Hey there seafood lovers! Ever wondered how long those hardworking shrimp boats stay out at sea? Well, I’ve done some deep diving into the shrimping industry to bring you the full scoop on these fascinating vessels and their time out on the water.
Quick Answer
Shrimp boats typically stay out anywhere from 1-14 days depending on their size and capabilities
- Small inshore boats: 1-4 days
- Large offshore vessels: 1-2 weeks
- Most common duration: 2-4 days
Different Types of Shrimping Trips
Day Trips (1-Day Operations)
The quickest turnaround happens with smaller boats doing day trips Here’s what that looks like
- Leave port at sunset (around 7:30 PM)
- Fish through the night
- Return next morning (around 10 AM)
- Perfect for boats without freezing equipment
- Delivers super fresh catch to local markets
Short Trips (2-4 Days)
Many shrimpers prefer these medium-length trips because
- More efficient use of fuel
- Less wear and tear on crew
- Can still maintain high quality catch
- Allows reaching grounds bit further offshore
- Balanced approach between costs and profits
Extended Voyages (1-2 Weeks)
Bigger boats equipped with:
- Freezer storage
- Sleeping quarters
- Full galleys (kitchens)
- Shower facilities
Can stay out longer to: - Access distant fishing grounds
- Maximize fishing time
- Build up larger catches
- Make trips more economical
Why Trip Length Varies
Several factors determine how long a shrimp boat stays out:
Boat Size and Equipment
- Smaller boats (25-30 feet): Usually day trips only
- Medium boats (40-60 feet): Can handle 2-4 days
- Large vessels (70+ feet): Built for extended trips
- Freezer capacity is crucial for longer trips
Distance to Fishing Grounds
- Inshore: 1-3 miles from coast
- Near coastal: 3-50 miles out
- Offshore: 50-100+ miles
- Further distances = longer trips needed
Economic Factors
The industry has changed a lot lately due to:
- Rising fuel costs
- Competition from imports
- Labor shortages
- Environmental regulations
- Market price fluctuations
Life on a Shrimp Boat
When you’re out there for days, life gets pretty interesting! Here’s what it’s like:
Daily Routine
- 24/7 operation when fishing
- Crew works in shifts
- 4-6 hours sleep at a time
- Constant net checking
- Processing and icing catch
- Equipment maintenance
Living Conditions
- Tight quarters
- Basic amenities
- Shared spaces
- Limited privacy
- Simple meals
- Weather challenges
Modern Changes in the Industry
The shrimping business ain’t what it used to be! These days we’re seeing:
- Shorter trips becoming more common
- Focus on fuel efficiency
- Better technology for finding shrimp
- More emphasis on catch quality
- Adaptation to environmental rules
Tips for New Shrimpers
If you’re thinking about getting into the business, here’s what ya need to know:
- Start with shorter trips
- Learn your local waters
- Invest in good equipment
- Build a reliable crew
- Understand market demands
- Stay flexible with trip planning
The Bottom Line
The length of time shrimp boats stay out really depends on lots of factors – from boat size to economics to fishing conditions. While some still do long trips, most modern operations are trending toward shorter, more efficient runs.
We’re seeing the industry adapt to new challenges, but one thing’s for sure – whether it’s one day or two weeks, shrimping is still hard work that demands dedication and skill. Next time you’re enjoying some fresh shrimp, remember the folks who spent those long hours out on the water bringing it to your plate!
Remember: The best trip length is whatever works for your operation while keeping the crew safe and the business profitable. There’s no one-size-fits-all in this industry!
Would you like me to explain more about any particular aspect of shrimp boat operations?
Where to Go Shrimping
There are a variety of places to go recreational shrimping in the U.S. The Gulf Coast is home to great shrimping spots in states like Texas, Louisiana, and especially Florida. Check out our guide on the best places to shrimp in Florida for a more in depth list on great Florida shrimping spots.
Depending on the method you choose to use, there are multiple types of nets available to use to catch shrimp.
Cast nets are the most common tools used in recreational shrimping. Opt for a net with a mesh size suitable for the shrimp species youll be targeting. The size of the net typically ranges from 6 to 10 feet, depending on your preference and the fishing area.
Dip nets are a very popular method of netting shrimp and are especially great for kids. Dip nets tend to have a smaller mesh and a long pole-like handle allowing the user to have a further reach.
A seine net is a large rectangular shaped net with floats along the top edge and weights along the bottom edge. Seine nets are designed to be used in shallow water areas such as estuaries, marshes, or along the shoreline. This type of net offers the advantage of covering a larger area compared to other shrimping methods such as cast netting or dip netting. They can be particularly effective when targeting shrimp in shallow water areas, as they allow for the capture of a significant number of shrimp in a single haul.
Other Gear and Equipment Needed to Shrimp
Baiting traps with fish heads, chicken necks, or cat food can attract shrimp. Make sure to check local regulations regarding the use of traps and any restrictions on bait.
Depending on the shrimping method and location, you may require a boat or kayak to access prime shrimping grounds. Ensure your vessel is in good condition and equipped with safety gear.
Shrimp are often attracted to light at night. Using underwater lights can help lure them closer to your net, increasing your chances of a successful catch.
Youll need containers to hold your caught shrimp. Make sure they have lids to keep the shrimp fresh and prevent them from escaping.
Optional but recommended, gloves can protect your hands from any sharp objects or pinchy shrimp.
How Does A Shrimp Boat Work?
FAQ
Why do shrimp boats go out at night?
Shrimp boats often go out at night because shrimp are naturally attracted to light, and the use of bright lights on the boats draws them closer to the surface, making them easier to catch.
How long do fishing boats stay out?
Fishing boats can stay out at sea for durations ranging from a few hours to several years, depending on the type of fishing and the size of the vessel.
How long does it take for shrimp to go bad sitting out?
Never leave seafood or other perishable food out of the refrigerator for more than 2 hours or for more than 1 hour if exposed to temperatures above 90°F (32°C). Bacteria that can cause illness grow quickly at temperatures between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C).
How much does a deckhand make on a shrimp boat?
| City | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Livermore, CA | $52,642 | $25.31 |
| San Jose, CA | $52,597 | $25.29 |
| Waimea, HI | $52,344 | $25.17 |
| Alameda, CA | $52,045 | $25.02 |
How long do fishing boats stay out to sea?
Large commercial fishing vessels stay out to sea for four to five months on average. Some expeditions can last as long as six months. Boats fishing for commercial reasons tend to stay out longer than other types of fishing boats.
How long can shrimp be kept on ice?
Shrimp kept on ice for up to 4 days can still be fresh, but the shrimp sold from the Hurricane Shrimper is rarely older than a day or two, and in some cases, only an hour’s old when bought upon the boat’s arrival.
How long does an iceboat stay out at sea?
The iceboat stays out for 10 to 14 days at a time. The freezer boat, on the other hand, stays out for approximately a month, depending on the weather. Larger vessels with sleeping quarters, galleys, and iceboxes may remain out for several days and enter deeper waters.
What is a shrimp boat?
A shrimp boat, also known as a trawler, is a boat designed specifically for shrimping. There are several different types of trawlers, including naval, purse, wet fish, freezer, beam, stern, hand, pair, otter, and outrigger trawlers.
When does the shrimping season begin and end?
The shrimping season begins in May and lasts until December”. Many shrimpers can bring in over a thousand pounds per day on average. Because of the high-profit margin, new growers often choose this business plan first instead of another commercial farming business. And the popularity of shrimp in the market is growing by the day.
Do you need a shrimp boat to catch shrimp?
To catch shrimp, you’ll need a shrimp boat. While shrimp can be caught with smaller nets, using a large outrigger isn’t practical for a 1- or 2-man operation. Before the season begins, get your shrimp license.