5 Things I Never Knew About Maine Lobstermen

Lobstermen have such a unique job and an important one too!

Lobstering is truly one of the things that is in the blood of Maine. It's a culture and industry that someone in Kansas would have no clue how it's done. But there are some things about lobstermen in Maine (and women!) that I never knew.

Maine Lobstermen Have a Code of Ethics

Lobstermen have formal and informal, yet deeply respected, codes of ethics. This includes respecting each other's traps, following sustainable fishing practices, and protecting the livelihood of their peers. Good lobstermen (and women) never waver from this code of ethics.

Lobster Boats Are Custom-Built

Many lobstermen in Maine have their boats custom-built for specific needs, such as hauling traps efficiently. The boats are often designed with high sides, a powerful engine, and a layout that accommodates a big crew.

The "Ghost Trap" Problem

READ MORE: Travel Site Says This is The Best Place to Grab Lobster in Maine

Abandoned lobster traps that still catch lobsters, even though they are no longer actively being used, are a major environmental concern. These "ghost traps" can endanger marine life, and lobstermen are actively involved in efforts to remove them.

Lobster Bait Is a Trade Secret

While lobsters are typically baited with herring, the exact composition and recipe for the bait can vary from boat to boat. Some lobstermen swear by specific combinations of fish, and they guard their bait recipes as closely as trade secrets.

The oldest lobsterman is a woman!

Maine’s beloved “Lobster Lady” turned 104 in June of 2024. Virginia “Ginny” Oliver is the oldest lobster trapper in Maine, according to WGME. She started catching lobsters off the coast of Rockland when she was a little girl and has no plans of retiring. She has a book written after her called 'The Lobster Lady: Maine's 102-Year-Old Legend'. Looks like it's gonna need an update!

Lobstering is such a vital part of Maine, and I do my best year round to support the hard working men and women by eating as much lobster as possible!