Spiny Lobster

California spiny lobster occur throughout central and southern California from Monterey to Baja California, being most abundant south of Point Conception. They inhabit rock reef areas and kelp beds at depths up to 240 feet. Adults are reddish-orange and weigh an average of two pounds. They lack the large claws that North American East Coast lobster have, but have large, powerful tails and shells lined with spiny projections. Lobsters grow by molting: shedding their shells and then slowly hardening new, soft shells. Spiny lobsters mate between November and May, and females produce one batch of eggs each year. They are largely omnivorous and consume a wide range of prey including algae, invertebrates and fishes. Natural predators include sheephead, cabezon, moray eels and various sharks.

Overall availability

California spiny lobster is available seasonally in California. They are generally available in the fall and winter. California spiny lobster are typically sold as a live product. 

Management

California spiny lobster is fished using trap gear. This fishery is managed through a Fisheries Management Plan by California Department of Fish and Wildlife.