Commercial Maine fishers brought in $611 million in 2023. According to data, Maine lobstermen brought in $464 million of that revenue in 2023.

From maine.gov, “The Maine seafood industry continues to be a powerful economic engine for our state,” said Governor Janet Mills. “The dedication to sustainability and premium quality by our fishermen, aqua culturists and dealers is a source of tremendous pride for everyone who calls Maine home.”

In 2023, there were approximately 18,000 full-time and part-time harvesters in the state of Maine.

Maine's Lobster Industry Benefits From Rising Ocean Temperatures
Getty Images/Joe Raedle
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This data is no mystery to The Maine Congressional Delegation which has recently dedicated more than $2,000,000 to educate and train future fishermen and women.

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According to WABI.TV, Two commercial fishing associations were selected to receive the funding.

Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association will get just over $90,000 to establish an online knowledge hub that will provide educational training and will care for the health and wellbeing of fishermen and women.

Eastern Maine Skippers Program will receive roughly $300,000 and will serve eight rural schools along the coast, training 80 high school students and 16 graduates annually.

Maine's Lobster Industry Benefits From Rising Ocean Temperatures
Getty Images/Joe Raedle
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On their website, Maine Coast Fishermen's Association shares that they strive to ensure that fishermen have the community infrastructure and environmental resources to maintain Maine's coastal cultural identity and sustain vibrant working waterfronts for this and future generations of Maine fishermen.

Eastern Maine Skippers Program shares that they are empowering Maine's next generation of maritime stewards with the tools, mentors, and a community network needed to thrive in a changing world.

These Are the 3 Hardest Colleges to Get Accepted into in Maine

Every year, Niche releases a list of the hardest colleges to get into in Maine. This ranking highlights schools that are the most selective in their admissions process. If you're curious about which Maine schools are the most competitive, keep reading!

Maine Island Trail Association & Surfrider Foundation Island Cleanup

MITA and Surfrider armed with a group of volunteers joined forces to clean up the remote Little Drisko Island off of the coast of Maine.

Gallery Credit: David Bugenske/TSM Maine, Mariel/Surfrider Foundation

15 Must-Have Items For Ice Fishing Season In Maine

Ice fishing is an excellent way to embrace the cold winter months in Maine. It will get you outdoors for some fresh air, it's family friendly, and a successful day could yield a tasty dinner. If you're new to the sport, we put together a list of gear you'll need for a fun, comfortable, and successful day on the ice. Some of these items are more essential than others. Some gear may not be essential at all, depending on how you plan to fish. Again, the items we listed are geared towards those who are new to ice fishing.

Before we get to the list, remember to dress appropriately for the cold weather. We didn't put warm outerwear on the list, but it's definitely a must-have. Dressing in layers is important to ensure you're warm enough throughout the day on the ice. If you start getting too warm, you can simply take a layer off. Hand warmers are also worth packing.

Gallery Credit: Paul Wolfe

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