The shrimp fisheries of Baja California Sur, Sinaloa, and Nayarit will reopen for commercial activity between September 10 and 25. This period marks the end of a temporary fishing ban designed to protect the reproductive cycles, recruitment, and growth of shrimp species. By adhering to these strict measures, Mexico’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development aims to ensure both the viability of the shrimp population and the continued profitability of the industry.

Protecting reproduction and growth

The closure of shrimp fisheries is part of a broader effort to manage the Pacific and Gulf of California’s delicate marine ecosystems. The temporary ban allows shrimp to reach sizes of greater commercial value while maintaining a sufficient biomass for future fishing seasons.

The timing of the reopening was based on the technical recommendations of the Mexican Institute for Research in Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture (IMIPAS), ensuring that the fisheries can operate without undermining the species’ long-term sustainability.

Phased reopening across regions

The fishing ban will be lifted in stages, with different areas being reopened progressively. From September 10, shrimpers will resume operations in the lagoon, estuarine, marsh, and bay systems of Nayarit. On September 18, the Magdalena-Almejas Bay lagoon system in Baja California Sur will follow suit. Finally, on September 25, the fishing ban will end in the southern estuarine systems of Sinaloa.

These phased reopenings are intended to prevent over-exploitation of shrimp stocks and allow for the orderly management of resources. By coordinating the staggered fishing calendar with natural biological events, the government seeks to safeguard shrimp populations while ensuring that fishermen can harvest shrimp at sizes that maximize economic value.

Regulation and sustainability at the forefront

The Ministry of Agriculture has been clear that the reopening is not a free-for-all. Strict rules will govern fishing practices to preserve both the shrimp population and the health of local ecosystems. The Agreement regulating the reopening was published in the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF) and will be enforced by the National Commission for Aquaculture and Fisheries (Conapesca), in coordination with the Ministry of the Navy.