This is one of those locations you have driven by 50 times and
never stopped. What you are looking at is a Florida Lobster. Anyone
who has went lobster diving knows they call these creatures "bugs".
To catch a lobster by hand in Florida, it is very simple! You
get a "tickle stick", a net and a pair of gloves (along with your
snorkel equipment of course)and dive down to a rocky or reef area.
You can spot a Florida Lobster easily by looking for it's long
antennae sticking out (don't worry, they are harmless).
You slowly stick your tickle stick behind its tail and tap it on
the end of the tail lightly. The Lobster reluctantly walks out of
its hiding space right at you. You calmly place the net BEHIND the
tail (this is the direction the take off when startled) and either
tap it in the front or flop your net down on top of it.
Hang on for the ride of your life! Just kidding, they just flip
around and make a creepy scratching noise. Grab the lobster through
the net, measure with the handy measuring tool attached to tickle
stick BEFORE bringing out of the water!
My FAVORITE way to cook: After removing tail, be sure to break
off the last 4 inches of one antennae. This is used to put (thick
end first) up the hole located at the end of the tail and pull out
the unpleasantness! Cut the soft side of the tail from one end to
other. Wrap in foil after putting on tablespoon of butter and your
favorite seasonings. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Enjoy!
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