Miami’s 2019 Lobster Season Guide
Happy Trailer Storage Welcomes Start of the 2019-20 Lobster Season in Miami
One of the most highly-anticipated events in Miami, lobster mini-season, officially begins at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, July 24 and ends at midnight the following day. This two-day event gives recreational fishermen the opportunity to get lobsters before the commercial season begins. The regular eight-month season starts shortly after on August 6th and runs through March 31, 2020.
Before you head out on the water, check out our tips below to ensure a safe and successful hunt!
SAFETY FIRST
There is always a risk associated with scuba diving, especially during mini-season. With thousands of recreational boaters on the water at one time, make sure to have your dive flag visible, bring a spotter, and keep your eyes and ears open. Also, if you are tempted to reach into a hole or under coral to grab a bug, don’t. You risk getting stuck or bitten by an unknown fish lurking below.
BRING THE CORRECT EQUIPMENT
There is nothing more frustrating during a dive than malfunctioning equipment. From a leaking mask to a broken regulator, make sure to avoid the hassle by having your gear tested and prepped for the season.
Common Lobstering Equipment
- Dive flag: All divers in Florida waters must display a dive flag and stay within 300-feet of open water.
- Lobster net and tail snare: Nets are used on sand flats, while snares are best for reefs.
- Tickle stick: A thin fiberglass rod about 24-inches long used to coax lobsters out of holes without harming the reef.
- Gloves: For the lobster, not the reef.
- Mesh bag: Used to hold your catch. Look for models that have a convenient way to attach to your weight belt or gear, and a locking enclosure. Be sure to put your name on all of your equipment.
- Lobster gauge: Every diver must carry a lobster gauge and must measure the lobster under-water before it’s placed in the game bag.
- Mask, fins, snorkel or dive gear
Be sure you are familiar with the rules of the lobster season before heading out on the water:
KNOW YOUR LIMITS
During the mini-season, recreational divers and snorkelers can take a maximum of 12 lobsters per person, per day in South Florida, except for Monroe County and Biscayne National Park where the limit is six per person, per day, and the Biscayne Bay/Card Sound Lobster Sanctuary where the taking of any lobster is prohibited. Possession limits are strictly enforced on and off the water. During the regular season, the maximum limit for all locations is six lobsters per person, per day.
SIZE MATTERS
It is important to remember that the body of the lobster, excluding the tail, should be larger than three inches, measured in the water. Have a measuring device on you at all times – it’s required by law. Be sure you are familiar with how to measure a lobster properly.
BUY A LICENSE OR GET FINED
Anyone taking or attempting to take a lobster must have a recreational saltwater fishing license and a spiny lobster permit to participate in the lobster season. These can easily be picked up at your local Publix Super Markets or online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
KEEP THE LOBSTERS INTACT
Do not remove the tail. Lobsters must be kept intact from catch to arrival on shore.
WHERE TO LOBSTER IN SOUTH FLORIDA
While the Florida Keys draw the biggest crowds, there are a number of advantages to enjoying mini-season right here in your own backyard. One of the biggest perks is your overall catch. In the Keys and Monroe County, the limit per person, per day is six as opposed to South Florida which is 12. There are also plenty of lobster-heavy sites to choose from in Miami and the tri-county area. Also, since mini-season rules are looser, it’s legal to dive at night for lobster, so some dive operators offer a 24-hour charter schedule.
In Miami, you can start your hunt right from the beach. Legal-size lobster can be found within just 50-yards of the sands of South Beach, or you can join lobster charters to natural reefs, ledges, grass beds and man-made, state-approved rubble reefs.
In Broward and Palm Beach counties, the first reef line is an easy swim from shore and is home to plenty of bugs at the start of the season. If you’re looking for an adventure, there are numerous sites further offshore that local charter boats can take divers to. In Palm Beach, a popular spot for spiny lobster are the deep ledges off Jupiter Inlet. If you want to go a bit further, charters out of Palm Beach Inlet offer a selection of both deep ledges and shallow reef lines that hold plenty of big bugs for drift divers
Stay safe and enjoy lobster season!
July 4th Fireworks Miami
Top Places in Miami to Watch Fireworks on Independence Day
Happy
Independence Day! With July 4th falling on a Thursday, many of you
will be enjoying a long weekend celebrating America’s birthday. We live in one
of the most amazing places on the planet to watch Fourth of July fireworks soar
over the Atlantic by boat. So it’s no surprise that everyone wants to take to
the water to view the colorful explosions along the coastline. Inexperienced
boaters can make the waters dangerous so ensure the safety of you and your
passengers by exercising additional caution this July 4th weekend.
Here’s
our list of the top destinations in Miami for boat owners to watch the
fireworks. Be sure to schedule your boat launch in advance to avoid delays
getting out on the water.
All fireworks displays begin at 9 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
Key Biscayne’s Fourth of July Parade
Runs along Crandon Boulevard from Harbor Drive to West Enid Drive
Key Biscayne
Biscayne Bay offers a front row seat to several fireworks shows from Key Biscayne, South Beach, Downtown Miami and Coconut Grove.
Parade: 11:00 a.m.
Bayfront Park: “Americas Birthday Bash”
301 N. Biscayne Blvd.; view from Biscayne Bay
Downtown Miami
One of the largest fireworks shows in South Florida
Miami Beach’s “Fire on the Fourth” Festival
Collins and 73rd St., at the North Shore Bandshell Park
Miami Beach
Live concerts begin at 5 p.m.
Be sure to look to the south for fireworks over the Atlantic along Ocean Drive at Lummus Park, between 5th and 15th streets, on Miami Beach.
South Pointe Park
South Jetty, 1 Washington Ave.
Miami Beach
Government Cut is one of the best spots in Miami to catch a variety of fireworks shows at once! This quiet spot at the southern tip of South Beach offers another prefect perch to watch the sky light up, with views of fireworks on the Atlantic, Downtown Miami and Coconut Grove.
Haulover Beach Sandbar
10800 Collins Ave.
Bal Harbour
The Haulover Beach Sandbar is a great place for daytime water activities. When the sun sets, catch the fireworks display on the southern jetty of Baker’s Haulover Cut.
Black Point Marina 4th of July Spectacular
24775 SW 87 Ave.
Homestead
Grab a bite or beverage before the night lights up at Black Point Ocean Grill, an award-winning waterfront restaurant and bar.
North Miami Celebration by the Bay
FIU Biscayne Campus
3000 NE 151st St.
North Miami Beach
Fireworks begin at sundown
Can’t make up your mind? Then sail along the Intracoastal to catch the 9 p.m. fireworks displays in Miami Beach, Key Biscayne, Downtown Miami, and Coconut Grove
Top 5 Places to See Manatees in Miami, and beyond
Top 5 Places to See Manatees in Miami
Are you looking to see a manatee? Check out our list of top viewing locations in Miami and Beyond
It’s that time of year when Florida’s most endearing snowbirds make the trek south, flocking to warmer waters to escape the winter chill. Manatees, or “sea cows” as they’re affectionately called, congregate in the warm waters of South Florida’s power plant discharge canals and many of the state’s crystal clear springs farther north when the water temperatures drop below 68 degrees. Although they are massive in size, manatees have very little body fat, so they can often be found huddling together for refuge in warmer waters during manatee season (November 15-March 31).
Here are a few local spots where you can catch a glimpse of these majestic sea mammals before they head north for the summer, along with some road-trip worthy destinations to clear blue crystal springs for the ultimate viewing experience.
Manatees traverse Miami’s extensive canal system during the winter months. A popular spot for them is the area from Black Point Park & Marina near Biscayne National Park to Biscayne Bay. Manatees typically poke their whiskery snouts out of the water every 2 to 5 minutes, but can stay submerged for as long as 20 minutes, so be sure to pack your patience.
Manatee
Lagoon – Florida Power & Light Eco-Discovery Center, West Palm Beach
Power plants are a hot spot
for manatees, so its no surprise the warm-water outflows of Florida Power & Light Company’s (FPL) Riviera Beach Next
Generation Clean Energy Center is an ideal location for manatee watching. For the most ideal viewing opportunities, visit when cooler temperatures continue over a period of two to three days with minimal cloud cover. If you can’t make it to the lagoon, be sure to check out their Manatee Cam live stream. (Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9 a.m. to
4 p.m.)
Manatee
Observation and Educational Center, Fort Pierce
Managed by Ft. Pierce Power Authority, the Manatee Observation, and Education Center is a waterfront environmental education and wildlife viewing center. Overlooking Moore’s Creek, the Center provides a resting spot for manatees and a covered observation walkway and second story observation tower providing visitors the perfect spots to see manatees and other wildlife. Swampland Tours and Lisa’s Kayaks provide adventure tours to get on the water for closer observation. (Open Tuesday-Sunday during Manatee Season)
Canaveral
National Seashore Manatee Observation Deck,
Titusville
Canaveral
National Seashore, located along the east coast in both Volusia and Brevard counties, features a manatee observation deck where the Kennedy Parkway crosses the Haulover Canal. This spot is popular with manatees and tourists alike. The observation deck features benches for visitors to enjoy the view and manatee information displays. If you don’t have any luck at the Manatee Observation Deck, head over to Bairs Cove Boat Ramp, also along the Haulover Canal.
Crystal
River National Wildlife Refuge, Crystal River
People come from around the world to interact with manatees at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1983 to protect the then-endangered Florida manatee by creating a refuge to preserve the last unspoiled and undeveloped spring habitat in Kings Bay, which forms the headwaters of the Crystal River. The refuge provides critical habitat for the manatee
populations that migrate here each winter.
The most popular area to view manatees is Three
Sisters Springs, a designated manatee sanctuary between November and March. Several park programs allow visitors to snorkel alongside the manatees, but you can also see them from the boardwalk, viewing points along the roads and on the bridges inside the refuge.
Although no longer endangered, the Florida manatees’ status is
considered “vulnerable” due to its declining population. Their biggest threat is humans. When viewing these gentle giants, keep in mind that It is illegal to harass manatees (that includes hugging), so be sure to give them their space. Check out Crystal River Refuge’s “Manatee Manners” video on how to swim near manatees in a safe and fun way for you and the manatees.
2019 Miami Boat Show
2019 Miami International Boat Show
What you need to know about the Miami Boat Show
The Miami International Boat Show runs from February 14 through 18 at the Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin, Virginia Key. Explore more than 3,000 boats and 2,000 exhibitors showcasing the latest and greatest in marine technology, gear, and accessories.
The Miami Boat Show takes place in two locations; the Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin and Miamarina at Bayside. At Miamarina at Bayside is the Strictly Sail Boat Show. You do not want to miss this incredible event. There is truly something for every boating lifestyle and budget.
Ticket Info
Premier Day (Thursday): $40 Adult (age 13+): $25 Two-day pass (Friday–Monday, February 12–15): $45 Five-day pass: $100 Children (12 & younger): FREE with a paid adult admission.
Getting to the Event
There is limited parking near the event site and only one road in and out. It is strongly recommended to take an UBER or the free water taxi or shuttle bus to the event. You can access both from the American Airlines Arena and Bayfront Park.
For more details, visit the Boat Show Website at http://www.miamiboatshow.com/.
2017 Miami Boat Show Tips
Miami Boat Show Tips
The 2017 Miami International Boat Show returns to Marine Stadium Park & Basin on Virginia Beach Key over President’s Day Weekend, Thursday, February 16 through – Monday the 20th. See boats of all sizes, makes, and models while shopping for the latest in marine accessories and clothing. Tickets are $25 for adults and admission is free for ages 15 and younger.
There are several options for getting to this year’s show including the water taxi and shuttles buses. Water taxis operate from 9 am to 7 pm during the event. Downtown lots are located at Marlins Park and American Airlines Arena. Pick-up and drop-off locations are Bayfront Park, American Airlines Arena, the Hyatt Hotel and the W Miami.
Learn more click here
A Guide To Fishing Season in South Florida
South Florida Fishing Season Guide
The winds are starting to lie down and it’s a wonderful time for fishing in South Florida. With lobster season and stone crab season coming to its end, there are many other opportunities to go fishing as we come out of Spring. From the deep sea to Biscayne Bay there are plenty of opportunities to catch your next dinner or wall mount. It’s all fun until you get a fine, so whether you’re hunting for Wahoo or Mahi or grouper, we want you to be safe when it comes to size and season regulations. View our guide below to a successful 2016 Fishing Season in Miami and all of South Florida. And remember; to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), size and timing do matter. So pay attention to what’s in season and the size of your catch or be prepared to pay.
What’s in Season Now?
The big question everyone is asking us is when is Grouper Season in Miami? Offshore, the grouper are biting because they know that they’re untouchable! Grouper is off-limits until May 1st, in which the season will run until December 31. Learn more about Grouper Season in Miami at myfwc.com. Now is the season for Wahoo and for Blackfin Tuna as well. May through July is the peak season for Mahi and Amberjack.
Fishing Biscayne Bay and the Flats
If you’re not in the mood to be out in open water, fishing Biscayne Bay and the flats are great choices. If you’re fishing the bay make sure to have some live shrimp and get ready to catch the ravenous speckled trout that are chowing down this time of year. April through July is also a very good time to sharpen up on your fly fishing skills in the bay The tarpon are here in great abundance, and if you’re looking for the Slam (tarpon, permit, bonefish), it can happen during these next few months.
Fishing Regulations Cheat Sheet
There are many rules and regulations to be aware of when it comes to fishing in South Florida. Below is a rule and regulation cheat sheet for Saltwater Fishing from mywfc.com. It’s a great document to keep on your boat.
Download Cheat Sheet
What do you think? What are your thoughts about Fishing Season in South Florida? What tips would you add? Leave your questions and comments in the box below. Also, if you have a story about catching the Slam, please share!
For more information about Fishing Season contact our facility at 786-728-9988.
Top 10 Winter Boating Tips for South Florida
Top 10 Winter Boating Tips for South Florida
If you are fortunate enough to be in South Florida during the winter months you’ll notice the weather is sublime. With average temperatures in the 70’s, there is no stopping the fun due to cold weather like our friends up north.
There is no place like South Florida for boating during the winter months. While here you can see everything from boat parades and seawall fishing rodeos to manatees and billfish tournaments. South Florida is a boater’s dream during the winter months.
Below we have compiled our list winter boating tips for Fort Lauderdale
- Hurricane Season ends November 30th
- Bill Fishing Season Begins December 1st
- Lobster season runs until March 31st
- Be flexible when planning your day on the water, as winter storms tend to move in fast and sit for days.
- Palm Beach Holiday Boat Show and Fireworks Dec 6th (more info)
- Fort Lauderdale Winter Fest Boat Parade: Dec 13th (more info)
- Miami International Boat Show: Feb 12-16 (more info)
- Manatee Migration: Watch the gentle giants make their way south for the winter. You can see them at a number of locations around the state. (more info)
- Christmas Light Boat Tour: Enjoy a boat tour through the intercostal waterways to see the eclectic assortment of Christmas lights and decorations.
- Water Taxi: Instead of sitting in holiday traffic from all the snowbirds, take the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi to navigate around our illustrious city. (more inf0)
Bonus Tip
- Get Mobile: Rent a boat trailer and go to the Florida Keys or West Coast to enjoy the warm weather and calmer waters. Not to mention the vast amounts of fishing and marine life you can see while there. (more info)
If you have any suggestions for our winter boating tips please let us know by calling (786) 728-9988. We’re always looking for more fun ideas to be out on the water.
Florida Stone Crab Season
The Florida Stone Crab Season Begins Tuesday, October 15th. Get Your Boat’s Trailer Ready
Happy Trailer Rentals is excited about the Stone Crab Season! And why wouldn’t we be? This seasonal, Florida delicacy is Awesome in many ways. Not only is catching them fun, eating them is sublime! Enjoy this light, sweet, and tasty crab meat with your favorite cold beverage and you are truly in for a treat. However, as last year’s harvest numbers were low across Florida we want to make sure that everyone adheres to the “One Claw Rule“. The One Claw Rule suggests that harvesters only remove one claw, instead of two. This unwritten rule of the sea gives the Stone Crabs a higher chance of survival. Statistics show the mortality rate is 47% for doubly-amputated vs. 28% for single amputee crabs So… before your head into the water this season here are a few tips to remember.
What You Need To Know
- No females with eggs
- Recreational fishermen can have a daily bag limit of one gallon of claws per person or two gallons per vessel, whichever is less. I
- only take just one claw from each crab, and then return it to the water, as the claw will grow back over time (12-18 months).
- Stone Crab claws must be at least 2 inches in length in order to keep.
- Unlawful to use any device that can puncture, crush, or injure the crab body, such as spears, grains, grabs, hooks etc.
- A maximum of 5 stone crabs traps per person
Get all the facts about Florida Stone Crab Season by visiting the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, or call us at 786-728-9988
Need a boat trailer for your Stone Crab trip to the Keys or the west coast? Rent one from us today. We have a wide selection available at the lowest rates in town. View Trailers.
Learn the Proper Way to Remove a Florida Stone Crab Claw
Welcome to Happy Trailer Storage
Happy Trailer Rentals
Boat and trailer storage Miami, Florida
Thank you for visiting the Happy Trailer Storage website. Are you looking to store your boat or trailer in Miami, Florida? Look no further. We offer monthly and yearly dry-storage at the lowest rates in town.
Call us today 786-728-9988.