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new permit allowed Mr. Lamb to catch one tuna per day until 350
tons were caught by the community.
The tuna fishing season in Maine typically begins on June 15
and ends on September 30. However, generally there are only 15
to 20 days per season when the weather and sea conditions are
appropriate for harpooning tuna. During the 1990 season, Mr.
Lamb fished on 15 days; in 1991, he fished on 12 days. Mr. Lamb
was accompanied on his fishing trips by a mate who steered the
Lu-Joy and performed various other duties. The mate’s
compensation consisted of a one-third share of any fish caught by
the boat. In 1990, Mr. Lamb harpooned one tuna weighing 294
pounds and sold it for $1,250. Mr. Lamb did not catch any tuna
in 1991.
Tuna harpooned by Mr. Lamb in prior years generally ranged
from 175 pounds to 980 pounds in weight and averaged around 450
pounds. The price per pound for bluefin tuna is generally
dependent upon the fat content of the fish.
During 1990 and 1991, Mr. Lamb maintained a log with
corresponding entries for each day that he fished and loran
coordinates for areas where Mr. Lamb spotted tuna in order to
assist him later in returning to good fishing locations. Mr.
Lamb also maintained a separate bank account for his tuna fishing
activity.
In 1990 and 1991, Mr. Lamb’s health began to deteriorate and
his diabetes was affecting his eyesight, which, in turn, affected
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Last modified: May 25, 2011