In the last 10 years, the number of non-trailered commercial fishing vessels in Harwich has increased due to the number of offseason permits issued. Top three species landed between 2014 and 2018: sea scallop, lobster and blue fin tuna.
The January issue of the emagazine showcased seven ports across the Cape, this photo gallery highlights the remaining eight (in alphabetical order.) Taken together the economic value of the peninsula’s ports exceed the value of Gloucester, the second most valuable port in the state – after New Beford – with an ex-vessel value of approximately $53 million by more than $20 million.
The ports across the Cape have been a vibrant part of the economy for centuries and are worth far more than the numbers tell as they define the character of the Cape. With a number of challenges on the horizon – including escalating climate change, supply chain issues and gentrification – we joined the state Division of Marine Fisheries and Urban Harbors Institute at UMass Boston to draw attention to the individual strengths of each port . The full report here, points out some of the needs of each.
Fun Fish Fact: In the last five years, Mashpee is the only town on the Cape where the number of commercial fishermen has almost doubled, and the landings have more than tripled.
Fun Fish Fact : Orleans is in the midst of planning many essential upgrades to Rock Harbor.
Fun Fish Fact: Although Provincetown Harbor has seen in an increase in the sea scallop, lobster and tuna fisheries in the last 10 years, between 2014 and 2018 the blue mussel grabbed the number three spot, by dollar value.
Fun Fish Fact: In the last 10 years, Sandwich has seen an increase in the amount of commercial bass fishing.
Fun Fish Fact: The town has a long connection with the sea, and has one main harbor, Pamet, with more infrastructure challenges than most other ports: no docking or berthing dedicated to commercial fishermen, limited parking, high need for dredging.
Fun Fish Fact: Growth in aquaculture and shellfishing, as well as more small vessels using the Wellfleet ramp, has increased the number of commercial fishing vessels
Fun Fish Fact: Yarmouth has seen an increase in the aquaculture industry and small boat commercial fishery, resulting in more vehicles and usage of the state and town boat ramps at the town’s two harbors – Bass River and Lewis Bay.