Where to Buy Cheap Lobster in Maine

Maine is famous for its fresh, delicious lobster. In fact, Maine lands more lobster than any other state in the country. With so much supply coming from local lobstermen, you might expect lobster in Maine to be cheap, right? Well, not necessarily. Lobster prices fluctuate throughout the seasons and depend heavily on demand. Tourists flock to Vacationland every summer in search of that perfect lobster roll or steamed lobster dinner. Increased demand drives up prices. So where can savvy shoppers find cheap lobster in Maine? Here are some tips and tricks for getting the best deal on Maine lobster.

Buy Directly from Lobstermen

One of the best ways to get cheap lobster is to buy directly from the source – local Maine lobstermen. Cut out the middleman retailers and restaurants to get lobster straight off the boat Many small fishing towns have lobster co-ops where you can buy fresh catch directly from lobstermen at wholesale prices Two great options are the Pine Point Fishermen’s Coop in Scarborough and the Stonington Lobster Coop on Deer Isle. At lobster co-ops, you can get softshell lobsters for as little as $4-5/lb and hard shells for $6-7/lb. That’s significantly cheaper than typical retail prices. Plus, you know you are getting the absolute freshest lobster possible.

Shop at Seafood Markets

Another place to find cheap lobster is seafood markets especially those located in fishing communities. They have close relationships with local lobstermen and often get first pick of the catch. Places like Browne Trading Market in Portland and Day’s Crabmeat and Lobster in Rockland are go-to spots for buying affordable live and cooked lobster. Even major grocery store chains like Hannaford can have decent lobster prices when they run weekly specials. Check circulars and stock up when lobster goes on sale. Outside of tourist zones supermarket lobster prices are generally cheaper than many lobster shacks.

Buy in Bulk

If cooking for a crowd, consider buying lobster in bulk. Many seafood markets and lobster processors offer discounted prices for large volume orders. Greenhead Lobster in Stonington Maine lets you mix and match lobster orders by the pound. The more you buy, the more you save per pound. For big family vacations order 25+ pounds of lobster and steam them yourself over a beach bonfire or in your rental house. It’s way cheaper than dining out with a group. Craving lobster after your trip? Order online for overnight delivery. Both Greenhead Lobster and Calendar Islands Maine Lobster ship live and cooked lobster nationwide at reasonable prices.

Avoid Tourist Traps

Overpaying for lobster is easy to do as a tourist in Maine. Roadside lobster shacks and pier-side restaurants often prey on vacationers’ lack of local knowledge. Before your trip, research typical lobster prices so you know a decent deal when you see one. In the height of summer, $15-20 for a basic lobster roll is common. Paying $30+ means you are getting ripped off. Likewise, avoid places charging $50+ for a steamed lobster dinner. If you want lobster while exploring, go to take-out seafood markets instead of sit-down restaurants in tourist areas. You’ll pay their retail price per pound rather than inflated menu prices.

Time Your Trip

Since lobster prices fluctuate throughout the year, carefully timing your visit can help you score cheap lobster. Aim to travel in the late spring/early fall shoulder seasons. Maine weather is still mild and fewer tourists means better prices. Late summer into early fall is when Maine lobstermen haul in their biggest catches. With abundant supply, early autumn can be a prime time for lobster deals. Prices also dip in late winter/early spring before the summer rush starts. Just don’t expect the full range of restaurants and activities to be open. Most seasonal lobster shacks are closed during the off-season.

Check the Weather

Believe it or not, weather conditions affect Maine’s lobster prices. When storms prevent lobstermen from hauling traps, supply drops at local markets. Less inventory means higher prices. Before making a special trip to buy lobster, check marine weather forecasts. Even smaller wind advisories can keep lobster boats in the harbor. Blizzard warnings will shut down fishing entirely for days. If forecasting storms, delay your lobster run or be prepared to pay a premium. The day or two after a big blow is when supply bounces back and bargain lobster deals return.

Barter for Discount

Got an old pair of rubber lobsterman boots taking up space? Collect antiques, nautical gadgets, or anything unique? Bring them to trade at seafood markets and lobster co-ops. Many will accept bartering, especially for Maine-related items. You never know what random object could charm a lobster seller into giving you a deal. It doesn’t hurt to inquire politely if they’d accept your prized whatchamacallit as partial payment. Just don’t be pushy. Read the room before making unusual bartering requests.

With insider tips and flexible timing, scoring cheap lobster in Maine is very achievable. Just steer clear of the tourist traps, find local lobstermen selling at wholesale prices, and keep an eye out for sales at seafood markets. With a bit of planning and research, you’ll be enjoying deliciously affordable Maine lobster on your next visit!