Florida Stone Crab Trap Regulations
Recreational stone crab trapping in Florida requires a valid saltwater fishing license with a free stone crab endorsement. Harvesters are strictly limited to 5 traps per person, and traps must follow specific requirements regarding dimensions, tags, escape rings, and seasonal dates.
The critical regulations to follow before you drop your traps include:
1. Seasons & Limits
- Season: Open from October 15 through May 2.
- Bag Limit: 1 gallon of stone crab claws per person, or a maximum of 2 gallons per vessel (whichever is less).
- Egg-bearing Crabs: It is illegal to harvest from female crabs carrying eggs.
2. Trap Specifications & Modifications
- Size: Maximum of 24" x 24" x 24" (or 8 cubic feet).
- Material: Can be made of wood, wire, or plastic.
- Escape Ring: All wood and plastic traps require an unobstructed escape ring measuring at least 2 3/16 inches in diameter, located on a vertical exterior wall.
- Degradable Panel: Traps must feature a degradable panel made of cypress or untreated pine slat (measuring 5 1/2 by 3 1/2 inches) to prevent continuous ghost-fishing if the trap is lost.
3. Labeling & Buoy Requirements
- Trap Marking: You must permanently inscribe your name and address on the trap.
- Buoy Marking: Buoys must be at least 6 inches in size, and must be legibly marked with the letter "R" (at least 2 inches tall) along with your stone crab endorsement number.
- Placement: Traps may be placed in the water up to 10 days before the season opens, but cannot be tended to before the season starts. They must be removed from the water within 5 days after the season closes.
For a comprehensive checklist, detailed measurement diagrams, and to get your free endorsement, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Stone Crab Guide.