Lobster season opens

Cayman’s favourite crustacean is back on the menu with the Department of Environment announcing the 1 Dec. start of lobster season.

The annual season will run through 28 Feb.

Strict rules are in place on how many lobsters, and of what size, can be taken.

The DoE, in its information page on the season, said lobster may only be taken from outside marine protected areas and only spiny lobsters (Panulirus argus) may be taken.

“Any lobster taken must have a minimum tail length of six inches. There is a take limit during the open season of three spiny lobster per person, per day, or six spiny lobster per boat, per day – whichever is less,” the DoE said.

In a post on its official Facebook page, the DoE said, “Marine park rules and boundaries remain in full effect at all times and no lobster may be taken from within the marine park even when in season.”

The DoE has also recommended the public download the ‘Cayman DoE’ app “to instantly ensure all fishing activities are taking place within the regulated seasons and outside the Marine Park boundaries to avoid violation of the rules and risk of prosecution from DoE Enforcement”.

The DoE, in its lobster info guide, added that anyone who takes, purchases, receives or offers for sale, exchange or donation more than three lobster per day from Cayman Islands waters commits an offence under the National Conservation Act.

“Anyone who possesses more than three lobster per day, or allows another person to take, more than three lobster per day from Cayman waters also commits an offence. The Law also bans the taking of lobster, and all other marine life except lionfish, while SCUBA diving. Using gloves, a spear or a hook stick to catch lobster is also unlawful at any time,” the DoE added.

The preferred method of catching lobster is with a snare.

“Lobster snares, which can be purchased locally, allow users to humanely catch lobster and also allow the harmless release of any undersized lobster,” the DoE said.

The DoE said if anyone sees, or is aware of suspected lobster poaching, or suspects someone is purchasing more than the legal daily limits, they are asked to call 911. DoE enforcement officers can also be contacted directly on Grand Cayman (916-4271), Cayman Brac (call 911) or Little Cayman (925-0185).