The Belize Fisheries Department (BFD) regulates the consumption and harvesting of lobster. According to the BFD, the 2017 lobster season will run from June 15, 2017 to February 14, 2018 and initial estimates are that this year’s harvest will be a profitable one.
According to Ramon Carcamo, a BFD official, lobster catches over the past five years have remained stable. According to Carcamo, the BFD is estimating that between 500,000 and 600,000 pounds of lobster tails will be harvested during this year’s lobster season, ensuring an ample supply of the tasty crustaceans both for local festivals as well as for export. Carcamo said that the BFD is estimating a net profit of $15 million for the 2017-2018 season.
The Caribbean Spiny Lobster (panulin argus), is a native animal fished in the waters of Belize. The spiny lobster thrives in the reefs and mangrove swamp environments of Belize, and are some of the top seafood species fished in the country. Also known as the West Indian langouste, the spiny lobster is a close cousin of the American lobster fished from colder waters found in the north of the United States and Canada.
“The BFD’s report about this year’s lobster season was warmly welcomed,” said Larry France, marketing manager of the Chabil Mar. “Lobster is one of the preferred foods of visitors and locals alike, and popular events like Lobsterfest in Placencia will be beneficial to the region In addition, it means we should have a plentiful supply for tourists through summer and well into the winter season. We await you in Belize!”
Lobsterfest is an annual three-day celebration of all things lobster. Held in Placencia, one of the top lobster fishing communities of Belize, Lobsterfest mixes innovative lobster recipes with lots of games, live music, and a fun beach party. Dozens of regional chefs compete during Lobsterfest to come up with the most savory and delicious dish featuring the world’s famous crustacean.
This year’s Lobsterfest will run from June 23-25, 2017, and is expected to draw record numbers of visitors. Originally a local affair featuring a single chef, Lobsterfest has grown to become one of Belize’s most popular and enduring traditions. Beyond the culinary treats on display, Lobsterfest will feature a drinking contest sponsored by Belikin Beer, a Mr. and Mrs. Physique contest, kayak races, fly fishing contests, and spicy hot wing eating contests amongst many other activities that the whole family can enjoy.
Chabil Mar is an award-winning resort located on the Placencia Peninsula just a short walk from all the Lobsterfest activities.
