Spot Shrimp on the Pacific Coast
Spot Shrimp are one of the most popular shellfish we can catch on the Pacific Coast and are a true delicacy. They are the largest of all the shrimp species and can be found from Alaska to California. Recreational shrimping is very popular in Washington, British Columbia and Alaska. Spot Shrimp can grow to over 8″ in length and the daily limits in every area are very generous.
How to Catch Spot Shrimp
Harvesting Spot Shrimp requires some pretty heavy duty equipment. But the payoff can be huge because of their abundance. They are found in deep water and every region has that sweet spot depth range which is usually between 200′ and 600′. Shrimping in deep water requires long lines, heavy pots, big buoys and definitely a pot puller. My favorite shrimp bait is a soggy mix of pellet bait, cat food, tuna and cat food.
Catching Spot Shrimp is a fairly straightforward process. You bait the pots, drop them down, let them soak, then haul up the pots with a pot puller. Bringing home a couple hundred shrimp for a day on the water is common.
Spot Shrimp Are Delicious!
Spot Shrimp are the most sought after cold water shrimp for some very good reasons. They are larger than other shrimp we catch along the North Pacific shoreline. They have an unbelievably sweet flavor. I have come across some elaborate recipes for shrimp but I always find that with these guys simple is best. On the grill, you don’t need to add a thing too them when they are fresh. If you wish, brush a little melted butter, garlic and lemon. You will be thrilled with the outcome.
Helpful Spot Shrimp Resources
Riptidefish Spot Shrimp Articles
Puget Sound Spot Shrimp
How To Catch Spot Shrimp
Alaska Fish and Game Spot Shrimp Page
Prince William Sound Spot Shrimp PDF
British Columbia Spot Shrimp Regulations
Washington Fish & Wildlife Shrimp Seasons
Oregon Fish & Wildlife Spot Prawn