The Southwest Lobster Science Society’s at-sea bycatch monitoring program is an industry-led initiative that provides an opportunity for fishermen to demonstrate strength in numbers and be stewards of their own fishery.

Decisions for the fishery to ensure its sustainability for future generations need to be based on the best, most complete information available.

no compliance monitoring by swlss

Clients of SWLSS do not need to worry about compliance monitoring or reporting by SWLSS technicians on their vessels. SWLSS does not report on any regulatory infractions. Our sole mission is to collect scientific data.

Click on the link below to register with SWLSS or to renew your registration for the 2025-2026 season (LFAs 33, 34 & 35).

We get the job done

At SWLSS we care deeply about the health and long term viability of lobsters, the shared resource that is the lifeblood of our local economies.

the proof is in the numbers

We take our work very seriously; the numbers speak for themselves:

Over 1400 successful at-sea sampling trips, over 100,000 traps and 400,000 lobsters & other marine animals sampled.