Most size limit regulations implemented by the Florida Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission (FWC) use either Fork Length or Total Length
Fork Length Measurement
Fish regulated by fork length are measured from the tip of the jaw
or tip of the snout with closed mouth to the center of the fork in the tail.
Total Length Measurement
Fish regulated by total length are measured from the tip of the jaw
or tip of the snout with closed mouth to the farthest tip of the tail with the tail compressed.
How to Measure Stone Crab and Spiny Lobster
Stone Crab Measurement
Stone Crab claws must measure at least 2 3/4-inches in length measured
by a straight line from the elbow to the tip of the lower immovable finger. The forearm (propodus) shall be deemed
to be the largest section of the claw assembly that has both a moveable and immovable finger and is located farthest
from the body of the crab.
Spiny Lobster Measurement
Spiny Lobster must have a minimum carapace length of greater than
3-inches and the measurement must take place in the water. The carapace is measured beginning at the forward edge
between the rostral horns, excluding and soft tissue, and proceeding along the middle to the rear edge of the carapace.
Information Provided By The
Florida Fish And Wildlife Conservation Commission