Get ready for the ultimate Lobster Mini Season tradition! The 2026 Lobster Showdown returns to Captain Hook’s in Marathon on July 29–30, 2026 with two days of lobster hunting, weigh-ins, raffles, and live music. Whether you’re competing for the biggest bug or just soaking up the party vibes with DJ Homer, this family-friendly event is free, fun, and open to all ages.
Event Overview
- Captain Hook’s Lobster Showdown is the Florida Keys’ favorite way to kick off lobster mini-season including two days of friendly competition, prizes, and dockside party energy in the heart of Marathon. Presented by co- sponsor Sherry Mfg. Co., it’s free, open to all ages, and built for everyone from serious bug-hunters to families coming out for the fun.
- Bring your biggest catch to the weigh-in and compete across three divisions for the heaviest spiny lobsters. Stick around for daily raffles and giveaways, the can’t-miss Sneak Raffle, and music all day long with DJ Homer on the decks. We’re also running raffles to support the Tunnel to Towers Foundation so every bit of the fun gives back.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | July 29–30, 2026 |
| Weigh-in Times | 10 AM–4 PM (Wed & Thu) |
| Divisions | Overall / Teen / Junior |
| Raffles & Giveaways | Sneak Raffle Wed, daily giveaways |
| Entertainment | DJ Homer |
Schedule & Activities
- Weigh-Ins:
- Dates: Wednesday & Thursday (July 29–30)
- Time: 10 AM–4 PM
- Sneak Raffle:
- Some prizes you can see coming. This one’s locked in the captain’s chest and we’re not breathing a word about what’s inside. All we’ll say? It’s big, and it’s worth showing up for. Here’s what we can tell you: the reveal happens on Day 1, Wednesday, July 29, announced on our Facebook page. And the golden rule of the Sneak Raffle, you’ve got to be present to win it. Not present, no prize. So keep your eyes on Captain Hook’s Facebook the morning of July 29. When we drop the announcement, you’ll want to already be on the dock at that time.
- DJ Party: DJ Homer Spins the Showdown
- The party’s on and DJ Homer is bringing the heat all the way from Miami to make it happen. He’ll be on site both days of the Showdown, Wednesday and Thursday, keeping the music rolling and the dock vibes high throughout the day.
- DJ Homer is more than the soundtrack. He’s our Master of Ceremonies, calling the action all weekend, announcing the weigh-in results, hyping up the division winners, and pulling the tickets when it’s time for the prizes and raffles. When the big moments hit, his voice is the one you’ll hear. Good music, cold drinks, fresh lobster talk, and a Keys party atmosphere all day long. Come for the weigh-in, stay for the show.
Contest Divisions
Prizes awarded for first, second & third largest spiny lobsters (by weight). One prize per person. If an entrant wins Overall, the next largest lobster in the division earns that prize:
- Overall Division: All-ages category
- Teen Division: Ages 13–17
- Junior Division: 12 & under
Extras
- Daily raffles and giveaways
- Free event with a festive atmosphere and live DJ
Want to Participate, But Don’t Have a Boat? Book a Lobster Charter!
If you want to participate in the tournament, but don’t have a boat or a place to go lobstering, you can book a Lobster Charter to get in on the action.
- Marathon: Call 305-743-2444 to book
- Key West: Book your Key West Lobster charter