“Fishers on Prince Edward Island are extremely hard working individuals who are passionate about their craft. I want to thank and recognize all Island fishers for their valued contribution to our provincial economy,” said Minister McIsaac.

During the spring 2016 season, lobster fishers enjoyed very strong shore prices this year in light of what appears to be strong demand for lobster products. The preliminary landed value of the spring lobster season is estimated to be $148 million dollars; an increase of 22 per cent from 2015 spring landed values.

Preliminary landings from the 2016 spring lobster season total 23.5 million pounds. This amount represents a decrease in catches of 13.5 per cent from the record landings in the 2015 spring lobster season.

The spring lobster season is comprised of more than 1,000 fishers in Lobster Fishing Area 24 and Lobster Fishing Area 26 A-1. The spring season runs April 30 until June 30. The fall lobster season began August 9 and will close October 10 with 225 lobster fishers taking part.

The lobster fishery in Prince Edward Island has about 1,200 captains, with approximately 1,800 crew working during the two seasons.