Skagit spot shrimping season closed as low populations reported

Also known as prawns, spot shrimp are the largest shrimp in Puget Sound and may grow up to nine inches in length.

Close-up of an orange shrimp on a dark railing, with a blurred sea in the background.

ContributedSide view of a spot shrimp on boat railing. Photo courtesy of Washington Dept. of Fish and Wildlife

SKAGIT COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Spot shrimp pots will stay dry in Deception Pass and Skagit Bay this season.

State fishery managers say Marine Area 8-1 will not open for recreational spot shrimp due to low populations confirmed in recent test fishing.

Officials say the closure is aimed at rebuilding the struggling spot shrimp population. Also known as prawns, spot shrimp are the largest shrimp in Puget Sound and may grow up to nine inches in length.

“[Washington Dept. of Fish and Wildlife] and tribal co-managers have agreed closing all spot shrimp fisheries is the best course of action for this year. We recognize the impact this has on our recreational shrimpers but are also committed to rebuilding the Puget Sound spot shrimp population,” WDFW Puget Sound shrimp manager Katelyn Bosley said.

There is some access, though. The area will open June 1 for non-spot shrimp only.

Rules limit shrimping to waters shallower than 175 feet, and any spot shrimp caught must be released immediately.

Shrimping in all of Marine Area 7, including Bellingham Bay, will open as scheduled for all shrimp species. In marine areas open for spot shrimp, all shrimp can be kept as part of the daily limit.