Spending six weeks in the Florida Keys can be quite expensive, so you decided to find a job to earn some extra cash. After a failed attempt at working at a local restaurant, you posted on the Florida Keys Fishing group on Facebook and quickly received responses. You ended up spending two days working on a commercial lobster boat, where you learned about the challenges faced by the lobster industry in the Florida Keys, like rising fuel prices and decreased lobster harvest. Despite the difficult work, you had a positive experience and gained insight into the commercial spiny lobster industry.
From the moment you boarded the boat, a rebuilt 1970s Gloria with Captain Phil at the helm, you were thrown into the action. Your job was to blast and clean the traps, sort the lobsters, and stack the traps. Over the course of two days, you and the crew pulled 400 lobster traps, facing difficult weather conditions and encountering various marine life along the way. While the lobster industry may be facing challenges, your experience gave you a newfound appreciation for the hard work and dedication involved in commercial lobster fishing in the Florida Keys.
Setting Off from the Pier
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When the video begins, you find yourself setting off from the pier on the Gloria, a rebuilt 1970s lobster boat in the Florida Keys. The initial impressions of the boat are that it has been well-maintained and is sturdy. The boat is captained by Captain Phil, a friendly and experienced individual. As you meet the crew, including Garrett and Michael, you quickly realize that they are a tight-knit group who work efficiently together. They welcome you aboard and explain that the purpose of spending 48 hours on the commercial lobster boat is to gain insight into the lobster industry in the Florida Keys.
The Nitty Gritty of Lobster Trapping
The next part of the video focuses on the daily routine of setting and hauling lobster traps. You learn that each line consists of approximately 100 traps and they are all pulled non-stop for several hours. The process of blasting and cleaning the traps is shown, with you taking on the role of the blaster. This means that you have the responsibility of using an extremely pressurized hose to blast away the marine growth from the traps. It is a physically demanding task, but necessary to ensure the traps are clean and ready for the next catch.
After the traps are cleaned, you pass them to Michael, who is in charge of stacking them. He meticulously stacks the 275-pound traps into 54-trap high piles. Meanwhile, Garrett’s job is to pull the buoys with a gaff and feed the line through the hydraulic crank. This is considered the most dangerous job on board, as any mistake with the hydraulic control could lead to a trap flying towards the crew. Despite the challenges, the crew works efficiently and safely together.
Safety protocols aboard the lobster boat are of utmost importance. The crew members wear safety gear, such as bibs, to protect themselves. They also follow strict guidelines to prevent accidents and ensure everyone’s well-being.
A Deep Dive into the Lobster Industry in Florida Keys
The video then delves into the rich history of the lobster industry in the Florida Keys. You learn that it has been an integral part of the region’s economy for many years. However, the current state of the lobster harvest presents challenges for local fishermen. Decreased lobster harvests are a concern, and rising fuel prices add to the financial burden. Additionally, the industry heavily relies on China as the main buyer of Florida spiny lobsters. This reliance on a single market makes the industry vulnerable to economic fluctuations.
Day One: The Early Morning Starts
The video takes you through the demanding physical work and long hours that come with working on a commercial lobster boat. The crew starts their day early, with a 5:50 AM arrival at the dock. The physical demands of pulling 400 lobster traps over two days quickly become apparent. However, there is also an adrenaline rush that comes with the first lobster trap pull. The anticipation of what each trap might hold adds excitement to the work.
Despite the challenges, the crew finds time to share meals and camaraderie on the boat. Meals are simple but satisfying, providing the necessary fuel for the demanding work ahead. The crew members bond over their shared experiences and the demanding nature of their work.
Experiencing a Day in the Life of a Lobster Crew
Throughout the video, you witness the interactions and dynamics among the crew members. They communicate effectively and work together as a team to ensure the smooth operation of the boat. Each crew member has their own personal motivations and inspirations for being a part of the lobster industry. Whether it is the love for the ocean or the sense of fulfillment that comes from hard work, they all find meaning in what they do.
The video highlights the importance of teamwork and efficiency on the deck. The crew members rely on each other’s skills and expertise to ensure a successful catch. They understand that their individual contributions are part of a larger effort to sustain the lobster industry in the Florida Keys.
Day Two: Pulling 400 Lobster Traps
The second day of the video focuses on the process of pulling the remaining 200 traps. With a sense of accomplishment from the previous day’s work, the crew pulls the traps with renewed energy. As each trap comes up, there is a sense of triumph and excitement. The crew members take pride in their ability to navigate the traps efficiently and maximize their catch.
You also gain insight into the art and science of lobster trapping. The crew members use their knowledge and experience to strategically place the traps, increasing their chances of a successful catch. They carefully examine each trap, assessing its potential for lobsters and other bycatch. It is a delicate balance between respecting the environment and maximizing the catch.
Environmental and Economic Challenges
The video brings attention to the environmental and economic challenges faced by the lobster industry in the Florida Keys. Rising fuel prices have a significant impact on the industry’s profitability. The increased costs of fuel can eat into the already slim margins of the lobstermen. Additionally, decreased lobster harvests are a cause for concern. The exact reasons for this decrease are unclear, but it could be attributed to various factors such as pollution, climate change, or overfishing.
The lobster industry holds significant socio-economic importance in the Florida Keys. It provides employment opportunities for locals and contributes to the local economy. The video emphasizes the need for support for local industries and the adoption of sustainable practices to ensure the long-term viability of the lobster industry.
Looking Towards the Future
As the video nears its conclusion, it looks towards the future of the lobster industry in Florida. The fishing community is adapting to the challenges they face, finding innovative ways to overcome obstacles. The role of sustainable practices becomes even more crucial as the industry strives to balance economic concerns with environmental conservation. By adopting sustainable practices, such as reducing fuel consumption and implementing responsible fishing techniques, the lobster industry can work towards a more secure future.
The future prospects of the lobster industry in Florida remain uncertain. However, the video highlights the resilience and persistent spirit of the lobstermen. They continue to navigate through the challenges they face and find ways to thrive in an ever-changing industry.
Reflections on the Lobster Boat Experience
In the final section of the video, you reflect on the unforgettable people and stories encountered during your time on the lobster boat. The experience offers valuable lessons about the commercial fishing industry and the lobster industry specifically. You gain a deeper understanding of the intersection of commerce, community, and sea life. The delicate balance between economic viability and environmental conservation becomes apparent.
The video captures the rewarding yet tough experience of working on a commercial lobster boat. It instills a sense of respect for the lobstermen and their persistent spirit in facing the challenges of their industry. The importance of supporting local industries and embracing sustainable practices is highlighted throughout.
Conclusion
As the video comes to a close, you recall the rewarding yet tough experience of spending 48 hours on a commercial lobster boat in the Florida Keys. The insights gained about the lobster industry and the people who work in it leave a lasting impression. The respect for the lobstermen and their relentless pursuit of their livelihood is evident.
The conclusion emphasizes the importance of supporting local industries and embracing sustainable practices. By doing so, we can ensure the preservation of the Florida lobster industry for future generations.