The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is urging commercial shrimpers to participate in its 2019 shrimp bycatch study.

The voluntary study was developed as part of the Department’s commitment to support the sustainability certification of Louisiana’s shrimp fishery. The study is designed to collect bycatch data during commercial shrimping trips throughout state waters.

Participation will require commercial shrimpers to allow LDWF staff onboard their vessels during designated trips throughout the 2019 shrimp seasons. LDWF staff will collect a sample from each haul.  Shrimp and other commercial harvest will be sampled onboard the vessel and retained by the commercial fisherman.  The remainder of the catch will either be processed on board or held for later processing, depending on conditions.

Most trips will begin at 5 a.m. at the location of the final sale and must conclude by 5 p.m. at the same location.  A very limited number of trips will take place at night, beginning at 5 p.m. and concluding at 5 a.m. Participating fishermen will receive $350.00 compensation per trip.

To register as a potential participant in the 2019 shrimp bycatch study, click here. A background check and vessel/site inspection is required of each participating fisherman. LDWF will randomly select participants based on gear type and basin. The online registration portal will close on December 3, 2018.

For more information, contact Peyton Cagle (337) 491-2575 or [email protected].