https://drive.google.com/open?id=1Qh3hn-1LXxTG1z7XZPUix9PDJvsw-fDt
In the video, we shot and interviewed Steven Holler, one of the lobster fishermen in Massachusetts, who has been fishing for lobsters for 40 years. Basing on his experience, we try to present the epitome of a Massachusetts’ lobster fisherman’s idea: what is their status quo, what are their difficulties and their passions for their beloved career.
Text and visualization:
Source National Oceanic and Atmospheric Adminstration of Massachusetts Chart by Ronnie
Source National Oceanic and Atmospheric Adminstration of Massachusetts Chart by Ronnie
Source National Oceanic and Atmospheric Adminstration of Massachusetts Chart by Ronnie
By Ronnie
In Massachusetts, Steven Holler, the president of Boston Harbor Lobstermen’s Association, said this year is the worst year for lobster he has ever seen.
“Last year was a really splendid year, we caught so many lobsters!” said Holler. But with only three weeks left before the season ends, he has only caught about 40 percent of the lobsters of what he caught last year.
“Every [piece of] equipment for lobster fishing is super expensive,” said Holler. Every lobsterman has to consider the cost of each trip. If the landings of lobsters cannot cover the cost, he or she has to end the trip and go back to the harbors.
On Nov. 21, Holler caught only three lobsters from half of his fishing spots. He mentioned each spot normally can provide 40 lobsters. But, today there were only about 27 lobsters in each of four spots. After calculating the balance, he decided to return back to his port immediately. “Fishing lobsters is like gambling, you do not know whether you can catch enough lobsters to cover your cost, especially the gas which is so expensive.” said Holler.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s lobster reports indicated, from 2005 to 2016, the landings of Massachusetts lobsters and revenue from selling them were both increasing as the above charts show.
The 2016 landings number is 1.8 times larger than 2005, and the 2016 revenue is 1.65 times than 2005. But, as the average wholesale price chart shows, the per pound price of the lobsters was fluctuating during those years. Holler added the whole sale price of 2015, 2016 and 2017 is around $4.50.