Essential Gear for Lobster Fishermen: What You Need

Introduction

Lobster fishing demands a balance of tradition, technique, and modern innovation. From robust traps to state-of-the-art bait-release devices, having the right gear not only increases efficiency but also ensures you’re working safely and sustainably. Below is a detailed breakdown of the essential tools every lobster fisherman should have on board—whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started.

1. Durable Lobster Pots/Traps

Why They’re Crucial:

• Construction: Pots made of galvanised steel or coated wire last longer under harsh marine conditions and resist corrosion better than cheaper alternatives.

• Design Details: Look for pots with built-in escape gaps to allow undersized lobsters to exit, as well as sturdy entrances that won’t break when hauling.

Pro Tip: Inspect your pots regularly for damage or rust. A weakened frame can compromise your catch and lead to lost gear on the seabed.

2. High-Visibility Buoys & Rope

Why They’re Crucial:

• Easy Identification: Vividly coloured buoys make your pots stand out, reducing collisions with other vessels.

• Compliance: Many regions require specific markings or ID tags to ensure you’re fishing legally.

• Safety: High-tensile rope is less prone to breakage, which helps prevent gear loss and accidents during retrieval.

Pro Tip: Avoid rope that’s too light or floats excessively, as it can become entangled in boat propellers or form hazards for other sea users.

3. Protective Clothing & Safety Equipment

Why They’re Crucial:

• Weather Protection: Lobster fishing often involves working in cold, wet conditions. Waterproof jackets, bib trousers, and non-slip boots are a must.

• Hands-On Work: Sturdy gloves protect your hands from lobster claws, sharp shells, and rope friction.

• Emergency Preparedness: Keep an accessible lifejacket or buoyancy aid, and ensure your vessel has emergency flares, a first-aid kit, and a reliable communication device.

Pro Tip: Opt for gear with reflective strips or high-visibility markings, especially if you fish during early morning hours or in poor weather conditions.

4. Bait Saviour System

Why It’s a Game-Changer:

• Timed Bait Release: The Bait Container allows you to programme bait drops at optimal feeding times. This minimises waste and keeps the pot attractive to lobsters for longer periods.

• Wireless Communication & Charging: Eliminates the need for fiddly connectors that can corrode, and allows real-time schedule adjustments from the deck or via the Hub-1 controller.

• GPS Integration & Remote Monitoring: Hub-1 helps you track each pot’s location, reducing the likelihood of lost gear and saving on fuel by limiting unnecessary sea trips.

• Sustainability & Savings: By cutting bait usage by up to 75% and lowering fuel costs by up to 50%, the Bait Saviour system supports both the environment and your bottom line.

Pro Tip: Combine fresh fish scraps or bait blocks with the Bait Saviour Bait Container to maintain a potent scent for extended soaks.

5. The Right Bait

Why It’s Crucial:

• Lure Lobsters Effectively: Oily fish like herring or mackerel and specialised bait blocks are favourites for their strong scent.

• Cost vs. Quality: Buying in bulk can reduce costs, but ensure you store bait properly (freeze or refrigerate) to maintain freshness.

Pro Tip: Experiment with local bait options to find what works best in your region, and adjust your approach using data from the Bait Saviour system’s monitoring features.

6. A Reliable Vessel

Why It’s Crucial:

• Size & Stability: Ensure your boat can handle the number of pots you plan to deploy without compromising on safety or manoeuvrability.

• Maintenance: Regularly service the engine and check vital components (bilge pump, navigational lights, etc.) to prevent breakdowns at sea.

Pro Tip: Consider adding a pot hauler to make retrieving heavy pots safer and faster, especially during rough weather conditions.

7. Navigational & Safety Electronics

Why They’re Crucial:

• GPS & Fish Finder: Locate prime lobster habitats (rocky substrates, reefs) and monitor the seabed for potential snags.

• VHF Radio: Communicate with harbour authorities and other vessels, crucial for safety in poor visibility or emergency situations.

• Radar & AIS (Automatic Identification System): Essential for heavily trafficked waters, helping you avoid collisions and track nearby vessels.

Pro Tip: Integrating your boat’s navigation systems with the Bait Saviour Hub-1 controller creates a central command centre for all your fishing operations.

Conclusion

A successful lobster fishing venture depends on having the right gear for both traditional practices—such as sturdy pots, reliable rope, and high-quality bait—and forward-thinking technology like the Bait Saviour system. This balanced approach ensures you remain competitive in a challenging market while conserving resources and maintaining the highest safety standards on the water. With each piece of kit carefully chosen and well-maintained, you’ll be well on your way to landing bigger hauls and running a more efficient, sustainable operation.

Which piece of gear do you think makes the biggest difference in lobster fishing success?

• A. High-Quality Pots/Traps
• B. The Bait Saviour System
• C. Protective Clothing & Safety Equipment
• D. Navigational Electronics

See All Options