Tickling Lobster [repack]
This is the primary tool. Historically, divers used any stiff rod, like an old antenna or a piece of transparent acrylic (lobsters seem less spooked by clear sticks). Today, they are commercially made from fiberglass, aluminum, or carbon fiber [citation:6].
: During this time, they are incredibly soft and must hide under rocks until the new shell hardens. This life cycle makes them naturally cautious of any touch—the very instinct ticklers exploit.
To perform this correctly, divers use a specific gear setup often regulated by local wildlife agencies: tickling lobster
is a fascinating and often misunderstood term. While the phrase "tickling lobster" might conjure images of someone trying to amuse a marine creature, in the world of fishing and diving, it refers to a highly skilled and sustainable method of hunting. If you are searching for "tickling lobster," you are likely interested in the sport of —specifically, how to catch spiny lobsters using a specialized technique involving a "tickle stick" and a net.
Once the lobster is fully out of the hole and hovering over the net: This is the primary tool
are flight-oriented. They hide deep under ledges or in "potholes" during the day, using their long, spike-covered antennae to detect threats.
: The "tickle" isn't meant to catch the lobster; it’s meant to coax it out of its hole and into the open where it can be safely netted or grabbed by a gloved hand. 2. Tools of the Trade : During this time, they are incredibly soft
Lobsters are sensory-driven creatures. They communicate and navigate their world through chemical and physical cues:
Do not chase the lobster from the front. Approach the hole quietly (lobsters detect vibrations). Place your hoop net at one end of the opening or at the "front door" of the crevice where you want the lobster to exit [citation:4].
: A slender, usually fiberglass or plastic rod with a slight curve at the end. It allows the diver to reach behind the lobster without spooking it with their hands.
For the gourmet, the "tickle" is not merely about the ethics of the kill; it is about the quality of the product.