Aha, those lovely crustaceans! June 15th marks the official opening of the 2015 Lobster Season . For many of us Belizeans and visitors to our jewel, especially around our coastal communities, grilled lobster, lobster kebabs, lobster dip or a lobster ceviche and even lobster ice cream is something they look forward to from June 15th to February 14th. There is no need to punish those taste buds any longer, as the Fisheries Department has officially declared the 2015/2016 Lobster Season open yesterday June 15th. Scientifically known as Panulirus Argus, the Caribbean Spiny Lobster is the only lobster that is regulated in Belize.
Because lobster, like conch, is considered commercial species, a fisherman's license is needed to engaging in the catching of Caribbean Spiny Lobster.
While the season is open, the Fishery Department will still be monitoring for undersize lobster. To crack down on the catching of undersized lobster, the Fisheries Department will be using two ways to determine the lobster size; one for whole lobster and the other for the tail only. In the case of the whole lobster, Hall explained that the vernier caliper (from center of eye to the starting of the tail) carapace must measure three inches or more. When it's only lobster tails, it must weigh four ounces or more to be considered legal for consumption.
"Holders (including restaurants) of lobster below the legal size, if caught, can be charged for being in possession of undersize lobster. That charge carries a fine of up to $500 and a penalty. The penalty depends on the magistrate, but ranges between $20 and $30 for each undersize tail or whole lobster," explained Hall. A similar charge, fine and penalty apply for being in possession of lobster out of season.
Most of the Belize lobster product is exported to United States of America. It contributes tens of millions of dollars to our Belizean economy.
Follow the different LOBSTER FESTIVALS to be held starting this coming weekend in Placencia and following with San Pedro and Caye Caulker. Enjoy!
Photos: Nestor Rivero Jun 15 (San Pedro fisher folk)
LOBSTER, IT'S WHAT'S FOR DINNER~~Nothing better than a day out with for a Lobster and Fish BBQ. Friend, Food Good Times and Adventure....Gear up! Let's Go!
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