The spring lobster season came to an end on June 30th in North Rustico. I must have done too good a job last year, because Joey Gauthier asked me back to help him land his gear 🙂 Seriously though, what a privilege to be on the crew of the “Julie Ann Jamie” as we hauled in the last of the lobster for the spring, and stacked the traps. Out on the water we talked about what it must have been like in the early days of lobster fishing with small dory’s and no hydraulic winch to haul up the traps.
Like in most parts of the Island, people are passionate about fishing in North Rustico. I remember on setting day one lady singing “It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” while she did a little dance. Then there was another older lady who was almost in tears of joy as we left the wharf – after a few humourous words with our captain she gave us a sincere and heartfelt blessing that was chocked full of emotion. For fishing communities like North Rustico this is when the bulk of the years wages are earned – it’s what pays the bills – and so fishing is more than just a passion and a way of life – it’s the season the makes a way for living.
I’ve hauled a lot of hay, and picked a lot of corn in my day, but lobster season has a special magic of its own. Maybe it’s the sweet taste of Joey’s freshly boiled catch on the way in? 😉 If Joey will have me back, I look forward to hauling in the traps again next year!
