Alabama State Waters to Reopen for Shrimp Harvesting on June 1
Seafood industry contributes more than $400 million annually to Alabama’s economy
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) has announced that shrimp harvesting in State waters will resume at 6 AM on Sunday, June 1, 2025. This reopening applies to all inside waters not permanently closed by law or regulation, including Mobile Bay, Bon Secour Bay, Mississippi Sound, Perdido Bay, Arnica Bay, Wolf Bay, and Little Lagoon.
The seasonal closure, which began on May 1, is a conservation measure to allow juvenile shrimp to mature to harvestable sizes. This practice supports the sustainability of Alabama's shrimp populations.
Licensed live bait dealers with permits for Special Live Bait Areas should note that the designated area adjacent to the Battleship Alabama, south of the Tensaw River Bridge, will be open daily from one hour before sunrise until sunset from June 1 through December 31, 2025.
The shrimping industry plays a vital role in Alabama's coastal economy. In 2022, commercial wild-shrimp landings in the state totaled 24.28 million pounds, valued at over $52 million. The broader seafood industry, encompassing harvesting, processing, and distribution, generated approximately 6,971 jobs and contributed $442.9 million in sales impacts that year.
Bayou La Batre, often referred to as the "Seafood Capital of Alabama," is a significant hub for shrimping activities. The port city averages $30 million annually in seafood landings, with shrimp being the most valuable catch.
However, the industry faces challenges from imported shrimp, which often sell at lower prices. In response, the U.S. International Trade Commission imposed duties on shrimp imports from countries like Ecuador, India, Indonesia, and Vietnam after investigations revealed unfair trade practices. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) praised the decision, stating, "Shrimping has long been a hallmark of Alabama's fishing industry, and this rule enables our shrimpers to compete on the same level as our foreign competitors."
For further information, contact the Marine Resources Division at (251) 861-2882. Additional details and updates are available on the ADCNR website at www.outdooralabama.com.
