Florida Keys Bully Netting Lobster Charters
Catch Florida Spiny Lobster After Dark
Experience one of the Florida Keys’ most unique nighttime adventures with Hennessy Sportfishing.
Bully netting allows you to search for Florida spiny lobster from the boat—no diving or snorkeling required. Powerful lights illuminate the shallow water while your captain slowly navigates productive lobster areas around Marathon. When a lobster appears, it is time to carefully lower the net and make your catch!
No diving. No scuba gear. Just a fun night on the water.
This trip is limited to 3-4 guest. This trip is run on a 17ft Boston Whaler. Trips start at Sunset. Trips start at $769 with option to extend.
What Is Bully Netting?
Bully netting is a traditional way of catching Florida spiny lobster after dark. A bright light is directed into shallow water from the boat, making it possible to spot lobster moving across the bottom.
Guests use a long-handled bully net to capture legal-sized lobster while remaining aboard the boat. It is an exciting, hands-on experience that can be enjoyed without getting into the water.
What Your Trip Includes
Your captain will provide:
Boat and experienced local captain
Powerful underwater lighting
Bully nets and lobster-measuring equipment
Safety equipment
Cooler space for your legal catch
Guidance on identifying, measuring and safely netting lobster
Guests should bring drinks, snacks, weather-appropriate clothing and any required licenses or permits.
A Great Choice For
Families with older children
Guests who do not want to dive or snorkel
First-time lobster hunters
Experienced lobster enthusiasts
Groups looking for something different to do at night
Visitors who want to bring home fresh Florida Keys lobster
Bully netting requires patience, teamwork and a little luck. Catching a limit is never guaranteed, but the hunt is what makes the experience memorable.
When Is Bully Netting Available?
Florida’s regular recreational spiny lobster season runs from August 6 through March 31. Florida’s 2026 two-day Sport Season is July 29–30.
Trip availability and departure times depend on the season, weather, water conditions and sunset. Because bully netting takes place after dark, departure times will vary throughout the year.
Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially during Sport Season and holiday weeks.
Florida Lobster Regulations
Hennessy Sportfishing follows all current state and federal lobster regulations. During the regular season, the recreational limit is currently six spiny lobster per actively harvesting person per day. A lobster’s carapace must measure more than three inches and must be measured while still in the water.
Egg-bearing lobster must be released, and lobster must be landed whole. Applicable licenses and a lobster permit may be required. Regulations and closed areas can change, so guests should review the current Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulations before their trip.
Your captain will explain measuring and handling procedures before harvesting begins.
Bully Netting Charter Details
Duration: 3 hours with an option to Extend
Boat: 17ft Boston Whaler
Maximum guests: 3-4 Guest
Price: $750
Departure location: Marathon, Florida Keys
Season: August 6–March 31, plus select Sport Season availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we have to get in the water?
No. Bully netting is performed from the boat, so guests do not need to swim, snorkel or dive.
Is experience required?
No. Your captain will demonstrate how to use the net, measure lobster and safely participate.
Are lobster guaranteed?
No. Lobster are wild, and results depend on conditions, location and guest participation. The experience is a hunt, and catch numbers will vary.
Can children participate?
Older children who can safely handle a long net and follow the captain’s instructions may participate. Ask us whether the trip is appropriate for your children when booking.
Do we need fishing licenses?
Licensing requirements can depend on the vessel and the nature of the trip. Hennessy Sportfishing should confirm exactly what guests need before this section is finalized.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The captain makes the final decision based on wind, visibility and overall safety. Unsafe trips may be rescheduled or refunded according to Hennessy Sportfishing’s weather policy.
Pickup Location: This vessel is trailered and may launch from different ramps within the City of Marathon based on weather and water conditions. Your captain will contact you the evening before your trip to confirm the exact pickup location and review your charter details.
