The Gulf of Mexico is home to a wide array of wildlife, including waterfowl, shorebirds, many different fish species, coral reefs, and more, even lobsters. Texas is not known for having a lobster population, but they are occasionally seen if the conditions are right. Now, let’s look deeper to find out if there are lobsters in the Gulf of Mexico and if you can catch them.
Are There Lobsters in the Texas Gulf of Mexico?
Lobsters exist in the Gulf of Mexico, though they are typically found more prominently in areas other than Texas. The Gulf of Mexico has many marine ecosystems, home to a wide variety of sea life. Sporadically, lobster populations have been observed.
Lobster Species in the Gulf
There are several lobster species you can find in the Gulf of Mexico. Let’s look at some of the common ones.
Spiny Lobster
Spiny lobsters are the most common species seen in the Gulf. There are two types of Spiny lobster: Spotted and Broad-tailed. These Spiny lobsters have large tails but do not have claws to protect themselves, so they move very quickly.
Spanish Slipper Lobster
Spanish Slipper Lobsters are bright red and shiny. They are often found in the cracks and crevices of coral reefs but are also some of the most widely caught lobsters for commercial sale to markets and restaurants.
Sculptured Slipper Lobster
Sculptures Slipper Lobsters resemble horseshoe crabs. They have ten legs, a flat body, and a brownish-yellow, sandy-looking shell.
Can You Catch Lobster in the Gulf?
Yes, you can catch lobster in the Gulf of Mexico, though it is easier to find them around Texas if the current is right and they had a mild winter, so the water conditions are right. Lobsters tend to reside in more tropical areas.
Regulations and Legal Considerations
There are several federal regulations regarding lobster fishing, including times of year, bag limits, and sizes.
- Lobster fishing is open from January 1 through March 31, July 24 through July 25, and August 6 through March 31.
- Lobster fishing is closed from April 1 through July 23, July 26 through August 5, and April 1 through December 31.
- Bag limit of six lobsters.
- The carapace length must be three inches.
Note that divers catching lobsters must measure them in the water. If the lobster’s length is under the three-inch minimum, you must release it without leaving the water.
Lobster Fishing Techniques
When it comes to lobster fishing techniques, you can catch them while snorkeling or scuba diving with a hoop net by hand or go out on a boat with a hoop net trap. An experienced Angler can point you in the right direction of where you can find lobsters. You can use sardines as bait in the lobster trap, lowering into the water and then bringing it up every 15 minutes or so to check for lobsters.
There are Lobsters in the Gulf of Mexico, and Boat Stop Marina can Help
So, are there lobsters in the Gulf of Mexico? The simple answer is yes, but finding them on the Texas Gulf Coast can be difficult. If you want to go lobster fishing, you may have to travel out into the Gulf, where the waters are more tropical. Ensure that you follow all of the rules and regulations of lobster fishing.
If you have questions or want to discuss lobster fishing, contact us at Boat Stop Marina for the answer you seek. We are here to make your lobster fishing trip a success.