April 18, 2022 — While their appearance is glass-like and puny, Maine elvers come with a price tag that’s a shock to many.
One pound of elvers, also known as baby glass eels, sells for more than $2,000, beating out a pandemic slump of just over $500 per pound, according to the Maine Department of Marine Resources.
These eels are on the rebound, as many close to the industry said this is the best season they’ve had in recent history. This season was so productive. In fact, the limits will be reached before May, more than a month before their expected end date.
But why so expensive? These elvers may be two inches now but can grow up to five feet long.
These eels will also be shipped across the world to China and Japan, where they will be farmed for their meat.