Collins, King Celebrate Maine’s Iconic Lobster Industry on ‘National Lobster Day’

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Angus King and Susan Collins are celebrating Maine's iconic lobster industry after the Senate unanimously passed their bipartisan resolution recognizing September 25, 2026, as "National Lobster Day." The resolution recognizes the crustacean as a foundational part of Maine's economy and culture. The resolution also highlights the environmental and economic impact of this heritage industry.

"Fueling the lobster's iconic status are the hardworking men and women who wake up early every morning in towns up and down our coastline to carry on the proud lobstering tradition," said Senator King and Collins. "This National Lobster Day, let us highlight their work to ensure the long-term health, resiliency, and sustainability of our waters and the hundreds of millions of dollars they bring to our local economy. Our lobstermen bring immeasurable pride to our great state and this resolution is just one way we can acknowledge and appreciate their service to our communities."

"National Lobster Day comes at peak Maine Lobster season and is the perfect time to enjoy the sweet flavor and tender texture of your favorite lobster dish," said Marianne LaCroix, Executive Director of the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative. "While celebrating this delicious treat, people are also supporting the independent fishermen and coastal communities that have worked for generations to bring lobster to tables everywhere."

Lobster is a top economic driver for the state of Maine. The Maine lobster fishery is one of the oldest continually operated industries in North America, with the first documented catch dating back to the 1600s. Today, Maine is the largest lobster-producing state in the nation. Each year, the fishery employs 5,600+ independent lobstermen, harvests 100+ million pounds of lobster, and contributes $1+ billion to the Maine economy.

Senator King and Collins have been top advocates for the Maine lobster industry, most recently urging Senate action to extend the current lobster regulatory pause to protect Maine's sustainable lobster industry from misguided regulations that would have been devastating for the industry. This action follows Senators Collins and King securing a provision in the fiscal year 2022 annual appropriations spending bill which included the original regulatory reprieve. Additionally, the Senators secured more than $1.9 million for lobster research in 2024 to address critical knowledge gaps and improve fisheries.

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