Category: 2015

FISH SAFE: A float plan and other documents to aid in event of search and rescue

We are always looking for ways to reduce fisherman risks and ensure efficient search and rescue operations. Here are some suggestions for actions that any captain and crew can take prior to leaving the dock that could make a significant difference in the timeliness of a rescue if later needed. First, the captain could provide …

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FISH SAFE: Getting safely back out on the water after a winter haul-out

In the February 2015 issue of CFN, Fred Mattera wrote a SAFE BOAT-SMART BOAT column on inspection and maintenance. Here is a follow-up article that reviews some steps for a smooth and safe return to a new season of fishing after being being hauled out over winter, or a simply after a period of vessel …

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Maine’s 2014 lobster fishery breaks records again

Big landings, huge value, and improved boat price HALLOWELL, ME – While it may not have come as a surprise, the timely announcement of record-breaking Maine lobster landings and value for 2014 certainly provided the backdrop for a truly celebratory weekend at this year’s 40th anniversary of the Maine Fishermen’s Forum in early March. The …

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Busy summer of lobster boat racing ahead;  24 classes and up to 12 days of competition

ROCKPORT, ME – You’re going to want to pack a lunch if you’re heading out to take in one of the Maine Lobster Boat Racing Association (MLBRA) races this summer. Participants at MLBRA’s pre-season spring meeting, held during the Maine Fishermen’s Forum here on Mar. 7, voted to add additional brackets within two classes, resulting …

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Mid-Atlantic Council requests blueline tilefish emergency ruling

DOVER, DE – On Mar. 10, the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council requested emergency rulemaking from the Secretary of Commerce under 305 (c) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, to restrict commercial and recreational landings of blueline tilefish in their jurisdiction. The request came after a two-hour emergency webinar public hearing in which over …

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EDITORIAL – It’s not the error, it’s how you handle it

One look at this month’s cover and two thoughts quickly come to mind. Is that summer, really?  Will we ever see it again? And is that a woman we see working on deck in those oilskins? Yes it is.  And not just any woman. That is Shannon Eldredge, captain of the Morgan E out of …

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40th Annual Maine Fishermen’s Forum: One for the books

It had all the makings of a great movie: you had the glory of the Maine Fishermen’s Forum celebrating its 40th anniversary mixed with the drama of worrying about what the weather might be. The Samoset Resort crew sent out an e-mail on Monday morning of forum week with a bulldozer excavating a small glacier …

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Product News – Grundéns developing specialty line of oilskins designed for women who fish commercially

POULSBO, WA – Grundéns, a leading producer of foul weather gear since 1926, has announced that it is developing a new line of oilskins for professional fishing women. These products will be made using Grundéns’ proven PVC materials and durable construction, yet will be specially tailored to provide the fit, comfort, and performance women need …

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A February to remember

by Diane Cowan A February to remember Maine lobsters and lobster scientist iced-in For those readers who do not know, Diane Cowan, Phd, is the executive director of The Lobster Conservancy, and the author of the popular “Ask The Lobster Doc” column that appeared in Commercial Fisheries News for several years.  Cowan made national news …

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New Boat: Jessica Laura

Builder: Wesmac Custom Boats, Surry, ME Finisher: SW Boatworks, Lamoine, ME Owner: Jim Poole, Vinalhaven, ME   Dimensions: 46’x14’6″x4’11” Fishery: Lobster Hull: Solid fiberglass Top: Molded unit; foam cored Power: C18 Caterpillar (1,000 hp @ 2300 rpm) w/2:1 ZF 500A marine gear; Billings Diesel & Marine Service Prop: 32″x36.5″x4 Shaft: 2-1/2″ AQ-22; R.E. Thomas Marine …

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