#06–307 November 13, 2006
Shrimp-baiting season closes Nov. 13
The S.C. Department of Natural Resources reminds the public that the 2006
shrimp-baiting season closes at noon on Monday, Nov. 13. The season has been
open since Sept. 15.
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 2006 season.
“We won’t know for sure the outcome of the season until we get the surveys
back and analyzed,” said DNR biologist Larry DeLancey.
As of Nov. 7, 10,088 shrimp baiting licenses had been purchased—nine of
those by non-residents. In 2005, 9,001 shrimp baiting licenses were
purchased, and seven of those were by non-residents. In 2004, 10,614 shrimp
baiting licenses were purchased, and eight of those were by non-residents.
DNR law enforcement officers will continue monitoring after Nov. 13 to make
sure that no one is baiting out of season. The penalty for shrimping over
bait out of season is $465, and 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. From Dec. 16 through
April 30, it is unlawful for a person to have in their immediate control or
possession more than a total of 12 dozen dead or live shrimp per boat while
upon South Carolina waterways.
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) 953-9301.