Lobster fishing season is coming to a close in LFA’s 33 and 34.
Today is the last day in the season. It was a season of record prices according to the executive director of the Brazil Rock 33/34 Lobster Association, Dan Fleck.
He says prices reached over $17 and discussed where they are at the close of the season.
“I would say $10. There are certain deals where people might be offered more in certain areas but we’re looking between $10 and $11 for a closing price in LFA 33 and 34.”
Fleck is looking back on the season. While it was marked by rising fuel costs, he says it was also very safe.
Fleck says the price of fuel is up at least 150% since the start of the season and it’s affected some of the ways the captains fish.
“The boats might not be run at the highest RPM’s, the trips might not be made as frequently,” “You have to take into consideration the catch versus the cost of bait and the cost of fuel. Should they go every second day? every third day?”
He adds they are also still dealing with concerns over bait. With the mackerel fishery closed and reductions in the herring quota, they are looking for other sources of bait including using crab.
Fleck says they are also seeking exemptions from protective measures for North Atlantic Right Whales, saying they are not present in LFA’s 33 and 34 during the season.
