The Department of Planning and Natural Resources reminds the public that the legal harvest size of Caribbean spiny lobster (Panulirus argus) is 3 ½ inches carapace length, as measured in a straight line between large spines protecting the lobster’s eyes to the end of the carapace (shell) where the tail starts.
According to a press release from DPNR, lobsters with a 3 ½ inch carapace length will have had the opportunity to reproduce at least once before reaching harvestable size. Anyone possessing a measuring gauge that has a cutout area that is not 3 ½ inches in length is requested to contact the Division of Fish and Wildlife immediately for the correct measuring gauge. Contact the Division of Fish and Wildlife at 775-6762 on St. Thomas or (340) 773-1082 on St. Croix to request a replacement gauge.
In addition to a size limit of 3 ½ inches carapace length, spiny lobsters must be landed whole and there is no harvest of females with eggs. Spears, hooks, gigs or chemicals may not be used to harvest Caribbean spiny lobsters.
DPNR asks everyone’s cooperation in order to protect the Virgin Islands resources for the present and future benefit of the people of the Virgin Islands.