Divers take most of the lobsters in the recreational fishery. Some commercial passenger fishing vessels schedule special recreational dive trips during lobster season. The total recreational take of spiny lobster is unknown. Recreational fishery management measures that protect this resource include:
• A size limit of 3.25 in. CL. The minimum size limit ensures that there will be several year-classes of younger broodstock, even if all legal-size lobsters are caught each season.
• The recreational fishery for lobster runs from early October through mid- March, same as the commercial season. The closed season protects egg- carrying females and molting lobsters.
• Recreational fishermen must possess a valid sport-fishing license with an ocean enhancement stamp.
• Skin and scuba divers may only use bare (or gloved) hands to take lobster. No fish spears, short hooked poles, or similar appliances may be used to remove lobsters from crevices and caves. Baited hoop nets may also be used to take lobster. South of Point Arguello (Santa Barbara County) no more than five hoop nets may be fished per person, and no more than 10 may be fished from any boat.
• Divers may take seven lobsters per day (reduced from 10 lobsters in 1971). • Some marine reserves and conservation areas prohibit the take of lobster.