For the first time in over a decade, Maine fishermen will return to the water in pursuit of northern shrimp, marking a cautious revival of a long-cherished winter fishery.

The experimental shrimp season, scheduled to begin in February, is part of a research initiative by the Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR) in collaboration with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC). This limited program aims to gather crucial data on the shrimp population and assess the species’ recovery after years of decline caused by warming waters in the Gulf of Maine.

Seven fishermen were selected from more than 40 applicants to participate in the program. Four will fish using trawls—Justin Libby of Port Clyde, Dana Hammond II and David Osier of South Bristol, and Robert Tetrault II of Portland—while three, Adam Gamage and Andrew House of South Bristol and William McLain of Pemaquid, will use traps. According to DMR, each fisherman has been assigned to one of three fishing zones: Kittery to Phippsburg, Phippsburg to Owls Head, or east of Owls Head.

This research-oriented effort caps the total allowable catch at 58,400 pounds, a stark contrast to the more than 10 million pounds of shrimp landed annually before the fishery’s closure in 2013. Individual fishermen are limited to one fishing day per week, with a maximum haul of 1,200 pounds each week.

Among the participants is Justin Libby, a Port Clyde shrimper with decades of experience. Libby plans to fish east of Owls Head on his 50-foot trawler, the Captain Lee. While he acknowledged the challenge of limited fishing days, Libby remains optimistic about the season. “I’m optimistic,” he told Bangor Daily News. “And if they’re out there, I’ll catch them.”

David Osier of South Bristol also expressed excitement about returning to shrimping, a fishery he remembers fondly. Osier, now a groundfisherman, recalled the once-bustling wharves during past shrimping seasons and anticipates that the rarity of Maine shrimp may command high dockside prices—potentially $10 to $12 per pound.

New England Fishermen's Stewardship Association (NEFSA) CEO Jerry Leeman shared, “It is in the best interest of all fishermen to come together and help with this data collection for a greater understanding of the resource. We extend our thanks to ASMFC and to all the fisheries participants who had their hand in this task. You are all true stewards of our waters and champions of your industries."

While the reopening is a positive step, it comes with financial risks for the fishermen involved. There is no state or federal funding to help participants offset potential losses, and it remains uncertain how the market will respond to the return of Maine shrimp after a ten-year hiatus. The primary goal of the program, however, is scientific: to collect data on the abundance, size, and distribution of northern shrimp. This information will guide future management decisions and could pave the way for a broader reopening of the fishery.

The limited reopening shows the state's commitment to balancing conservation with the community fishing tradition. This season represents more than just an opportunity to fish for the fishermen chosen to participate. It’s a chance to revive a cherished part of Maine’s heritage while working toward a sustainable future for northern shrimp.

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Carli is a Content Specialist for National Fisherman. She comes from a fourth-generation fishing family off the coast of Maine. Her background consists of growing her own business within the marine community. She resides on one of the islands off the coast of Maine while also supporting the lobster community she grew up in.

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