We hear it all the time from fishing companies who aim to fish responsibly and sustainably. But what exactly does that mean? Shoplobster will explain it all Sustainable fishing practices refers to using selective methods to respect marine ecosystems and consciously adapt to reflect changes in the reproductive rate of fish and other ocean animals in order to maintain a balance that will in turn lead to healthy survival rates of all species. Sustainable fishing methods avoid the capture of endangered species as well as those with no commercial value. Lobster fishing is no different.
When it comes to lobster fishing and harvesting, the goal is to do so proper levels of lobster populations are maintained. Maine is known for its lobster fishing operations. For over 100 years, lobstermen of Maine have been practicing sustainable fishing to care not only for the local community but to keep lobster populations thriving. The long term goal of sustainable lobster fishing in Maine is to maintain healthy lobster populations now so there will be future generations of healthy lobster to come.
Lobster fishing is one of the most important industries in Maine. Demand for Maine lobster is not only local, but worldwide. Sustaining healthy lobster populations is essential for this particular industry to stay afloat. The fishermen we’ve partnered with at ShopLobster know just how important healthy lobster populations are to their livelihood, which is why they will do just about anything to ensure they are adhering to the strict laws and regulations set in place.
The rules and regulations set in place for lobster fishing are to ensure that populations aren’t fished down to levels so low, reproduction rates can’t catch up. With laws regarding how many lobsters are caught, the seasons in which they can be caught, and size restrictions, we can help guarantee that lobster growth rates fall in line with harvests.
As far as who is able to fish and harvest lobsters, the state of Maine doesn’t hand out licenses to just anyone. As a matter of fact, there is a waiting list to receive a lobster fishing license. By regulating the number of fishermen in Maine, the state can directly control how many lobsters are caught. Lobstering is a limited-entry fishery, one in which you need to complete an apprenticeship or be grandfathered in as a descendant fisherman. When do spots open? Available lobster fishing licenses only become available after a current fisherman retires or does not renew his license; no more are awarded in a direct effort to keep lobster populations in check.
At ShopLobster we take pride in the products we offer, as we aim to change the world’s understanding of conservation and sustainability within the lobster fishing industry. All of our lobsters are sourced from Maine lobstermen who make sure their lobster fishing practices are as safe and sustainable as possible. Our goal is not only to support healthy ecosystems and the lobster populations, but to support local fishermen both on and offshore. Check out ShopLobster today for more information regarding our sustainable fishing practices and to explore the products we have to offer.
