Baby eels, also known as elvers, are creating quite a buzz in the fishing industry, with prices soaring to over $2,000 a pound. These tiny, wriggly creatures are in high demand due to their importance in the Japanese food supply chain, making them more valuable pound for pound than lobsters, scallops, or salmon.
Maine is the only state in the U.S. where elvers are harvested, with fishermen using nets to catch the elusive fish in rivers and streams. Recently, concerns have been raised about potential cuts to the fishery’s quota system, but a new plan proposed by an interstate regulatory board aims to maintain the current quota of under 10,000 pounds per year indefinitely.
The Maine Elver Fishermen Association has been vocal in its support of the sustainability of the fishery, with director Darrell Young urging regulators to approve the plan. Young emphasized the efforts made by fishermen to comply with regulations and ensure the longevity of the fishery.
The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission is set to vote on the new quota system on May 1, with the possibility of extending the current quota for three years. The decision will have significant implications for the industry and the fishermen who rely on elver fishing for their livelihood.
Elvers are primarily sold as seed stock to Asian aquaculture companies, where they are raised to maturity for use in dishes like kabayaki, a popular grilled eel dish. Some of the eels eventually make their way back to the U.S. and are served in sushi restaurants, further highlighting their importance in the culinary world.
With a value of $2,009 per pound last year, elvers are a lucrative catch for Maine fishermen, surpassing the value of the state’s iconic lobster industry. The increase in value can be attributed to a decrease in foreign sources of eels, as well as the critically endangered status of the European eel, which has led to a greater demand for American eels.
Maine has implemented strict controls to prevent poaching and ensure the sustainability of the elver population. These efforts have been successful in maintaining the fishery’s value and preventing overfishing, demonstrating the importance of responsible management practices.
Commissioner Patrick Keliher of the Maine Department of Marine Resources praised the state’s management measures and emphasized the potential economic impact of a quota cut. Maintaining the current quota levels is crucial for supporting Maine’s elver industry and preserving the livelihoods of fishermen.
As the new elver season approaches, excitement is building among fishermen eager to capitalize on the valuable catch. The state’s lottery system for awarding elver licenses has attracted a record number of applicants, underscoring the allure of the lucrative business.
With the future of the elver fishery hanging in the balance, the decision of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission will have far-reaching consequences for Maine’s fishing industry. The outcome of the upcoming vote will determine the fate of one of the most valuable fish species in the state and the livelihoods of those who depend on it for their income.
