Lobster fishers across the Maritimes are heading back to the water with renewed optimism. The fall fishing season is officially underway for Lobster Fishing Area 25, which covers the northwestern part of the Northumberland Strait between New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. Crews set out as early as 5 a.m. on Monday to drop their traps. According to a recent report by CBC News, this area supports about 780 fishing enterprises and 3,000 fishers.

Recovering from a Tough Spring

The spring season brought significant challenges to the local industry. Cold weather and strong winds kept boats at the dock and reduced lobster mobility. This resulted in a 20 percent drop in catches. Luc LeBlanc, fisheries advisor at the Maritime Fishermen’s Union, notes that tariffs imposed by China on Canadian seafood also created market volatility. Despite these hurdles, the industry maintains a positive outlook for the fall.

Steady Demand and Rising Costs

Market forecasts look promising. Demand remains strong, particularly in the United States. LeBlanc points out that while lobster is a luxury product, it remains competitive against other proteins like beef and pork, which are also seeing price increases. The Canadian lobster industry also benefits from an exemption from current US tariffs.

“We’ve been pretty lucky that we haven’t been targeted yet, so we’re glad to be under that radar,” LeBlanc told CBC.

However, fishers face mounting operational expenses. The costs for fuel, bait, and labor have nearly doubled over the past five years. These shrinking profit margins ultimately impact the price you pay at the grocery store or restaurant. A decade ago, lobster cost about $5 a pound. Today, you will pay around $9 a pound.

Looking Ahead

The fall season began with perfect weather conditions. Fishers and industry experts will know exactly how the season performs within the first few days of hauling traps. For now, the mood on the water is positive.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the fall lobster season start in New Brunswick?

The fall season for Lobster Fishing Area 25 begins in early August, with fishers setting their traps on opening Monday.

Why were spring lobster catches down?

Spring catches dropped by 20 percent due to cold weather and strong winds, which limited fishing days and reduced lobster movement.

How much does lobster cost per pound?

Currently, lobster costs about $9 a pound, up from roughly $5 a pound ten years ago. This increase reflects the rising costs of fuel, bait, and labor.

Are Canadian lobsters affected by US tariffs?

No. The Canadian lobster industry is currently exempt from US tariffs, helping maintain steady demand across the border.