Hey there seafood lovers! I’ve put together this comprehensive guide about shrimp season in the Gulf of Mexico. As someone who’s been writing about seafood for years, I’m excited to share everything you need to know about catching these tasty crustaceans at the right time.
Quick Answer
Gulf shrimp are available year-round, but the prime season runs from May through September. However, specific seasons vary by state and shrimp species. Let me break it down for ya!
Main Shrimp Species and Their Peak Seasons
The Gulf’s got three major players when it comes to shrimp:
-
White Shrimp
- Peak season: May to November
- Known for: Mild, sweet flavor
- Fun fact: These are the biggest shrimp in the Gulf!
-
Brown Shrimp
- Peak season: June to August
- Most common in the Gulf
- Lives closer to shore
- Has a stronger, bolder taste
-
Pink Shrimp
- Peak season: January to June
- Found mainly off Florida’s west coast
- Balanced seafood flavor
- Smaller population than the other two
State-by-State Season Breakdown for 2025
Here’s when each Gulf state typically opens their shrimp season:
| State | Opening Date |
|---|---|
| Texas | Mid-July |
| Louisiana | May 16, 2024 |
| Mississippi | Mid-June |
| Alabama | Early June |
| Florida | August |
Important Update Texas waters will close on May 15, 2025 and reopen in July (exact date TBD). This closure helps protect brown shrimp so they can grow bigger before harvest.
Tips for Getting the Best Shrimp
When you’re buying or catching Gulf shrimp, here’s what to look for:
- Firm texture (no mushiness!)
- Light ocean smell (if it’s super fishy, walk away)
- Raw shrimp should be shiny
- Cooked shrimp should make a “C” shape
- No freezer burn if frozen
Best Practices for Shrimping
We gotta keep our Gulf shrimp population healthy! Here’s what you can do:
- Follow all local size limits and catch rules
- Use proper equipment (like turtle excluder devices)
- Stay away from seagrass areas – that’s where baby shrimp grow up
- Report any rule-breakers to wildlife authorities
Why Do Seasons Vary?
The seasons aren’t just random dates picked outta hat. They’re based on:
- Water temperature
- Shrimp life cycles
- Population studies
- Local environmental conditions
Pro Tips from a Seafood Enthusiast
I’ve learned that late summer (August-September) is usually amazing for shrimping because:
- Multiple species are at their peak
- Water conditions are perfect
- Shrimp are typically larger
- You’ve got the best variety
Wrapping It Up
While you can technically catch shrimp year-round in the Gulf, sticking to peak seasons will get you the best results. Just remember to check your local regulations before heading out – they can change from year to year.
Remember y’all, sustainable shrimping today means better catches tomorrow! Now get out there and catch some delicious Gulf shrimp – but save some for the rest of us!
Would you like me to elaborate on any part of this guide? Drop a comment below!
Beyond 5 Nautical Miles
The National Marine Fisheries Service may close the Exclusive Economic Zone off Texas (9-200 nautical miles) at the same time Texas waters are closed. For further information call (727) 824-5305.
North of a line from the Corpus Christi Fish Pass (Latitude 27° 40 34″) to the Louisiana Border
Dates may be changed by the department providing 72 hours public notice on new closing dates and 24 hours public notice on new opening dates.
When Is Shrimp Season In The Gulf Of Mexico? – Magical Mexico Moments
FAQ
What months are best for Gulf shrimp?
Florida pinks, or gulf shrimp as they are sometimes called, are the largest Gulf species and can reach 11 inches and can live up to 24 months. The peak harvest season is in the spring (March through May) and the fall (October through December) however they are available fresh and frozen year round.
Is shrimp season open in Louisiana?
Does the Gulf of Mexico have shrimp?
Population Status. There are two stocks of brown shrimp: Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic.
Is shrimp in season in Florida?
Wild-caught shrimp is available year round, but supplies are at their peak from June through December.
When is shrimp season in the Gulf of Mexico?
Here’s an overview of Gulf shrimp seasons to help you plan your shrimping adventures and culinary creations. The shrimping season in the Gulf of Mexico typically runs from early spring through late fall.
When is the shrimp season in Texas?
Texas coastal waters, home to white shrimp, pink shrimp, brown shrimp, and rock shrimp, have been the center of the largest shrimping industry in the world for many generations. The commercial shrimp season in the Gulf of Mexico usually closes on May 15 and reopens early in July. For more information about shrimping in Texas, visit Rove.me.
When does the Gulf of Mexico shrimp season reopen?
AUSTIN- The Gulf of Mexico commercial shrimp season for both state and federal waters will reopen 30 minutes after sunset on Thursday, July 15, 2021. Biologists evaluate the biological, social and economic impact when deciding the opening date to maximize the benefits to the industry and the public.
When is shrimp season?
The spring/brown shrimp season generally runs May to July. The fall/white shrimp season is generally open mid-August to mid-December; some waters stay open into January. Outside waters: year-round, except from mid or late December to April or May in certain areas to protect small white shrimp and allow them to grow to market size.
What is the season for Atlantic shrimp?
Atlantic shrimp are more subject to seasonality than those in the Gulf; however, the season is quite lengthy. From mid-spring through early winter, the crustaceans run rampant not far off the coast. Once the water gets too cold — from late winter through early spring — the shrimp are nowhere to be found.
When does shrimp season close in Gulfport?
Shrimp season closes at 12:01 a.m. on May 1, 2022 for areas south of the Intracoastal Waterway and west of the Gulfport Ship Channel. However, licensed live-bait shrimping is open year-round in designated areas.