Families huddle at the end of the Back Bay wharf as the subtle hum of boat engines fills the air.
It’s setting day across many parts of Charlotte County.
“Today is probably the biggest day of the year for fishermen in our area followed by the next few days,” Jordan Holmes, with Fundy North Fisherman’s Association, said. “My understanding is that the first week is make or break for most fishermen.”
Fundy North Fishermen’s Association represents fishermen from St. Martins to St. Stephen, including Deer Island and Campobello Island, which is known as lobster fishing area (LFA) 36.
Holmes said there are about 150 active fishing licences in LFA 36.
Every start of the season depends on weather conditions, with boats preparing to depart local wharves at 7 a.m.
“What they’re doing right now is just dumping traps in the water and then we can go back to check them either later today or tomorrow,” he said. “There is definitely one area that is a prized area.”
New Brunswick Southwest MP John Williamson said this is likely to be a challenging year for fishermen across Charlotte County
“All summer, it’s been about bills, buying diesel, buying bait and getting traps, and today, finally it’s a chance for lobster families to be out their hauling in the catch,” he said.
Williamson said he spoke with families gathered at the wharf to see fishermen off.
“It is, of course, a dangerous business out there,” he said.
At least three people died off the coast of Nova Scotia last year during lobster fishing season.
He said he has heard concerns about the cost of diesel, which many use to fuel their boats.
“I think this is one of the toughest lobster seasons I’ve seen because all the financial pressures are working against the captains and the crews,” he said. “Diesel prices are exceptionally high, bait prices are up and lobster traps are facing tariffs as well.”
Williamson said those rising costs have added pressure to the start of the season.
“Hope for a good price and bountiful catch … to see those bills being paid,” Williamson said.
Lobster fishermen on Grand Manan Island also headed out as part of LFA 38. Grand Manan Mayor Bonnie Morse wished the fishermen well.
“Setting day is an important day on our island and the nervous anticipation is palpable throughout the community,” she said on social media. “Best of luck for a safe and prosperous season to everyone heading out on the water.”
As families continue to stand huddled together as the sun rises over Back Bay, their farewells mark the beginning of another lobster fishing season.
