In just a little over a week, the Maine fishing community will gather once again at the Samoset Resort for the 50th annual Maine Fishermen’s Forum.
This milestone event runs from February 27 to March 1, packed with special programming, industry discussions, and New England's largest marine-focused trade show.
A Look Back at 50 Years
To celebrate half a century of the Forum, attendees can take a trip down memory lane with a historic fishing slideshow presented by the Penobscot Marine Museum and exclusive 50th-anniversary merchandise. A dedicated seminar series will reflect on the Forum’s history, shown in a special 50th-anniversary video premiere on Saturday at 7:45 p.m.
Seminars and Discussions for Every Sector
This year’s schedule is as packed as ever, featuring many topics critical to Maine’s commercial fishing industry.
- Thursday: Shellfish Focus Day with all-day seminars.
- Friday: A packed agenda, including federal fisheries updates, economic and market discussions, a DMR briefing on North Atlantic right whale monitoring, and the 71st Annual Meeting of the Maine Lobstermen’s Association. A special session will highlight the Forum’s 50-year legacy.
- Saturday: Sessions on industry markets and support, safety at sea, and the next generation of fishermen, along with various association meetings in the Golf Clubhouse.
New England’s Largest Marine Trade Show
With 120 exhibitors, the Forum’s trade show provides a vital opportunity for fishermen, gear suppliers, and industry professionals to connect. Exhibitor hours are:
- Thursday: 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Health and Safety Resources for Fishermen
This year, the Forum is introducing the Healthy Fishermen Room in the Penbay Room, offering free health screenings for glucose, cholesterol, blood pressure, hearing, vision, and skin cancer. Additional resources include health insurance navigation, smoking cessation support, Narcan distribution, and Maine Fish-Ability services for safe working practices.
For those looking to obtain or renew CPR and First Aid certification, a Coast Guard-approved ASHI CPR & First Aid Training will take place on Thursday from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Registration is required, with a $50 fee.
Bringing Fishing Families Together
The Forum’s annual scholarship program continues to support students from fishing families, with funds raised through donations from attendees, fishermen, and industry organizations. Scholarships will be awarded on Saturday, March 1st, and applications are still being accepted until February 21st.
The Forum isn’t just for industry professionals; there’s a lineup of activities for kids and teens, including games, movies, arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, and more. Daytime activities are free, while optional bag lunches are available for $10 on Friday and Saturday. Kids’ Night Out, which includes dinner and a movie, is also available for $10, but spots are limited to 15 children.
While Friday’s Fish Dinner and Saturday’s Banquet have sold out, tickets are still available for Thursday’s Seafood Reception, offering one last chance to enjoy fresh Maine seafood among fellow fishermen.
With a full slate of events, valuable networking opportunities, and a celebration of 50 years of industry collaboration, the Maine Fishermen’s Forum remains a must-attend event for New England’s fishing community.
