gear to make your Florida Keys fishing adventure productive.
Cudjoe Key