Do you love seafood, especially lobster? If yes, then you know the importance of having the right tools while enjoying this delicious delicacy. One such tool is the lobster measuring tool. This tool helps you measure the size of the lobster accurately and ensures that you are not breaking any legal regulations. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the lobster measuring tool.
What is a Lobster Measuring Tool?
A lobster measuring tool is a device used by fishermen and seafood enthusiasts to measure the size of lobsters. It is essential for measuring lobsters as there are strict regulations on harvesting them. The regulations vary from state to state, but in general, they dictate minimum and maximum sizes for lobsters that can be harvested. A lobster measuring tool helps ensure that the lobsters caught fall within these regulations.
Types of Lobster Measuring Tools
There are two types of lobster measuring tools – gauge and caliper.
Gauge: A gauge is a metal or plastic template with a cutout shape that resembles a lobster’s carapace (the hard outer shell). A gauge typically has holes or slots cut into it at different points along its length that correspond to different legal size limits for lobsters in various regions.
Caliper: A caliper is a hand-held device with two arms joined by a hinge. The caliper measures the distance between its arms when placed around an object. Calipers come in different sizes depending on the size of lobsters being measured.
How to Use a Lobster Measuring Tool
Using a lobster measuring tool is quite simple. For gauges, place the gauge over the lobster’s carapace, ensuring that its head is against one end of the gauge and its tail touches another end of the gauge. Check which hole or slot corresponds to your region’s legal size limit for harvesting lobsters. If the lobster fits in the hole or slot, it is legal to harvest.
For calipers, place the arms of the caliper around the widest part of the lobster’s carapace. Note down the measurement displayed on the caliper and compare it with your region’s legal size limit for harvesting lobsters.
Why Use a Lobster Measuring Tool?
Using a lobster measuring tool ensures that you are following all legal regulations while harvesting lobsters. These regulations exist to protect the species from overfishing and ensure its sustainability. Using a measuring tool also helps maintain healthy lobster populations by allowing smaller lobsters to mature and reproduce, thus contributing to the growth of future generations.
Where to Buy a Lobster Measuring Tool
Lobster measuring tools can be purchased at most fishing gear stores or online retailers. The price range varies depending on the type of tool and its quality. It is recommended to buy a high-quality measuring tool that will last longer and provide accurate measurements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a lobster measuring tool is an essential tool for anyone who loves seafood, especially lobster. It helps ensure that you are not breaking any legal regulations while harvesting lobsters and contributes to maintaining healthy lobster populations. There are two types of lobster measuring tools – gauge and caliper – each with its own advantages. Using a measuring tool is simple, and it can be purchased both in-store and online. So next time you enjoy some delicious lobster, make sure to have your trusty measuring tool by your side!
References:
1) Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lobster_fishing
2) Maine Department of Marine Resources: https://www.maine.gov/dmr/commercial-fishing/lobster-harvesting-processing/measure-lobsters
