Time To Buy Lobster | Best

: A fresh live lobster should be active, with a tail that curls tightly when the lobster is lifted. How to Buy Live Lobster: Expert Tips & Checklist

: Once summer tourists leave (after Labor Day), prices remain reasonable until the holiday spike in late December. Winter (January - March) (Most Expensive) : best time to buy lobster

: This is widely considered the absolute best time for quality. Lobsters are at their firmest and meatiest just before the summer molting season begins. : A fresh live lobster should be active,

Choosing the right "shell" is as important as the time of month. Hard-Shell Lobster Soft-Shell (New Shell) Lobster Fall & Winter Mid-Summer Meat Yield High; shells are full Lower; shells contain water Flavor/Texture Firmer bite; classic "lobster" taste Sweeter and more tender Ease of Opening Requires crackers/tools Can often be cracked by hand Shipping Sturdy; best for long-distance delivery Fragile; best for local pickup Tips for Smart Buying Lobsters are at their firmest and meatiest just

: Prices often drop during this period as supply increases but before the peak summer tourist demand kicks in. Late Summer (July - August) (Best for Low Price) :

: Most lobsters caught now are "soft-shells" (newly molted). While the meat is ultra-tender and sweet, the yield is lower because the shells are partially filled with water. Fall (September - November) (Best for Hard-Shells) :