The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is encouraging commercial shrimpers to participate in its 2019 shrimp bycatch study. To ensure the study’s success, LDWF needs a wider range of participation from commercial shrimpers throughout each major basin and greater variation in the types of gear being used.

The voluntary study was requested by the shrimp industry to collect bycatch data during commercial shrimping trips throughout state waters. The study supports the sustainability certification of Louisiana’s shrimp fishery, permitting Louisiana shrimp access to additional markets.

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. Commercial fishermen will retain all shrimp and other commercial harvest sampled onboard their vessel. The remainder of the catch will either be processed onboard 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; there may be some flexibility in start and end times. A very limited number of trips will take place at night, beginning at 5 p.m. and concluding at 5 a.m.

LDWF will randomly select participants based on gear type and basin. Participating fishermen will receive $350.00 in compensation per trip.

To register, click here. A background check and vessel/site inspection is required of each participating fisherman. The online registration portal will close on February 4, 2019.

If you have questions about the program, or want more information, contact Peyton Cagle (337) 491-2575 or [email protected] .

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources. For more information, visit us at www.wlf.la.gov. To receive email alerts, signup at http://www.wlf.la.gov/signup.