Shrimp fishing in Prince William Sound is a popular activity during the warmer months, typically from late April to early September. Shrimp season is at its peak in July and August when the water is warmer, and the shrimp are more abundant. To get started, you’ll need the right gear, including a shrimp pot, a sturdy rope, bait (such as herring or squid), a bait bag, and gloves to protect your hands.
Once you have your gear, it’s time to find the best location to fish for shrimp. There are several spots near Whittier that are great for shrimp fishing, including Passage Canal, Port Wells, Culross Passage, Blackstone Bay, and Harriman Fjord.
- Passage Canal is a popular choice for its narrow, deep-water fjord, and rocky areas with sandy bottoms. Look for underwater ledges and rocky outcroppings where shrimp tend to congregate.
- Port Wells is another great location, with shallow waters near the shore that can be particularly productive.
- Culross Passage, with its strong tidal currents, is known for its rocky structures and sandy bottoms.
- Blackstone Bay is also an excellent spot, offering shallow areas with good tidal flow and rocky structures.
- Harriman Fjord is a long, narrow fjord with deep, cold waters and rocky outcroppings where shrimp tend to gather.
To catch shrimp, you’ll need to set up your shrimp pot correctly. Begin by filling the bait bag with your chosen bait and placing it in the center of the pot. Next, tie the rope to the pot and lower it into the water, making sure to mark the location of the pot with a buoy. Allow the pot to sit on the ocean floor for at least 12 hours, giving the shrimp time to find their way into the trap.
After the waiting period, it’s time to retrieve your pot. Slowly pull up the rope, making sure to keep it steady to avoid losing any shrimp that may have escaped. Once the pot is on board, carefully remove the bait bag and dump the shrimp into a cooler filled with ice.
It’s important to remember that before setting out on your fishing trip, you should always research local regulations to ensure you are following guidelines on the amount of shrimp you can catch and the type of gear you can use. Additionally, it’s crucial to practice responsible fishing techniques, such as properly disposing of any unused bait or gear and releasing any undersized or unwanted catch.
Conclusion
Shrimp fishing in Prince William Sound is a fun and rewarding experience for any angler. By following these basic steps, you can increase your chances of a successful shrimp catch. Remember to research the best locations near Whittier, gather the necessary gear, and set up your shrimp pot correctly. With a little patience and luck, you can enjoy a delicious meal of fresh, locally caught shrimp.
This post may contain AI generated content. It has been reviewed by a human but may not be 100% accurate.
