The stone crab harvest season commenced on October 15 and will continue until May 1, closing the following day. The minimum size limit for stone crab claws is set at 2 7/8 inches.
A requirement for both recreational and commercial crab traps is an unobstructed escape ring with a diameter of 2 3/16 inches on a vertical exterior trap wall.
Recreational harvesters aged 16 and older must register online annually for a no-cost recreational stone crab trap registration. This can be done by visiting GoOutdoorsFlorida.com, signing in, and selecting “Recreational Stone Crab Trap Registration.” After registering, individuals receive unique numbers to attach to each trap along with their name and address.
Careful handling of crabs is advised to avoid permanent injury when removing claws. Claws cannot be taken from egg-bearing crabs, nor can crabs be harvested using devices that may puncture or crush them. Acceptable daily limits are one gallon of claws per person or two gallons per vessel, whichever is less, with up to five traps allowed per person.
Unused traps should be removed from the water to prevent ghost fishing. Regulations apply equally in state and federal waters.
Further information on harvesting regulations can be found at MyFWC.com/Marine under “Recreational Regulations” and selecting “Stone Crab.” The Fish Rules app provides updates on Florida fishing regulations and is available on mobile platforms.