Low lobster prices & high fuel costs keep fishermen out

The fishermen of North Shore are idle as high fuel costs, low lobster prices and hungry seals force them out of business.

North Shore fishermen wondering how they will survive another season if the prices of lobster and fuel costs are continue haunting them. The shore price comes down to $4.50 per pound for smaller canner-sized lobsters and $5 per pound for the larger market-sized, about $1 less per pound from 2007 season. Soaring fuel costs is another big blow this year. Robert Patriquin, Cape John fisherman, said that if the catches are down the fishermen will quit and haul the boat home as it is not worth it to continue with such situation.

Wallace fisherman Wally Allen told that at least 10 fishermen between Pugwash and Barrachois have already made the decision to keep their gear grounded, reducing the number of traps in the strait by 3,000. According to him the catch is also dwindling and the expense for fishing is soaring. For some there is still hope as by luck they are catching good amount of fish but the ever rising costs if fuel haunts them too.

Barrachois fisherman Truman Patriquin informed that personally he was very surprised, on account of the weather, as it’s up from what it was last year. Lismore fisherman Darryl MacIvor shares his optimism and believes landings will improve as the water warms and the season progresses. But the majority lost hope and are wondering for alternative career for their living.

Source: nova news"

WorldFishingToday d. 06-05-2008