Overview

• The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission voted to delay the implementation of new lobster size regulations from January to July 2025.
• The proposed change involves increasing the minimum carapace size for harvested lobsters by 1/16th of an inch to help preserve the lobster population.
• Industry representatives argue the rule could disadvantage U.S. fishermen compared to Canadian counterparts who are not subject to the same size restrictions.
• Concerns over declining young lobster populations in the Gulf of Maine, which have dropped by 39% in recent years, prompted the regulatory proposal.
• The delay aims to provide more time for addressing market impacts and ensuring sustainable lobster fishing practices in the region.