Maine's Lobster Catch Is Tanking

The US lobster industry, primarily in Maine, is seeing a continued decline in lobster catch. In 2024, the haul was approximately 86.1 million pounds, the lowest in 15 years, down from nearly 111 million pounds in 2021 and less than 97 million pounds in 2023. Despite major storms disrupting fisheries, the industry remains strong with over $528 million in revenue, the highest since 2021. Demand for lobster remains high, and prices per pound are near record highs.

"During a year shaped by unprecedented storms and damage to our working waterfronts, Maine's commercial fishermen, aquaculturists, and seafood dealers once again delivered a major economic benefit to our state," said Gov. Janet Mills. Patrick Keliher, commissioner of the Maine Department of Marine Resources, noted efforts to rebuild coastal infrastructure and address climate change impacts. The lobster population is migrating north due to warming oceans, impacting baby lobster settlement critical for the future.

Maine's industry, accounting for 78% of the US lobster catch in 2023, faces additional hurdles. New tariffs linked to Canada could increase prices, as Canada is integral to processing. Environmental threats include potential new rules to protect North Atlantic right whales, leading to legal battles with fishing groups. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)