The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced the extension of the state’s recreational and commercial food shrimp season. Originally slated to conclude on December 31, the season will now persist until 6:20 p.m. on January 18, 2024. This extension is in response to the exceptional size of Georgia’s shrimp population in December, surpassing the 20-year average, prompting DNR Commissioner Walter Rabon to sign an administrative order prolonging the season.

“We’re happy to announce this extension for Georgia’s shrimpers,” expressed Carolyn Belcher, chief of fisheries for DNR’s Coastal Resources Division, which oversees state commercial and recreational marine fisheries. “Our recent monitoring surveys revealed shrimp exceeding 20-year average size, indicating a healthy population well-prepared for continued sustainable harvest.”

This extension grants commercial shrimpers the continued use of power-drawn nets, while recreational shrimpers can employ cast nets and seine nets within the three-mile territorial waters of the state. All standard commercial and recreational shrimping laws remain in effect during this extension, including the use of turtle-excluder devices for commercial vessels and adhering to the daily limits for recreational food shrimpers using cast nets and seines.

“The extended season presents a fantastic opportunity for both seasoned shrimpers and those just starting out,” remarked Belcher. “With the larger-than-average shrimp readily available, it’s a perfect time to enjoy this exciting activity and savor a coastal Georgia favorite.”