Clark’s Harbour is a town situated on Cape Sable Island in southwestern Nova Scotia, Canada. It is part of Shelburne County, and its economy has long been centred on the fishing industry, with lobster fishing serving as the primary livelihood for residents.
A Fishing Community
The town has a well-established history as a fishing community, and this heritage remains central to its identity today. Lobster fishing continues to be the main industry, shaping both the local economy and the character of the town. Clark’s Harbour is one of a number of small coastal communities along this part of Nova Scotia’s southwestern shore that have relied on the sea for generations.
Birthplace of the Cape Islander
Clark’s Harbour holds a notable place in Nova Scotia’s maritime history as the birthplace of the Cape Islander fishing boat. The Cape Islander is a style of fishing vessel that originated in the community and went on to become widely used by fishermen throughout the Maritimes. The design of the boat is closely tied to the practical demands of the local fishing industry, and its origins in Clark’s Harbour reflect the town’s long-standing connection to the sea and to the traditions of coastal fishing life in the region.