Regional Ventless Trap Program: Seeking Industry Participants

The Department of Marine Resources, in cooperation with the Gulf of Maine Lobster Foundation, seeks two industry participants for the Regional Ventless Trap Program through a competitive bid process. This is an opportunity to participate in a cooperative research project between industry and scientists from Maine through Rhode Island.

Two of nine legs are open for bid, covering (1) Addison – MDI and (2) Casco Bay. Each leg will have 80-100 small mesh traps rigged as triples randomly located at three depths. Sampling will take place during June, July and August 2025. Each trap will be baited and hauled twice each month on three-night soaks making a total 3-day commitment each month. The lobster catch will be measured by a sea sampler and immediately returned to the ocean. All traps, line and buoys will be supplied to participating fishermen. Interested parties will need to complete the application to identify vessel specifications, daily rate and preferred sampling leg.

Additional information and application materials can be found here.