Shrimps and Prawns

The six species of shrimp that thrive off the British Columbia coast all belong to the same family, Panadalidae.

Anglers may sport fish for shrimp only by means of traps, ring nets, or spear while diving. Sport fishers using traps or nets are only permitted to use a maximum of 4 shrimp or prawn traps, ring nets, or a combination of these.

A mechanical device may be used to recover traps.

The daily limit for shrimp, which includes prawns, is 200. The possession limit is 400 shrimp (twice the daily limit).

For conservation purposes, prawns carrying eggs under their tail should be released.

For information regarding the type of trap that can be used to harvest shrimps and prawns please visit the Gear web page.

Visit shrimp and prawn biology for further information.