Maine’s commercial harvesters earned $74 million more in 2024 than in 2023, with landings valued at $709,509,984, according to preliminary data release by the Maine Department of Marine Resources, Feb. 28.

“During a year shaped by unprecedented storms and damage to our working waterfronts, Maine’s commercial fishermen, aquaculturists, and seafood dealers once again delivered a major economic benefit to our state,” said Governor Janet Mills, in a news release. “They did so through hard work and their time-honored commitment to producing and delivering the best seafood in the world.”

The jump in overall value was due in large part to a year-over-year increase of more than $46 million earned by lobstermen at the dock.

Maine lobstermen took home $528,421,645 on the strength of a $6.14 per pound price, despite a catch that declined by greater than 10 million pounds. “The boat price paid to fishermen, which is the second highest on record, reflects the continued strong demand for this signature, premium Maine product,” said Governor Mills.

Maine’s softshell clam fishery was the state’s second most valuable in 2024 at $15,461,017, with harvesters earning $58,971 more than in 2023. “Maine’s softshell clam fishery continues to be one of the most lucrative and in 2024 DMR began several projects to improve management this important resource,” said DMR Commissioner Patrick Keliher. “DMR conducted programs to train municipal marine resource officials, held informational meetings, and provided mini grants to support municipal shellfish management and conservation work.”

Maine oysters were once again in high demand in 2024, earning growers and harvesters $14,852,101 on the strength of an eleven-cent price per pound increase for harvesters, which placed the fishery as Maine’s third most valuable.

Menhaden, a favorite bait of lobstermen, earned Maine fishermen $13,203,602 at the dock, ranking it as Maine’s fourth most valuable fishery.

Maine elver harvesters earned $12,201,545, ranking it Maine’s fifth most valuable as a result of a $1,239 per pound price paid to fishermen.  

“2024 was a challenging year for Maine’s commercial fishing and aquaculture industries,” said Commissioner Keliher. “The storms that destroyed docks and piers up and down the coast put these industries at serious risk. But thanks to Governor Mills’ success in securing funding, the state has been able help rebuild damaged coastal infrastructure, make it more resilient to the effects of climate change, and protect critically important waterfront access for those who make a living on the water,” said Keliher.

More information on 2024 landings can be found on the DMR website.