Central Florida shrimping season is in its last month of decent sizes and productivity. May normally marks the end of the winter season. However, we did get off to a six week late start. This season continues to gift us with jumbo size white shrimp (blue and green tail). Yes, we have seen them get mixed into our winter run for decades on a small level. This year, the big giants brought Brevard and Volusia Counties thrills, chills, captures and misses. Interesting as it may be, they did not come through last season in any great quantity. But, in the 2017 season, we had millions come through every night of the entire season. So, it is of great surprise to see these white crickets pass through our light fields in 2019 because they they send us no love in 2018.
Let me educate you about the significance of this white shrimp run. They run in the summer from S. Daytona to Jacksonville, from July through October. In summer of 2017, after months of the jumbo’s coming through at night on the off-months, the summer season produced only small shrimp. What will happen in the summer of 2019? I predict, not much. The last 4-5 years have been out of pattern and the summer shrimping cast net sport is in decline. Central Florida still has 30 boat flotilla’s but the reports are discouraging. However, this summer season is probably your greatest chance to net an Asian tiger.
The bio mass of dinks have hit Volusia and five gallon buckets will continue here through May. The smaller size collectively will out number your larger shrimp but are still well worth the chase. North Brevard has been moody; it was not magical this year but it’s been producing an average of 1-2 gallons of jumbo’s — just enough to keep the locals engaged. Titusville pier has not reported much, and counts are low in numbers. Haulover has not been magical this year, and that area rarely came up in any discussion. S. Brevard normally turns on around the Causeways this month, and they are reporting less 1-12 shrimp over multiple nights of trying. Sebastian inlet was the hot spot this season.
When you’re ready to hang your nets up for the season, be sure to spritz them with a solution of fabric softener and water (50/50 ratio). Rinse your gear well and bring your lights inside and keep them at room temperature. Scalloping season starts in June, so right now is a great time to service your boat and your trailer.
For whats going on shrimping, scalloping, lobster and other non-hook and line fishing genre’s, join us at Florida Shrimping Academy – Tips & Tricks. Education before all else.
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