Norway’s 2025 lobster season began with the highest reported catches since data collection started in 2007, according to the Institute of Marine Research (Havforskningsinstituttet).
Recreational fishers reported exceptional results during the first two days of the season, with both total numbers and legal-sized lobsters at record highs.
“This may reflect the effects of management measures and unusually warm water, which makes lobsters more active and easier to catch,” said Johanna Bjånes Marcussen, PhD candidate at HI and the University of Agder.
The storm brought a sudden stop
But the success was short-lived. When Storm Amy hit, fishing activity dropped sharply. “It seems the storm frightened people ashore and caused a temporary halt to many in the early part of the season,” Marcussen explained.
The institute’s long-term data show that catches typically fall back to normal levels within two weeks after the opening surge.
Long-term patterns and concerns
HI, researcher Alf Ring Kleiven said data from around 100 volunteer fishers give an early picture of the season. “They’re experienced and fish more than average, but their reports still give a solid indication,” he noted.
Despite recent increases, lobster stocks remain well below historical levels. The species was listed as vulnerable in 2021, and rising fishing pressure could slow its recovery. Kleiven warned: “A fishery with almost unlimited capacity can hinder further rebuilding.”