MLA Jr Harvester: Grady Harlow

Eleven-year old Matinicus Island lobsterman, Grady Harlow, continues a family tradition. His great-grandfather, Charlie Rogers, lobstered for many decades in the same waters he does now before his death in 2023.

“When he passed, I was fortunate enough to get his license number and buoys,” Grady said.

Photo by L. Harlow

Grady sets his 15 traps close to the island during the summer months. There’s no fancy equipment involved in his fishing. “I hand haul out of a Carolina skiff. My uncle, dad, and mom take me out to set and haul my gear,” he explained.

Like lobstermen of any age, there are certain aspects of lobstering that Grady likes and others, not so much. “I like the part where I make money and when I leave the island, I have money to spend at stores,” he said. “I do not like the bait part.”

Every day on the water is slightly different. Grady keeps his eyes open for unusual creatures that may come up in his traps as well as other surprises the ocean brings. 

“When I was hauling traps one day with my uncle, I saw a sea turtle!” he recalled.

August is the month when Grady and his parents start to think about the fall and a return to the mainland.

Grady starts sixth grade at the St. George school next month where he will get to play his favorite sport, baseball.

But lobstering remains front and center in his mind during the school year. “I plan to continue lobstering,” Grady said. “I would also like to explore other career opportunities. If those don’t work out I will go lobstering full-time.”