bugs around Naples?

[scooba doo]

Im going to be diving the marco island/naples area the last weekends in march. i was wondering 1: is lobster season still open and 2: is there any good bug hunting around that area. if not... where are there any good spots with in reasonable(2hr) drive?
thanks

dan

 

[Drocfish]

I got bugs during the last week of February in the Gaviota/Tajiguas area. The vis was the best its been in months. There were lots of barely sublegals around. I managed to get 10 legals in 6 dives, and measured about 30 clickers which I released. The storms have been rolling through lately, and I don't see the vis getting too good for the rest of the season, which is till March 22nd FYI. If the ocean calms down a little, it is worth a look though even if the vis is 5-10. I got most of my legals in only 15-20 feet of water.

 

[Drocfish]

Sorry, I don't even know if you are talking about California or Florida. My report is for California.

 

[Johnoly]

1: is lobster season still open

Friday March 31st at Midnite is the close of the season

2: is there any good bug hunting around that area.

Maybe a very long shot on some shovel noses, but overall answer is no.

where are there any good spots with in reasonable(2hr) drive?

You should be able to cross over on Alligator alley and get to Pompano/Ft.Laud in 2hrs and some change depending on where where you start from. Lots and lots of good boats in that area that can put you on bugs. If you're good, you should be able to catch your limit (6) in a day trip.

If your next question is " Who's a good boat to use?" There are tons and tons, but I'll let others chime in on their favorites. But alot of boats are already booked for Friday March 31st, so call early. Don't forget your license also.