#05-231 October 31, 2005

Shrimp-Baiting Season Closes Tuesday, Nov. 8

The S.C. Department of Natural Resources reminds the public that the 2005 shrimp-baiting season closes at noon Tuesday, Nov. 8. The season has been open since Sept. 9.

Shrimp-baiting season is the 60-day period each year when recreational shrimpers who purchase a shrimp-baiting license can cast for shrimp over bait.

The S.C. Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will obtain specific information from a post-season survey that will be mailed to a random number of shrimp-baiting permit holders shortly following the end of the season. This survey collects basic information that the DNR will use to estimate the catch, effort and participation for the 2005 season.

"We won't know for sure the outcome of the season until we get the surveys back and analyzed," said DNR biologist Julia Byrd.

A total of 8,962 shrimp baiting licenses have been purchased in 2005 (as of Oct. 25). In 2004, 10,617 shrimp baiting licenses were purchased. In 2003, 12,462 shrimp baiting licenses were purchased. In 2002, 13,901 licenses were purchased, and in 2001, 13,693 licenses were purchased.

DNR law enforcement officers will continue monitoring after Nov. 8 to make sure that no one is baiting out of season. The penalty for shrimping over bait out of season (with court costs) is $465. The shrimp, boat, motor and trailer are all seized as contraband, and the violator may face imprisonment for not more than 30 days. In addition, the person's privilege to catch shrimp over bait is suspended for two years from the date of conviction.

The public is reminded of Coast Watch, which was developed to better help citizens report violations of saltwater recreational and commercial fishing laws, as well as marine environmental laws. The Coast Watch hotline number (1-800-922-5431) is toll-free and available 24 hours a day.
For more information on shrimp baiting, call the S.C. Department of Natural Resources in Charleston at (843) 953-9031.

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