A Florida recreational shrimper can use no more than four traps.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, shrimp traps may be used by any recreational harvester in possession of a recreational saltwater fishing license, with a few restrictions. Most areas of the state have no seasonal limitations, but there is a five-gallon heads-on bag limit per day, per person.
Trap Limit and Size Dimensions
Florida law stipulates that shrimp harvesters use no more than four shrimp traps per person. Shrimp traps must be no larger than 36 inches long by 24 inches wide by 12 inches high. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission prohibits any additional, external implementation that channels or guides shrimp into the trap.
Seasonal Restrictions
Shrimp traps may be used year-round, with the exception of a few counties. In April and May, all shrimp harvesting is prohibited in Clay, Flagler, Putnam, Nassau, Duval and St. Johns counties.
Harvester Tags
All shrimp traps must be identified and outfitted with the harvester's name and address. Failure to identify your shrimp trap may lead to confiscation by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Public and Private Property Restrictions
Shrimp traps may be used on public or private property. If the harvester is using public property, he must be present while his shrimp trap is in the water.
Regional Restrictions
Shrimp traps may be used in most Florida waterways, but some restrictions apply at the local level. The five regional offices of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are responsible for designating restricted shrimp trap areas every year. For a complete listing of contact info for the five regional offices, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website.
Tags: Conservation Commission, Fish Wildlife, Fish Wildlife Conservation, Florida Fish, Florida Fish Wildlife