When Is Maine Lobster Fishing Season and When is the Best Time to Catch Lobsters?

When Is Maine Lobster Fishing Season and When is the Best Time to Catch Lobsters?

Maine lobster is a prized delicacy enjoyed all over the world for its sweet and succulent flavor. However, not many people are aware that there is a specific lobster fishing season in Maine, and that the best time to catch lobsters is not year-round. In this article, we'll explore the ins and outs of Maine lobster fishing season, and the best time to catch lobsters.

To start, it's important to understand the life cycle of lobsters. Lobsters mate during the summer months, and the females carry the eggs under their tails for about nine to eleven months before releasing them into the ocean. The baby lobsters, known as larvae, will then float on the ocean currents for several months before settling on the ocean floor.

Once the larvae have settled on the ocean floor, they will molt, or shed their shells, several times over the course of several years until they reach maturity. It takes about five to seven years for lobsters to reach maturity and be caught, which is why fishing for lobsters is regulated in Maine.

Maine is known for its sustainable lobster fishing practices, which are regulated by the state to protect the lobster population. The lobster fishing season in Maine typically runs from late November to late June, with a mandatory two-month closure from September to October. During the lobster fishing season, licensed fishermen are only allowed to catch lobsters that meet certain size requirements, which are regulated to ensure that lobsters are caught at the right time in their life cycle. This helps to maintain a healthy lobster population and ensures that lobsters are caught at the peak of their flavor.

The best time to catch lobsters in Maine is during the summer and fall months, which is when lobsters are most active and are actively feeding. The months of July and August are generally considered the peak lobster fishing season in Maine, as this is when the lobsters are most abundant and the waters are warmest. During these months, lobstermen will set their traps in shallow waters where the lobsters are known to feed. The traps will be baited with dead fish, like red fish, monk fish, mackerel, tuna fish heads, or pogies. 

Tips for Catching Lobsters in Maine

If you're planning to catch lobsters in Maine, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure that you have the appropriate license and permits, as lobster fishing is regulated in Maine. You should also be familiar with the lobster fishing regulations, such as size requirements and trap placement.

When setting your traps, make sure to place them in shallow waters where the lobsters are known to feed. Bait your traps with fish or other bait, and then leave them for a few days before checking them. When you collect your lobsters, handle them carefully to avoid injury to yourself or the lobster.

Maine lobster fishing season is an important time for lobstermen and seafood lovers alike. By understanding the life cycle of lobsters, the regulations in place, and the best time to catch lobsters, you can enjoy this delicious seafood at its peak flavor. So, grab your traps and head to Maine during the summer months to experience the thrill of catching your own lobster.