Page 44 - South Mississippi Living - July, 2025

FRESH
CATCH:
Shrimp Season
COMMON GULF SHRIMP VARIETIES:
Brown Shrimp
(Farfantepenaeus aztecus)
Firm, earthy; most common in summer.
White Shrimp
(Litopenaeus setiferus)
Milder and sweeter; peak in late summer to fall.
Pink Shrimp
(Farfantepenaeus duorarum) Delicate, sweet; found in deeper waters.
GREAT OUTDOORS
story by Kelsey Sunderman-Foster photo courtesy of MDMR
Summer signals the start of shrimp season on the Mississippi Gulf Coast—a beloved time marked by tradition, flavor, and a deep connection to the Gulf’s natural bounty. Shrimping has long been a way of life here, with generations of families rising before sunrise to haul in nets brimming with wild Gulf shrimp. For locals and visitors alike, few things rival the taste of shrimp caught just hours earlier.
Shrimp season typically opens in June,
when Mississippi waters reach the optimal temperature to support mature brown shrimp populations. The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) manages the season’s start based on thorough sampling and data analysis, ensuring the sustainability of this vital fishery. MDMR also enforces important regulations such as license requirements, legal catch sizes, and allowable gear, all designed to protect juvenile shrimp and the overall health of marine ecosystems. Recreational shrimpers must hold a license, while commercial shrimpers follow specific
trawl net guidelines and restricted harvest zones.
If you’re ready to enjoy the season’s best catch, head straight to the docks. Harbors in Biloxi, Pass Christian, Ocean Springs, and Bayou Caddy welcome shrimp boats daily, often offering shrimp right off the boat. For added convenience, seafood markets like Desporte & Sons and Quality Poultry & Seafood in Biloxi, Kimball’s Seafood in Pass Christian, Gulf Fresh Seafood in Gulfport, Long Beach Seafood in Long Beach, and Gautier’s at the Harbor in Gautier offer fresh Gulf shrimp all season long. Many local farmers markets and community co-ops also carry wild-caught shrimp from regional suppliers.
More than just a seasonal delicacy, shrimping reflects the Mississippi Gulf Coast’s culture of resilience, stewardship, and shared heritage. With MDMR’s continued leadership, this vital tradition is carefully preserved so future generations can enjoy the same sweet, wild taste of the Gulf.
44 | July 2025
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