Lobster Mini-Season Tips from Capt. Ned Stone

24 Jul 20133:07 AM

By Sue Cocking, Guy Harvey Outpost Travel Journalist

Surviving Lobster Fever?

Many of us have been chomping at the bit to get some BUGS… For those of us who love to dive and love lobster we wait all year for “Mini-Season.” Some divers “Are on a mission.” In “Mission” mode we sometimes lose sight of other priorities. No lobster is worth someone’s life or injury. Please dive safely. Please drive safely; the diver you save could be me.

Here are a few basic safety tips:

Double check your gear before you leave the house. Double check your VHF radio.

Use your Diver Down flag. Better still use a really BIG FLAG or THREE. Remember the other guy is an idiot. Make your divers and snorkelers take floating dive flags with them.

If you have lots of snorkelers keep a lookout in the boat with an air horn to ward off unwary boaters. There are plenty of clueless boaters who have no idea it is Lobster Season nor what that funny red flag means.

Bring a first aid kit.

Bring a thermos of hot water (not scalding) for stings.

Bring spare O-rings, snorkels, fin and mask straps.

Bring water and stay hydrated.

BONUS LOSBTER, Want 33% more lobster? Eat the sweet meat in the legs and antennas. Cook them separately in a steamer; pull them out as soon as they change color. Add some melted butter and your appetizers are ready. You will be surprised how much meat is hidden here. It takes a bit more work but it is worth it once you get the knack.