The current average price of lobster in Isla Mujeres is 300 pesos per kilogram for the tail, according to local fishermen. This is a significant decrease from the 2022 price of 1,100 pesos per kilogram.

José, a seasoned fisherman from the Caribe cooperative, expressed his disappointment with the current situation. Despite catching four kilograms of lobster tail and several scaled specimens, he's barely covering his daily expenses. The income doesn't suffice to cover the maintenance costs of his boat, engine, and fishing gear.

Some fishermen have resorted to striking deals directly with local restaurants to negotiate better prices. However, the cooperatives are buying the lobster at an average of 300 pesos from the fishermen. This leaves little profit for the fishermen, as the cooperatives typically withhold around 10 percent for administrative expenses.

The main customers, Americans, are not spending as much as usual on food. This unusual frugality has resulted in a decreased demand for lobster, leading to its removal from many restaurant menus.

The previous lobster season, which ran from July 1, 2023, to February 28, 2024, saw a catch of 670 tons of lobster. The price per kilogram fluctuated between 450 and 500 pesos, occasionally reaching up to 700 and 800 pesos.

If the weather conditions are favorable, the fishermen hope to reach their catch target before the season officially closes on February 28, 2025.