Stone Crab Harvesting Requirements

Stone Crab Harvesting Requirements

Practical reference for Florida recreational stone crab harvesters. Use this page as a starting point, then verify current rules with official FWC sources before setting traps or harvesting.

Season Dates

Florida recreational stone crab season generally runs from October 15 through May 1. Confirm current season dates with FWC before heading out, as dates and rules can change.

Claw Size Requirements

Only stone crab claws that meet the minimum size requirement may be harvested. Undersized claws must be returned to the water with the crab.

  • The propodus (larger claw segment) must measure at least 2 7/8 inches from the elbow to the tip of the lower immovable finger.
  • Always verify current size requirements with FWC before harvesting.

Trap Requirements

Recreational stone crab traps must meet FWC construction and marking requirements. Key requirements include:

  • Traps must be constructed to FWC specifications.
  • Each trap must be marked with the owner’s name, address, and Florida Recreational Stone Crab Trap Registration number.
  • Trap buoys must be marked with the owner’s stone crab registration number.
  • Recreational harvesters are limited in the number of traps they may set — verify current limits with FWC.

Trap Registration and Tagging

Florida recreational stone crab traps must be registered and tagged with required identification information. Tags must be durable, legible, and properly attached.

GEARXO stone crab trap tags are designed for Florida recreational harvesters and built for saltwater conditions — made in Key West.

Shop Stone Crab Trap Tags →

Bag Limits

Recreational bag limits apply to stone crab claws. Verify current bag limits with FWC before harvesting, as limits can change by season and location.

Harvest Method

Stone crabs must be harvested by removing one or both claws and returning the live crab to the water. It is illegal to take the whole crab. The crab can regenerate claws over subsequent molts.

License Requirements

A valid Florida saltwater fishing license is required to harvest stone crab recreationally. Additional trap registration may be required. Verify current license and permit requirements with FWC and GoOutdoorsFlorida before heading out.

Official Resources

GEARXO Reminder

This page is a practical reference only. Regulations, season dates, bag limits, and trap requirements can change. Always verify current rules with official FWC sources before setting traps or harvesting stone crab.

Updated seasonally. Always verify current regulations through official sources before heading out.

Related Resources