“I like to say I’ve been on the boat since I was old enough to wear boots.”
Ever since he could remember, Sonny’s spent countless hours on the water. Starting at a young age, Sonny’s father taught him the ins and outs of being a lobsterman. From working on gear to hauling traps to measuring lobster, Sonny’s father taught him everything he knows.
And one of the most important lessons he taught him was about the ethics of conservation and the importance of lobster sustainability. Even through the most tedious days at sea, Sonny learned from his father the importance of being consistent about protecting young and breeding lobsters.
I“Knowledge is handed down from older to younger fishermen…it’s just one of the things you learn about lobstering. It’s like checking the tides and where to set your traps,” said Sonny.
Over the years, Sonny’s taken what his dad has given him and built upon it. He first started out his lobstering career on his dad’s 1980 boat, Nancy Anne. But today, the Nancy Anne looks a little different. Sonny has worked to restore the boat and modernize it. He loves the memory he created with his dad on the boat and wants to preserve those memories.
Over time, Sonny’s utilized his father’s wisdom and lobstering knowledge to start a new business for himself – one focused on vinyl lettering for boats. Founding the business with his wife Abbi, he’s proud to see their custom work on boats across Beals Island when he goes out to catch lobster.
“I’ve put on thousands of boat names; I can remember them all. When I am out on the water, I’m proud to see it, and I can usually tell you who the captain of the ship is because I put it on their boat.”
But building on his dad’s legacy doesn’t end there. Just like his father taught him, Sonny is passing his knowledge along to the next generation in his family. And just like it was for him, his kids have grown up on the water – ever since they could put on boots.
What is your favorite way to eat Maine Lobster?
“Lobster with pasta, heavy cream, butter and cheese. You can’t beat it.”
What is the best part of living in Maine?
“The summers for sure. Winter is cold and long. Spring is cold and longer. So, the 5 weeks of summer we get sure are special.”
What makes you proud to go to work every day?
“There’s heritage that is behind the lobster industry. All the old- timers that made their own laws to protect the future of their industry has paid off. I wish my father, and those guys could see the industry now. How it’s grown, how it’s providing for the coast of Maine and the technology that is available now. They would be amazed.”
What is special to you about Maine Lobster or the Maine Lobster fishery?
“This fishery is special because it’s ours and there’s nothing better.”
Meet The People Behind the Fishery
A diverse group of people passionate about Maine and the lobster industry.
