Need packing advice for lobster tackle

[DebbyDiver]

Aloha! We are packing for our big move to Hawai'i. I'm hoping you can shed some light on lobstering legalities. In Florida, where I used to live, and now in the Caribbean, it is perfectly legal to use a noose, or a tickle stick, to catch lobsters. Is it legal to use these devices in Hawai'i, or should we gift them to local friends and save on shipping?

 

[friscuba]

I could be wrong, but I'm pretty sure its gloves only, no females, size restrictions and months with an "r" only.

 

[diversteve]

It's probably in here somewhere: Division of Aquatic Resources

 

[DebbyDiver]

Already checked out that link, it says no spearing, but it says nothing about snares or tickle sticks or catching by hand, that's why I need locals' advice.

 

[spoolin01]

I'm not a local but always keep an eye out for lobster when I'm there. I've read through the very minimal regs many times and don't recall seeing any prohibition against using tools, just not spears. Don't leave your biggest pot behind!!

 

[DiveWestOahu]

take by hand only, size limits, female w/egg no take and seasonal, all found in fishing regulations

 

[spoolin01]

Nothing that I see under species, regs, or gear regulations that says anything other than no spearing. Can you link to the restriction?

 

[DebbyDiver]

take by hand only, size limits, female w/egg no take and seasonal, all found in fishing regulations

Nothing that I see under species, regs, or gear regulations that says anything other than no spearing. Can you link to the restriction?

Yes please, link to the regulations. I too have studied them and don't see any "take by hand only" regulations.

No taking females with eggs is just common sense (as well as the law), and of course we adhere to seasons as well, but...that does not answer my question about snares and tickle sticks.

 

[rgbmatt]

Don't think that nooses are illegal, but I've never heard of anybody using them. Most people just grab them by hand. Personally I wouldn't use one, since in my imagination it might mess up the eggs if you catch a pregnant female by mistake. Obviously there's no law against diving with a stick.

However, except in certain remote locations, the lobster population in Hawaii isn't doing so good. Slipper lobsters are pretty common, but spinies have been getting more scarce by the year. Please be selective and only take what you need, even if it's legal.

 

[DebbyDiver]

Preachin' to the choir, Matt. We've been conservative hunters for more than 30 years (more than 60 if you combine our experience...)

Nooses are a very safe way to catch bugs without damaging the eggs or other body parts. Grabbing by hand can break antennae or legs off.

It seems nobody actually knows the answer to this...before we pack (we still have 3+ weeks) I guess I'll just call the Dept. of Natural Resources or whatever you call it there. :blinking: