One of the most sustainable fisheries in the world!
For over 100 years, the lobster fishery has been vibrant and strong in many of our coastal communities on
Prince Edward Island. This valuable resource has been the livelihood of PEI fishing families for generations
and they feel a huge sense of pride in their industry.
On PEI, conservation and protection of the lobster resource has long been a priority for Islanders.
Fish harvesters began endorsing management measures many years ago and continue to research
and implement new measures to ensure the sustainability of the resource and their livelihoods.
The following regulations and sustainability practices highlight the strengths of the PEI lobster fishery:
Industry Commitments:
- Long term sustainability plans which have included several lobster license buy-back programs which reduce the amount of fleets and fishing effort on the water.
- Participation in trap reduction programs leading to a reduction in gear (including buoys and rope) on the water and thus reducing the risk of entanglement to marine mammals.
- Enhanced quality programs including specific training and research. This includes the introduction of new “Logtek” lobster crates and tubs.
- Participation in the Post Larval Lobster Settlement Project which collects information on young lobster before they enter the fishery.
- For over 17 years, fish harvesters have participated in the Lobster Index logbook program and the At-Sea Lobster data collection & sampling program. These statistics are useful in tracking trends of lobster populations throughout the fishery and in various areas around PEI.
- Traceability programs ensuring that Prince Edward Island lobster are fished legally, during the regulated season and by registered fish harvesters.
- PEI Fish Harvesters have participated in many research opportunities to improve understanding of their resource including the Lobster Moult & Quality project.
- Each PEI lobster fisher is a member of the PEI Fishermen’s Association, the united voice of Island fishers. The PEIFA consists of six member local associations representing fish harvesters from each wharf on PEI.
- Over 50 volunteer fish harvesters represent their fellow fish harvester’s interests and actively participate in one of the three PEI Lobster Advisory Committees. These committees meet with various other industry players including the Federal Department of Fisheries & Oceans, Provincial Fisheries Department, Aboriginal groups, University & Research participants, etc.