Lobster prices similar to 2021 though costs up, say P.E.I. fishers
CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. — Lobster costs are about the identical as they had been this time final 12 months, however bills are on the rise, says one P.E.I. fisherman.
“Costs and catches are good,” mentioned Malpeque lobster fisher Chris Wall.
On the wharf, costs for fishermen are between $7 and $8 per pound, down from $8.50 and $9 per pound earlier within the season, mentioned Wall.
The 2021 minimum shore price between June 6-12 was $6.97 per pound whereas common market value was $9.78 per pound, mentioned the Fish, Meals and Allied Employees union web site, and they’re reporting the same prices this year.
Though the worth per pound remained regular over final 12 months, the price of bait has elevated by 25 to 30 per cent and gas has doubled, mentioned Wall.
Excessive bait costs are as a result of DFO closure of the mackerel and spring herring bait fisheries in late March.
Wall advised SaltWire Community earlier than the fishing season began that he has been utilizing frozen bait for some time, which is pricier than shopping for it from native fishermen.
Equally, in Seaside Level earlier this June, fishers had been shopping for both packaged frozen mackerel from Norway or contemporary caught gaspereau.
Rising gas costs have impacted everybody who operates a gas-powered automobile, together with fishers. Diesel costs started the 12 months round $1.57 per litre however jumped to greater than $2 per litre by April and the beginning of fishing season. Diesel is now hovering round $2.40 per litre.
