A presentation by Master's student Maddelyn Harden (University of Maine) sparked much interest at the 2012 PEIFA Annual Convention in Charlottetown this winter. Her study is entitled, "Does less bait mean fewer lobster", see below for notes on her study.
Maddelyn is back on PEI this week (June 25th) studying more bait related questions and we look forward to hearing her findings.
Summary of Study by Maddelyn Harden – University of Maine
STUDY OBJECTIVES AND LOCATION:
- The lobster fisheries of Northern New England use bait that is 70 to 90% herring
- Reduction in the amount of herring could mean an increase in the overhead cost to Fishermen
- Study objective – to determine if reduced amount of bait caused a reduction in lobster harvest
- Study done in Belfast and Beal’s Island Maine, and Morrell PEI – June to October 2010
METHODOLOGY AND FINDINGS:
- Bait bags were fished for 3, 5 and 8 days and then weighed to determine bait weight loss
- The difference between the control and reduced bait catch was not significant
- It appears that reduction in bait used does not influence lobster catch
- Reductions were up to 50%
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
- Many alternative baits are being used in the Maine fishery
- Concern of disease transfer form other species from outside the area e.g. tuna heads from Vietnam
- Salting prevents virus transfer
- Cowhide, contains pathogens and hair does not breakdown. Cow hair has been found
- Irradiation and pasteurizing are possible options
- Fish bait not inspected as it is not a food
