The term “Shrimp” covers many different species of crustaceans, hundreds of them! They’ve been a staple of seaside communities’ cookbooks since the dawn of mankind and it doesn’t look like they’ll stop being important any time soon.

Where and When

Shrimping is possible in almost any salt water on the planet – these little shellfish are very widespread. You can go shrimping before first light, midday, or even at night. Night is one of the more popular times to catch Shrimp as you can attract them by using specialized lights.

How to Fish

One of the more popular ways of catching Shrimp is by using homemade Shrimp traps. They’re fairly simple, rectangular boxes of fine mesh wire with a one-way opening that you place facing the current.

You’re more likely to see anglers haul in Shrimp for bait by seining the shallows. This technique is basically two (or more) anglers slowly moving through the shallows with a 1-inch hole net, scooping everything in. It can be a real workout if it’s a large net, but you can bring in your daily limit in a single go.

Most sportfishing anglers will get Shrimp the easiest way possible – by purchasing it directly from a commercial shrimping vessel. The crew of these trawlers are usually happy to sell some of their bait to eager anglers.

Shrimping regulations vary from state to state and country to country, with differences in techniques allowed, traps and equipment used, and seasonality. Always make sure to check with the locals before you start hauling them in.

Good to Eat?

Shrimp are an incredibly versatile ingredient in kitchens all over the planet. You can eat them hot or cold, whole or mashed to a paste. Just make sure you’re not allergic before digging into a steaming bowl of gumbo!