March 29, 2022 — The working waterfront is one of Maine’s most prominent industries, but it faces an uncertain future.
From new regulations to high fuel prices, some Maine lobstermen say they just can’t catch a break.
Many are concerned for the future of the industry that is so much a part of Maine.
Steve Train grew up lobstering.
I’ve just always had a love for this as a way to make a living,” Train said.
Lobstermen are facing many obstacles, from offshore wind farms to impending federal fishing regulations meant to protect endangered right whales and even high fuel prices.
“I’ve never seen a right whale, and I’ve been doing this since the 70s,” Train said. “But they say that I pose a risk.”
For Train, it’s hard to predict how federal regulations will ultimately affect local lobstermen and the thousands of jobs that rely on the industry.
Many are left holding their breath, waiting for what the tide will bring.