Lobster season closed; Hefty Fines to protect industry

By Dana Malcolm  

Staff Writer  

 
#TurksandCaicos, April 3, 2023 – Lobster Season in the Turks and Caicos is now officially closed and while it means you may miss out on Lobster Mac and Surf & Turf and Cracked lobster, it’s for good reason that fisheries presses pause on fishing for the delicacy.

The closed season coincides with the breeding season for the top fisheries export of the Turks and Caicos, allowing the spiny lobster population to be replenished so there is always enough to go around when the season re-opens in March.

Uniquely, even storage of lobster is illegal for the Turks and Caicos during the closed season.  The fine for any breach by fisherman, civilians, or restaurants is $5,000 dollars or six-months in prison or both.