Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Obtain a valid state fishing license from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (tpwd.state.tx.us/). Obtain a recreational fishing license if you intend to use shrimp as food or bait. Obtain a commercial fishing license if you intend to sell shrimp. In addition, obtain a saltwater fishing stamp endorsement and register any boat to be used for shrimping with the Department.
Use a cast net, seine or trawl to catch shrimp, as these are the only devices allowed under state law. If fishing by trawl, which is the most popular and successful method, use only one trawl per boat. Tow the trawl over the sea bottom to scoop shrimp and bottom fish into the cod-end of the trawl. Wait for the catch to fall to the deck, which will occur when the net of the trawl reaches a certain weight. Remove and discard the heads of shrimp with a knife. Ice the tails.
Target shrimp by fishing in the Gulf of Mexico and/or in major bays, including the Trinity Bay, Galveston Bay, East Bay and Matagora Bay. These waters contain many saltwater shrimp. Avoid shrimping in nursery areas, which are coastal waters not specifically named, including bayous, inlets and lakes. Since these waters contain mostly postlarval and juvenile shrimp, shrimping is not permitted.
Fish for bait shrimp in major bays year-round. Respect limit laws for bait shrimp by keeping only two quarts per person, or four quarts per boat using a trawl. There are no count size (number of shrimp per pound) restrictions for bait shrimp.
Fish for shrimp for non-bait purposes in major bays between May 15 and November 30. Keep no more than 15 pounds per day per person. During fall season, August 15 to October 31, count no more than 50 shrimp per pound.
Fish for shrimp in outside waters (the Gulf) between December 1 and November 30. Keep only 100 pounds per person per day.