is it necessary to dive?can l just snorkel?do my 15 and 13 y.old sons need to have fishing license?everyone knows good spot of lobstering and also decant place to stay and bring my own boat down??thanks
'new boater' from tampa

There is none, Maine is the best lobstering spot guy.

l recommend the lower keys like Big Pine Key. It has less tourists and lots of places to lobster. The water is pretty shallow and snorkeling is pretty common.Here is how we do it: Have a ski tow rope and drag the snorkeler behind the boat at idle speed. When they see a lobster or a good looking spot, they let go and dive down, you stop too. Check with your local tax collector office for licenses, not sure about age exemptions.

as far as keys, l would recommend Marathon for economy and it has everything you need, . if you want to camp,pennekamp state park, it has a reef and you will have good snorkeling.no fishing in the park. be sure to plan your trip after a period calm weather. So water will be its clearest,thats important. have a good anchor, currents run...google florida keys lobsters

Red Neck Guy is correct.lobsters r found off the New England coast (primarily Maine). What u actually have in Florida r not lobsters but over-sized salt water crayfish.

Like the answer too about being towed behind the boat at idle speed. Easy way to cover more ground faster. How good though r u at holding ur breath? Tanks, if u have them, will make the trip more fun & u can save the diving with the snorkel while out on the water with ur sons.unless they have diving gear too. Done it myself while stationed at McDill & it gets old real fast with only a snorkel!

Good luck & have fun!

All the Key is have lobster Marathon has everything needed>And good Housing> wait a while as it is not a pretty picture today> It is blowing 40+ and the water is white> So it will take a week or 2 before it is clear again>
l know i'm looking at it> Marathon FL>

Having lived in Tampa myself l understand u question. I'd go to Marathon Key! It came recommended to me, & l loved it. A two day trip was about right. l know the catch is luck but ur going for the fun & sand! As to the questions, diving easier, but u can just snorkel. The rules change year to year, but u all need permits, there is a boat permit l think. The lobsters like shallow depressions in the bottom. Check the charts. Camping at the State Park is good. Good Luck!