Lobster fishing in South Bristol, Maine, United States.
Photo: Adobe Stock.
Maine's fishing industry experienced a significant economic boost in 2024, with total landings valued at $709,509,984, an increase of more than $74 million from the previous year, according to data released by the Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR).
“During a year shaped by unprecedented storms and damage to our working waterfronts, Maine’s commercial fishermen, aquaculturists, and seafood dealers once again delivered a major economic benefit to our state,” said Maine Governor Janet Mills, in a press release. “They did so through hard work and their time-honored commitment to producing and delivering the best seafood in the world.”
Maine’s lobster industry played a crucial role in the increase, with lobster fishers earning $528,421,645 in landings, up by more than $46 million year-on-year, accounting for the most valuable fishery in 2024.
This increase in earnings was achieved despite a decline in total lobster catch by more than 10 million pounds. According to Mills, the high boat price of $6.14 per pound - one of the highest on record - helped offset the reduced catch volume.
The second-most valuable fishery in Maine was that of softshell clams, generating $15,461,017, followed by oysters, which brought in $14,852,101, driven by an eleven-cent per pound increase for harvesters, according to DMR.
“Maine’s softshell clam fishery continues to be one of the most lucrative and in 2024 DMR began several projects to improve management of this important resource,” said DMR Commissioner Patrick Keliher. “DMR conducted programs to train municipal marine resource officials, held informational meetings, and provided mini grants to support municipal shellfish management and conservation work.”
Despite the economic gains, 2024 was not without challenges. Severe storms damaged docks and piers along the Maine coast, threatening the livelihoods of those who depend on the sea.
“2024 was a challenging year for Maine’s commercial fishing and aquaculture industries,” Keliher said.
“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,” Keliher added.
