Fishing in Maine

The commercial fishing industry has a long cultural tradition in Maine and provides a significant contribution to the state economy. Based on data from the Maine Department of Marine Resources, Maine fisheries landed over 230 million live pounds in 2008, at a total value greater than $350 million. The lobster fishery accounted for the majority of that value (nearly 70%), followed by farmed salmon, soft clam, groundfish, herring, worms, urchin, and shrimp. Down East and Midcoast Maine represent the largest fisheries in the state (in value terms), followed by Southern Maine and Cumberland County in particular. Beyond economic value, fishing has played an important role in the history of the state and remains an integral part of Maine’s cultural heritage.

Commercial fishing is a very physical occupation, and fishermen must be adequately trained and maintain good physical health to complete the tasks necessary to operate, maintain, and repair equipment and fishing gear. Fishing is consistently ranked as one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States, with a reported fatality rate that is almost 30% higher than logging, the second most risky occupation. In Maine alone, 44 deaths were reported between 1993 and 2006. These often preventable fatalities were attributed in large part to onboard accidents and sinking/capsized vessels.

This website is intended to provide an educational tool for fishermen. It describes the results from a recent evaluation of safety in the industry, as well as provides additional resources on safety regulations, training, and other events in the community.