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How to Shrimp With Skimmers

Shrimp skimmers employ a large net that encloses a fixed frame. Shrimpers let the skimmers out over the boat and allow them to float near the bottom of the water. When shrimp swim into the skimmer, the net pulls them into the boat. To catch shrimp with skimmers, you will need to obtain a shrimping license from your local Fish and Wildlife Department and obey the local laws regarding shrimping season, limits and hours.

Things You'll Need

Boat
Depth finder
Stick with hook attached
Long rope
Shrimp skimmers with clasps
Tape measure
Large floaters

Instructions

- 1
  Tie the clasp on at the end of the skimmer to the end of the rope. Tie the other end of the rope firmly to the boat.
- 2
  Use the depth finder to check the depth of the water at your location. Measure out to this depth along the rope, starting at the clasp. If you do not have a measuring device, hold your two hands outstretched in front of you -- each length of rope that fits within this space will be about one yard. Once you have measured the depth of the water on the rope, tie the float in this location.
- 3
  Throw the skimmer off the edge of the boat. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 for all of your shrimp skimmers, but set them in different locations to increase your chances of catching shrimp.
- 4
  Turn back around to the first skimmer once you have set them all. Grab the float by reaching out with the hooked stick and pulling on the rope. Bring it near the boat so that you can grab it with your hands. Pull the skimmer net up and remove the shrimp.

Animals & Science