California Spiny Lobster Season Opens With Record-Breaking Catch

The California Spiny Lobster season kicked off this week with fishermen bringing in a whopping 24,000-pound haul – the largest catch opening day in state history.

The abundance of spiny lobster is good news for both commercial and recreational fisherman, as well as the restaurants and consumers who enjoy this succulent crustacean.

California's spiny lobster fishery is among the most valuable in the world, with a landed value of $24 million in 2016. The annual catch averages around 25,000 pounds, so this year's opening day haul is a major boon to the industry.

Commercial fishermen typically harvest spiny lobsters using traps or pots baited with dead fish or squid. The lobster are then collected and processed onboard the boat. Recreational fishermen often use spear guns or hook-and-line to catch them.

There are two types of spiny lobsters found off the coast of California: the California Spiny Lobster (Panulirus interruptus) and the Red Rock Lobster (Jasus edwardsii). Both are considered a delicacy and are widely sought after by seafood lovers.

The California Spiny Lobster is found along the coast from Humboldt Bay south to Baja California, while the Red Rock Lobster is only found near Santa Barbara County.

The best time to go lobster fishing is during the fall and winter months when they are more abundant near shore. For those looking to try their hand at catching these tasty crustaceans, there are plenty of great spots along the coast where you can do so legally. Just be sure to check with your local Department of Fish and Wildlife for regulations governing recreational fishing for spiny lobsters.

South Florida Divers Net 1,000-Pound Spiny Lobster

A group of South Florida divers netted a 1,000-pound spiny lobster over the weekend.

The huge crustacean was caught by a team of eight divers near Islamorada. They used a Hawaiian sling to trap the lobster in a deep hole.

The lobster is now being held at the Florida Keys Fisheries Service in Tavernier. It will be measured and released back into the ocean.

This isn't the first time a massive spiny lobster has been caught in Florida waters. In fact, there have been several reports of lobsters over 1,000 pounds in recent years.

Experts believe that the Florida Keys are home to some of the largest spiny lobsters in the world. These giants can weigh up to 20 pounds and measure more than 3 feet long.

Oregon Beachcombers Find a 30-Pound Spiny Lobster

For a few weeks now, the beaches near Brookings, Oregon have been yielding some pretty big catches for beachcombers. A 30-pound spiny lobster was recently hauled in by a lucky local, and it's not the only one that's been caught lately. Fishermen are reporting all sorts of sea creatures washing up on shore, including crabs, octopuses, and even sea lions.

Local biologists believe that the strange activity is likely due to El Nino, which has been causing all sorts of weird weather patterns this year. No one is quite sure what's going to happen next, but for now, the locals are enjoying their unusual bounty. So if you're ever in the area, be sure to stop by the beach and see if you can't find yourself a lobster dinner!

Maine's Commercial Fishermen Land 12,000-Pound Spiny Lobster Catch

The commercial lobstermen in Maine have pulled a massive 12,000-pound spiny lobster catch. The state's Department of Marine Resources commissioner, Patrick Keliher, was on hand to witness the haul and called it a "once in a lifetime" event.

This year's catch is a record breaker, with the previous record being just over 9,000 pounds. The lobstermen hauled the catch from deep waters southeast of Mount Desert Island.

Keliher says the bounty will help keep prices stable for consumers and provide a much-needed economic boost to the state's fishermen. He also said that such large catches could become more common as the ocean's temperature continues to warm.

Maine is America's biggest producer of lobsters, accounting for more than 80% of the country's total catch.

International Group Sets New Record for Largest Spiny Lobster

On November 13th, a new world record was set for the largest spiny lobster ever caught. The international group, which was made up of fishermen from several different countries, hauled in the massive seafood staple from the waters off the coast of Antigua. Weighing in at a whopping 16.5 pounds, the spiny lobster was easily double the size of any other specimen that has been caught before.

The massive crustacean is believed to be around 50 years old and is now on display at a local restaurant in Antigua. Lobster lovers from around the world are making the trip to see this delicious sea creature up close and personal.

There is no doubt that this new world record will bring even more attention to Antigua's stunning coastal waters. Not only is this an incredible place for fishing, but it is also home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the Caribbean. With its crystal clear water and diverse marine life, Antigua is a top destination for divers and snorkelers alike.