Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Maine Lobster Catch Plummets Amid Rising Costs and Warming Seas

3/6/2026

34 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Maine's lobster catch declined for the fourth year, from over 110 million pounds in 2021 to 78.8 million in 2025.
The drop stems from rising costs, inflation, and warming seas pushing lobsters toward Canadian waters.
In 2024, the industry logged over 21,000 fewer fishing trips, totaling a loss of more than $75 million.
Still, last year's catch exceeded historical averages, with lobster prices in markets near $5.85 per pound.

1 of 1

Story summary

Maine's lobster catch declined for the fourth year, from over 110 million pounds in 2021 to 78.8 million in 2025.
The drop stems from rising costs, inflation, and warming seas pushing lobsters toward Canadian waters.
In 2024, the industry logged over 21,000 fewer fishing trips, totaling a loss of more than $75 million.
Still, last year's catch exceeded historical averages, with lobster prices in markets near $5.85 per pound.