Stone crab season in Key West: when it opens and what to know
By Brian Williamson, Key West · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
Florida's stone crab season opens October 15, 2026 and runs through May 1, 2027. The closed season is May 2 to October 14. The opening lands right before Fantasy Fest (October 16 to 25), so expect a busy week on the island.
Season dates
Stone crab season dates are set by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC): open October 15, 2026 through May 1, 2027, closed May 2 to October 14.
If you're visiting this fall
The opening falls the day before Fantasy Fest starts on October 16. Florida spiny lobster regular season is also open (August 6, 2026 to March 31, 2027, per FWC).
Harvesting your own
We haven't verified size, trap, bag-limit or license rules, so we don't list them here. If you plan to harvest, read the current rules on the FWC stone crab page first.
Common questions
When does stone crab season start in Florida?
October 15, 2026.
When does it end?
May 1, 2027.
Is stone crab open in October in Key West?
Yes, from October 15.
Sources
Prices, schedules and rules change; confirm with the operator before you book. We may earn a commission when you book through our links.
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