U.S. lobster catch drops as crustaceans migrate to colder Canadian waters

The U.S. lobster industry is facing challenges as the valuable crustaceans continue to migrate northward, leading to a decline in catches. Maine, where the industry is primarily based, has seen a decrease in lobster hauls over the past few years. From a peak of nearly 50 million kilograms in 2021, the catch has steadily decreased to less than 44 million kilograms in 2023 and further dropped to about 39 million kilograms in 2024, marking the lowest figure in 15 years.

Several factors have contributed to this decline, including major storms that damaged waterfront communities and disrupted fisheries. Despite these challenges, Governor Janet Mills commended the industry for its resilience in the face of adversity. She highlighted the economic benefits that the commercial fishermen, aquaculturists, and seafood dealers bring to the state.

Although the 2024 catch was historically low, Maine fishermen still managed to bring in over $528 million at the docks, the highest total since 2021. The demand for lobsters remains high, with prices per pound reaching record levels. Patrick Keliher, the commissioner of the Maine Department of Marine Resources, emphasized the state’s proactive approach to addressing climate change and its impact on the fishing industry.

One of the major concerns facing the lobster industry is the decline in the number of baby lobsters settling off the New England coast. Scientists attribute this trend to the lobsters migrating northward in search of cooler habitats as ocean temperatures rise. Additionally, the industry is closely linked to Canada’s seafood industry, and potential tariffs could disrupt the supply chain and increase prices for consumers on both sides of the border.

Furthermore, the industry faces challenges related to new regulations aimed at protecting critically endangered North Atlantic right whales, which are at risk of entanglement in commercial fishing gear. Fishing groups have been involved in legal battles with the government over stricter fishing rules.

While other states like Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire also have lobster fishing industries, Maine’s industry is the largest and serves as a barometer for the overall health of the American lobster industry. In 2023, Maine accounted for approximately 78% of the country’s total lobster haul.

As the lobster industry navigates these challenges, stakeholders are working to find sustainable solutions to ensure the long-term viability of this iconic and economically significant fishery.