At its February meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) proposed changes aimed at increasing shrimp harvest opportunities in northeast Florida. The proposed adjustments include raising the dead shrimp allowance for commercial live bait harvesters from 1 gallon to 5 gallons. Additionally, a portion of Pumpkin Hill Creek in Duval County would be opened to both commercial and recreational shrimp harvesting from the Nassau River to Tiger Point, specifically from September through December each year.
The FWC plans to continue gathering input on these proposed rules before a final rule hearing scheduled for May 2025. Individuals interested in submitting public comments can do so via MyFWC.com/SaltwaterComments or by emailing Marine@MyFWC.com.
Further details, including the presentation from the February 2025 Commission Meeting, are available at MyFWC.com/Commission under "Commission Meetings." Current regulations for commercial and recreational shrimp fishing can be found by visiting MyFWC.com/fishing and selecting either "Saltwater Commercial Regulations" or "Saltwater Recreational Regulations."