Storm Delays Start Of Lobster Season

Poor weather delays lobster season kick-off


High winds are affecting fishermen across the Maritimes

CBC News Posted: Apr 28, 2012 2:01 PM AT Last Updated: Apr 28, 2012 1:57 PM AT

Bad weather is delaying the opening of lobster season along the gulf coast of Nova Scotia, northern P.E.I. and northern New Brunswick.


Fishermen in New Brunswick's area 23 – which includes the Bay of Chaleur and Miramichi Bay – were slated to head out Saturday morning, but now their opening day has been pushed to May 1 due to high winds.

Most other areas were scheduled to open on Monday, but they will now be postponed until May 1 as well.

"When the weather forecast is called for, winds of 20 knots or more, discussions start to be held with industry to figure out whether or not the opening date for the lobster fishery should be changed," said Krista Peterson with Department of Fisheries and Oceans.

"The reason for this is that on opening day when fishermen head out, their boats are heavily loaded with gear and for safety reasons we want to make sure that there's no issues of possible tipping for boats."

Nova Scotia's lobster fishing area 26B North from Margaree Harbour to Pleasant Bay will open on May 2. In P.E.I., a portion of LFA 26A between Point Prim to Victoria will open May 7.
The fishing season will close for most areas on June 30, 2012.