I think the Right Whales issue is going to damage the industry heavily but I'm optimistic that it can rebound. Though likely still at reduced levels

The thing with the whales is vertical lines that snare them up (allegedly) but if and when people are pushed to it, I bet they can find alternatives to static vertical trap lines.

Did a lot of youth robotics stuff and I see two viable options just off the top of my head, either traps that can stow then release a buoy from the sea floor on a timer, so the lines are only present while the lobstering boats are out collecting, and lineless traps that rely on a RC submersible to hook them up to a tow line so the boats can haul them in.

Both would be costly modifications to make though, but the means of surviving are still there if the Fed and lobstermen can come to an agreement on new practices.

I also kinda like the idea of a coast town having a mom and pop robotics shop to sell and maintain it all.