The 2014 Maine lobster fishing season is well into the summer months. In late June, lobstermen are able to enjoy some of the longest, lightest days of the year which helps take the sting out of those early morning starts (which are anywhere from 3am to 5am).
Along with striking sunrises and luminous skies, Maine fishermen are often able to enjoy a rise in the price they get paid for their lobster as well. As the Fourth of July approaches, demand increases and the boat price tends to creep up a bit. That has been the case this June. Last week the price of lobster jumped by 75 cents in some parts of Maine. In Cutler, the boat price for run lobsters (average-sized lobster) is $4.25. The boat price for select lobsters (those weighing in at 4 pounds or more) is $4.75.
Any boat price over the $4 mark is good for Maine fishermen.
Sadly, this good boat price is destined to drop as soon as the shedders (new shell lobsters) hit in July. While superior in flavor, new shell lobsters are extremely fragile which limits their distribution and value. Most of these succulent lobsters end up in restaurants along the coast of Maine or in processing plants where they are transformed into fillings for lobster rolls, raviolis, stews and more.
My father has only caught a handful of shedders thus far this season. He doesn't anticipate the full shedder run will happen for at least a few more weeks. In the meantime, Maine fishermen can enjoy the good prices, the Forth of July and the lobster boat racing season.
To read more recent updates on the Maine lobster fishing season, click here.
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