Strong Lobster Season Due to Price

Lobstermen earned $46 million more in 2024 than they had in 2023. Price per pound last year was $6.14; the value of lobster landed reached $528,421,645 despite a catch that declined by greater than 10 million pounds, dropping to 86,125,724 pounds. 2016 was the peak for Maine lobster landings, when 132,604,691 pounds were harvested.

Maine’s softshell clam fishery was the state’s second most valuable in 2024 at $15,461,017, with harvesters earning $58,971 more than in 2023. Oysters were once again in high demand in 2024, earning growers and harvesters $14,852,101, which placed the fishery as Maine’s third most valuable.

Menhaden earned Maine fishermen $13,203,602 at the dock, ranking it as Maine’s fourth most valuable fishery.

Maine elver harvesters earned $12,201,545, ranking it Maine’s fifth most valuable as a result of a $1,239 per pound price paid to fishermen.  

“2024 was a challenging year for Maine’s commercial fishing and aquaculture industries,” said Commissioner Keliher. “The storms that destroyed docks and piers up and down the coast put these industries at serious risk. But thanks to Governor Mills’ success in securing funding, the state has been able help rebuild damaged coastal infrastructure, make it more resilient to the effects of climate change, and protect critically important waterfront access for those who make a living on the water,” said Keliher.