A Guide to Lobsters
Were you aware that in 2019 the total supply of American lobsters in the United States amounted to an estimated 202.83 million pounds? With statistics like that, it’s undeniable that lobsters are a favorite meal source for many seafood lovers. If you enjoy lobster or would like to know more about lobsters, you have come to the right place.
In our guide, we’re going to be discussing everything you need to know about lobsters. If you decide that lobster sounds like the perfect treat for your next meal, you can head on over to PJ Lobster House for a tasty lobster dish you won’t soon forget.
When is Lobster Season?
Despite what you may have previously been led to believe, lobsters are trapped throughout the year, so there is no specific lobster season. However, the best months to buy hardshell lobster are usually in the late spring, between May and June, and October and November.
If you’re looking to purchase soft shell lobsters, the best time of year is typically between late summer and early fall. Yet, you should note that unpredictable weather conditions throughout the year can affect the supply of lobsters from the ocean to your nearest seafood store and your belly.
When is The Best Time to Buy Lobster?
Now that you know when to buy lobster, you’re likely curious about when you can get the best deal. Well, at PJ Lobster House, we have periodic lobster specials throughout the year that might interest you.
Additionally, the best time to purchase lobster is often towards the end of Labor Day weekend. If possible, you should avoid buying lobster at the start of Memorial Day. The months when you’re likely to get the best prices on hardshell lobster are between May and September.
How Are Lobsters Caught?
Arguably, no one would blame you if you believed lobsters were caught with a fishing rod. In most instances, lobsters are caught in traps marked by different colored buoys to identify the various trap owners.
After a lobster has been taken out of a trap, it will be banded with durable and strong rubber bands. However, sometimes fishermen prefer to use wooden plugs instead that they insert at the base of a lobster’s claw.
If you ever handle a freshly caught lobster, don’t ever remove the bands or plugs as they are there for your safety. Trust us, you don’t want a pincer to the finger and an awkward trip to the emergency room.
What Are The Different Types Of Lobsters?
We spoke briefly about hard shell and soft shell lobsters above, but the general category that all lobsters fit within regardless of species is warm water or cold water lobster. Have a quick look below to learn more about these two types.
- Warm Water Lobsters: A warm water lobster is usually caught off the coasts of Florida, the Caribbean, California, Asia, and the Mediterranean. Some of the identifying qualities of a warm water lobster are that it will have a fishier taste with a much softer texture, making them challenging to handle.
- Coldwater Lobsters: Unlike warm water lobster, cold water lobsters are caught off the coast of South Africa, Maine, New Zealand, and Australia. Often cold water lobsters have whiter meat and are firmer, sweeter, and more succulent. That’s likely why they are transported to areas that have warmer water.
Are Lobsters A Healthy Meal Choice?
One of the most important questions many find themselves asking before buying or consuming lobster is if it is a healthy meal choice. You will likely be pleased to learn that lobster is considered healthy.
According to studies, lobster is not only great tasting but also a healthy meal source with low cholesterol, high protein, and low saturated fats. Lobster also is a rich source of omega-three fatty acids. Additionally, lobster is also high in calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, amino acids, vitamin A, and vitamin B.
Enjoy Delicious Lobster in Port Jefferson
As you can determine, lobster is one of the best seafood you can choose to consume. This tasty dish will keep you healthy while providing you with a hearty meal to fill you up. If you would like to try a lobster meal, you can visit us at PJ Lobster House.
We sell lobster to the public, and we prepare tasty lobster meals for all to enjoy. You can visit us at our lively store located at 134 Main Street in Port Jefferson, New York. To make a reservation or inquire about our fresh lobster, call us at (631) 473-1143 to find out what we have in stock.