For the first time in a decade, Maine shrimp is set to return to the Gulf of Maine, however, in limited amounts. As reported by News Center Maine, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) has authorized a winter sampling program, allowing the catch of up to 58,400 pounds to gather data on the struggling species. The program, running from late January to March 2025, aims to monitor the status of this cold-water species.

Fishermen and researchers alike hope the data will shed light on whether the fishery could reopen. However, as National Fisherman contributor Paul Molyneaux noted in an April 2024 article, the challenges are immense. Glen Libby, a long-time advocate for the shrimp fishery, believes using industry-driven data collection tools like vessel monitoring systems, onboard cameras, and dockside checks could provide a clearer picture of shrimp stocks.

“It would give you a much better picture of stock status than using traditional survey vessels,” Libby explained, highlighting the need for accurate data collection methods.

While the ASMFC remains cautious, citing a "strong decline starting in 2009," Chelsea Tuohy, a policy analyst with the commission, acknowledged the need to collaborate with industry leaders to ensure effective monitoring. As Tuohy told Molyneaux, “The shrimp technical committee is looking at what a viable project would need and (develop) a budget.”

Efforts to revitalize the fishery face hurdles tied to warming water temperatures and increased predation, factors identified by Katie Drew, an ASMFC data analyst. Drew emphasized the complexity of environmental changes, stating, “Back in the 1990s, when things were good for shrimp, water temperatures were low, and there was low predation.”

Still, for fishing communities in Maine, the hope remains. As Libby put it, “If the commercial boats participating in the research do find shrimp, then we have another data source to make accurate decisions about restarting this important winter fishery.”