Maine Seafood Responsible Fishing and Aquaculture

Jan 2025

Maine seafood, is at the forefront of sustainable seafood practices in the United States. While the state is renowned for its rugged coastline and picturesque fishing villages, Maine has taken proactive steps to ensure the long-term health of its fisheries.

The seafood industry contributes significantly to the state’s economy and cultural identity, From innovative aquaculture to stringent fisheries management, the state serves as a blueprint for balancing economic growth with ecological responsibility.

Table of Contents

The Importance of Sustainability in Maine’s Seafood Industry

Maine’s waters are home to an array of seafood species, including lobster, scallops, oysters, and groundfish. These resources not only define the state’s culinary heritage but also support thousands of jobs in fishing, processing, and tourism. However, overfishing, climate change, and habitat degradation pose significant threats to this delicate ecosystem.

Recognizing the urgency of protecting these marine resources, Maine’s seafood industry has adopted a sustainability-first approach. This involves managing fish stocks, minimizing bycatch, protecting habitats, and promoting environmentally friendly aquaculture practices. These efforts aim to maintain biodiversity and ensure that Seafood From Maine remains viable for generations to come.

Challenges and the Path Ahead

Despite its successes, Maine’s seafood industry faces ongoing challenges. Climate change is altering ocean temperatures and ecosystems, impacting species distribution and abundance. Additionally, regulations designed to protect the endangered North Atlantic right whale have created tensions between conservationists and the fishing industry.

Addressing these challenges requires continued collaboration between fishermen, scientists, policymakers, and consumers. Programs like the Gulf of Maine Research Institute’s The Gulf of Maine Responsibly Harvested® label are helping consumers make informed choices, while ongoing research seeks to adapt fishing practices to a changing environment.

During a recent visit to Portland, I was invited to attend On the (Seafood) Menu . I had the opportunity to meet some of the leaders in this challenging landscape and taste their products.

Platters of single serving of fresh Maine seafood served on ice.

Bites served at the ON THE (SEAFOOD) MENU event.

Mr. Tuna’s Commitment to Sustainable Tuna

Mr. Tuna, a celebrated sushi chef and food entrepreneur in Maine, has gained recognition for his creative sushi and dedication to sustainability. His decision to serve sustainable tuna reflects a deep understanding of the environmental challenges facing global fisheries and a commitment to responsible dining. Mr. Tuna, aka Jordan Rubin, emphasizes sustainability in his restaurant and education of the public.

Mr. Sushi aka Jordan Rubin serving one of his delicious sushi rolls.

Tuna is one of the most popular seafood choices globally, but overfishing has pushed many tuna species to the brink. Unsustainable fishing practices, such as longlining, often result in bycatch—unintended species like dolphins, sharks, and turtles getting caught in fishing nets. Additionally, overfishing disrupts marine ecosystems and threatens the long-term viability of fish stocks.

Supporting Sustainable Tuna Practices

Mr. Tuna sources his fish from certified sustainable fishermen, ensuring that the tuna served at his establishments meets rigorous environmental standards. This includes tuna species that are responsibly harvested using methods such as:

Pole-and-line fishing, which reduces bycatch.

Using tuna from Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)-certified fisheries, which follow strict sustainability guidelines.

Educating Consumers and Promoting Sustainability

Through his menus and interactions with customers, Mr. Tuna plays a vital role in educating the public about the importance of sustainable seafood. Many diners are unaware of the environmental impacts of unsustainable fishing. By offering responsibly sourced tuna, Chef Jordan makes sustainability accessible and appealing. If you’re interested in learning more, follow Jordan on Instagram at @mr.tuna_maine.

Aligning with Maine’s Sustainable Seafood Ethos

Maine is synonymous with sustainable fishing and aquaculture. By championing sustainable tuna, Mr. Tuna aligns with the state’s broader goals of protecting marine ecosystems and ensuring the long-term health of its fishing industry. His efforts contribute to Maine’s reputation as a leader in sustainable seafood.

Meeting Demand for Ethical Dining

Today’s consumers are increasingly mindful of where their food comes from and how it impacts the environment. Mr. Tuna’s commitment to sustainable tuna resonates with diners who prioritize ethical and environmentally friendly dining options. By catering to this demand, he builds trust with his customer base while promoting positive change in the seafood industry.

Mr. Tuna displays a tuna collar

I was priviledged to witness Mr. Tuna breakdown an enormous, 650 lb. tuna during an event and will never see tuna on a menu in the same way!

Chef Jordan frequently participates in food festivals and seafood events around the country. Getting likeminded chefs together allows for the sharing of ideas and the promotion of eating seafood in a more sustainable way. His sushi is regular listed on “BEST BITES” annual lists.

Tasting the tuna roll Mr. Tuna prepared from the 650 lb. tuna he had just broken down.

Mr. Tuna’s choice to serve sustainable tuna in Maine is more than a business decision—it’s a reflection of his values and a contribution to the global movement for responsible seafood. By prioritizing sustainability, he offers his customers not only delicious sushi but also the assurance that their meal is helping protect ocean ecosystems. His efforts serve as a model for chefs and restaurateurs everywhere, proving that culinary excellence and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.

Tasting True Scallop Flavor with Downeast Dayboat

Downeast Dayboat is a Maine-based company revolutionizing the way consumers experience scallops. The owner, Togue Brawn, has years of experience in the seafood industry and is the daughter of a commercial fisherman. She has made it her mission to differentiate the superior taste of Maine dayboat scallops.

Togue Brawn, owner of Downeast Dayboat scallops.

By prioritizing freshness, sustainability, and transparency, Downeast Dayboat offers a unique alternative to the industrialized seafood market. Here are the key benefits of purchasing scallops from this innovative company:

Unmatched Freshness

Downeast Dayboat specializes in delivering dayboat scallops—scallops harvested by small, local fishing boats that return to port daily. This method ensures that the scallops you buy are among the freshest available. Unlike most scallops on the market, which may sit on boats or in processing facilities for days, Downeast Dayboat’s scallops are shipped directly to consumers shortly after harvest.

Freshness significantly enhances the taste and texture of scallops, offering a sweet, buttery flavor and tender consistency that is unmatched by mass-market alternatives.

Dry-Handled Scallops

Downeast Dayboat scallops are 100% dry-handled, meaning they are never soaked in preservatives or treated with chemicals like sodium tripolyphosphate (STP). Many industrially processed scallops are treated to extend shelf life or increase water weight, which compromises flavor and texture.

Fresh scallops with chive served on spoon with platter of ice

Fresh scallops from Downeast Dayboat.

Sustainability as a Priority

The company is deeply invested in sustainable fishing practices. Maine’s scallop fishery is carefully managed through rotational closures, limited fishing days, and strict size regulations to prevent overfishing and allow populations to replenish. By sourcing from dayboat operations, Downeast Dayboat minimizes the environmental footprint of its products, supporting the health of marine ecosystems.

Superior Culinary Experience

While I only had the opportunity to taste a small sampling when attending the ON the (Seafood) Menu , Downeast Dayboat was kind enough to send me an additional sampling of their seasonal catch. They were truly a revelation. Transparency shines here with each packet of jewels labeled with detailed information about where, when, and by whom the scallops were harvested. This level of traceability not only guarantees quality but also allows consumers to make informed choices that align with their values.

Their website offers further information about the merroir of each harvest, allowing the consumer to enjoy the unique quality of the particular environment.

Scallop crudo on square green and brown plate

Downeast Dayboat scallop crudo.

Togue suggests a simple Thai-Crudo to really taste their sweet goodness. I made a plate to bring to a party with a simple dressing of chili paste, crispy shallots, lime and cilantro. Although guests were a bit hesitant to dig into raw scallops at first, a few groans of delight were all it took for total participation! The mild, sweet goodness seduced them into trying and then raving about the taste. Caught just 48 hours before, their deliciousness was something I can still conjure up in my mind’s eye!

INSIDER TIP: Freeze the scallops briefly before slicing….like butta.

I was curious to see if I could sear another selection with that delightful crust I’ve had in restaurants while still maintaining their buttery interior. I always struggled with the technique when I cooked scallops in Nantucket. Following the company’s suggestion, I patted them dry (never rinsing, as they will absorb the water!) and put them in a hot pan with a small amount of olive oil. Voila, dinner is served.

crisp scallops on bed of couscous on green and beige plate.

Simple meal of Downeast Dayboat scallops and couscous with lemon and butter.

Downeast Dayboat scallops are more than just a high quality seafood experience. Prized by both home cooks and professional chefs alike, their natural sweetness and firm texture shine in a variety of preparations.

Expanding Aquaculture and Diversifying Fisheries

Maine’s Sustainable Aquaculture Movement

In addition to traditional fisheries, Maine is investing in sustainable aquaculture. Oyster and mussel farming, in particular, have grown rapidly in the state, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to wild-caught seafood. These shellfish farms not only provide a reliable food source but also benefit the environment by filtering water and creating habitats for other marine life.

Seaweed farming is another innovative sector gaining traction in Maine. Seaweed absorbs carbon dioxide and nitrogen, helping combat ocean acidification while offering a nutritious, versatile product for human consumption. By diversifying its seafood offerings, Maine is reducing pressure on wild stocks and creating new opportunities for economic growth. In addition, this works towards a year-round income for those who make their living on the water.

Atlantic Sea Farms

Atlantic Sea Farms is a leading force in Maine’s sustainable aquaculture movement, revolutionizing the way we think about seaweed farming and its role in marine conservation, economic development, and climate resilience. With its innovative approach to farming kelp, the company is helping to transform Maine’s coastal economy while addressing some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.

seaweed tastingwin white cups on wooden tray

Prepared kelp being served from Atlantic Sea Farms.

Pioneering Kelp Farming in the U.S.

Founded in 2009, Atlantic Sea Farms is the first commercially viable kelp farming operation in the United States. Based in Biddeford, Maine, the company partners with local fishermen to grow and harvest kelp, a type of seaweed that thrives in cold ocean waters. Unlike many aquaculture products, kelp requires no fertilizers, freshwater, or pesticides to grow. Instead, it absorbs nutrients like nitrogen and carbon dioxide from the water, improving ocean health and combating pollution.

Empowering Maine’s Coastal Communities

One of Atlantic Sea Farms’ core missions is to provide sustainable economic opportunities for Maine’s coastal communities, particularly fishermen facing the challenges of a changing climate and volatile lobster markets. By offering fishermen the tools and training to integrate kelp farming into their operations, the company diversifies their income and provides a steady revenue stream during the off-season.

This partnership model has proven highly successful, with over two dozen fishermen now working with Atlantic Sea Farms to cultivate kelp on their leased ocean plots.

Environmental Benefits of Kelp Farming

Kelp farming is a powerful tool for addressing environmental challenges:

– Carbon Sequestration: Kelp absorbs carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate ocean acidification and climate change.

-– Water Quality Improvement: By filtering excess nitrogen and phosphorus, kelp farms help combat nutrient pollution, which can lead to harmful algal blooms.

– Habitat Creation: Kelp forests provide shelter and food for marine life, supporting biodiversity in coastal ecosystems.

Atlantic Sea Farms’ farms are strategically placed to maximize these benefits, making them a model for sustainable aquaculture worldwide.

Expanding the Market for Seaweed Products

Atlantic Sea Farms is also changing the way consumers view seaweed. The company offers a range of fresh and frozen kelp products, including seaweed salads, smoothies, and fermented goods. By introducing innovative, health-conscious products to the market, they are increasing demand for sustainable aquaculture while promoting the nutritional benefits of seaweed, such as its high iodine, fiber, and vitamin content.

Bangs Island Mussels: A Pillar of Maine’s Sustainable Aquaculture Movement

Bangs Island Mussels, based in Portland, Maine, is another key player in the state’s sustainable aquaculture industry. Known for producing premium-quality rope-grown mussels, the company combines traditional farming techniques with innovative, eco-conscious practices to support marine health, local economies, and the global demand for sustainable seafood.

Mussel Farming: A Natural Fit for Sustainability

Mussels are inherently sustainable to farming. Like oysters, they require no feed, fertilizers, or antibiotics, relying instead on natural plankton from their environment. They also filter water as they grow, improving local water quality and contributing to healthier marine ecosystems. Bangs Island Mussels has perfected this natural process by growing mussels on floating ropes suspended in the pristine waters of Casco Bay.I first learned about this technique while visiting Bouziegues oyster farm in France using similar methods.

This method minimizes environmental impact compared to bottom-dredging techniques often used for wild shellfish harvesting, which can damage seafloor habitats. Rope-grown mussels also reduce bycatch and promote biodiversity, as their presence creates habitats for smaller marine organisms.

Matt Moretti in his facility sharing information about farming mussels.

Mussel lines are carefully monitored to prevent overcrowding and minimize stress on the ecosystem. Additionally, Bangs Island Mussels uses biodegradable materials and works to keep their operations carbon-efficient, further reducing their ecological footprint.

Mussels grow relatively quickly and are less susceptible to warming waters compared to other seafood species, making them a reliable food source in an uncertain future.

Man in red jacket and pants harvesting farmed mussels over the water

Checking on farmed mussels in Maine ©Bangs Island Mussels

Furthermore, Bangs Island Mussels farming helps combat ocean acidification. As filter feeders, mussels remove excess nutrients and carbon dioxide from the water, playing a small but meaningful role in mitigating climate impacts on marine ecosystems.

American Unagi: Setting the Standard for Sustainable Eel Farming

American Unagi, based in Maine, is revolutionizing the aquaculture industry by farming eels sustainably and responsibly. Eels are a prized delicacy in cuisines worldwide, but the global eel population has faced significant declines due to overfishing, habitat loss, and unregulated trade. American Unagi provides a sustainable alternative to wild-caught eels, producing high-quality seafood while addressing ecological and ethical concerns.

Gulf of Maine eel photo ©American Unagi

Closing the Loop: A Fully Domestic Supply Chain

One of American Unagi’s key contributions to sustainability is its fully domestic supply chain. Unlike most eels sold in the U.S., which are imported and often farmed overseas with minimal regulation, American Unagi’s eels are farmed entirely in Maine.

The company sources juvenile eels, known as elvers, from local Maine fishermen who operate under strict quotas and licensing to prevent overharvesting. By sourcing locally and adhering to these regulations, American Unagi helps protect wild eel populations and supports Maine’s fishing communities.

Environmentally Friendly Farming Practices

American Unagi uses land-based recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) to raise its eels. These systems are considered the gold standard for sustainable aquaculture because they:

– Minimize Water Use:RAS recycles water within the system, reducing the strain on local water resources.

– Eliminate Ocean Impact: Farming eels on land prevents issues like pollution, habitat disruption, and the spread of disease to wild populations.

– Enhance Biosecurity: The controlled environment protects the eels from pathogens and ensures food safety for consumers.

This innovative approach allows American Unagi to produce eels with a significantly smaller environmental footprint compared to traditional open-water eel farming methods.

Mere Point Oysters a Partnership of Farming and Fishing

Oysters are one of the most sustainable seafood options available, and Mere Point Oyster Company is dedicated to responsible farming methods that benefit both the environment and local communities. Here’s how their practices contribute to sustainability:

Fresh oysters from Mere Point Oysters.

– Natural Filtration: As filter feeders, oysters improve water quality by removing excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, from the water. This helps combat issues like algal blooms and promotes healthier marine ecosystems.

– Habitat Creation: Oyster farms provide habitat for various marine species, supporting biodiversity in coastal waters.

– Low Impact on Resources: Oysters require no feed, fertilizers, or chemicals to grow, making them an inherently sustainable choice.

Is Aquaculture a Solution for the Future?

All f the above businesses operate with a strong commitment to ocean stewardship. Their mission includes the following tenants:

A Commitment to Ocean Stewardship

The companies ensures that its farming practices align with Maine’s rigorous aquaculture regulations, which prioritize environmental protection and sustainable resource use.

Addressing Environmental Challenges

The waters of the Gulf of Maine are warming faster than 99% of the world’s oceans due to climate change. This poses significant risks to traditional fisheries. Sustainable practices have demonstrated that aquaculture can be a climate-resilient solution.

Enhancing Consumer Awareness

Through their dedication to quality and sustainability, the businesses have helped elevate consumer awareness about the benefits of sustainable seafood. By prioritizing transparency in their operations, consumers are empowered to make informed choices that support responsible aquaculture.

Collaborating for a Sustainable Future

By sharing knowledge and resources, they’re fostering a community of responsible growers and inspiring similar initiatives around the world. All are deeply involved in research and advocacy, working with organizations like the Maine Aquaculture Association to promote sustainable practices. Aquaculture can be a force for good, fostering economic resilience while protecting the environment.

From Atlantic Sea Farms:

GOOD FOOD SHOULD DO GOOD

Reducing Carbon Footprint and Supporting Local Economies

A commitment to sourcing and producing domestically supports Maine’s local economy, creating jobs in fishing, farming, and processing.

Maine Seafood-The Way Forward

While there are many additional fisherfolk in the Maine ecosphere, Downeast Day Boat, Mr. Tuna, Mere Point Oyster, Atlantic Sea Farms, American Unagi and Bangs Island Mussels exemplify how sustainable fishing and aquaculture can benefit the environment, economy, and local communities. It was a privilege to meet each of the owners, taste their product and hear their stories. By responsibly catching or farming from the sea, improving water quality, and supporting Maine’s coastal economy, these companies are making meaningful contributions to the sustainable seafood movement.

For consumers, asking a lot of questions and choosing seafood from responsible fishermen and aquaculture vendors means enjoying a premium product while supporting environmentally conscious practices that protect Maine’s marine ecosystems for future generations.

Conclusion – A Cooperative and Entrepreneurial Approach

Maine’s commitment to sustainable seafood and other marine based products demonstrates that economic prosperity and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand. By embracing innovative practices and fostering a culture of collaboration, Maine has become a beacon of hope for fisheries worldwide. For seafood lovers and environmental advocates alike, supporting Maine’s seafood industry is not just a culinary choice but a step toward a healthier planet.

Whether savoring melt in your mouth tuna, sampling farmed oysters or trying sea kelp for the first time, you can enjoy Maine’s seafood from many vendors with confidence, knowing it’s harvested with care for both people and the planet.

By offering a premium product, these ingredients are celebrated for their exceptional quality. A clean, briny flavor reflects the pristine waters of Casco Bay and the North Atlantic. By prioritizing freshness and transparency, the companies provide consumers with a delicious, sustainably sourced product they can trust.

As the demand for sustainable seafood grows, consumers will realize how thoughtful fishing and aquaculture practices can provide nutritious, delicious food while safeguarding marine ecosystems. Their success is a testament to Maine’s innovative spirit and commitment to a sustainable future.