The Shrimp Boat Tradition

Watching shrimp trawlers coming into the home port at sunset, with mighty nets raised and followed by an entourage of hungry seagulls, is a cherished Lowcountry tradition. The shrimping industry has been an integral part of the South Carolina economy for nearly a century, but farm-raised imported shrimp has had a big impact on the market and has caused the number of shrimpers to dwindle across the state.

The season for fresh-caught shrimp is May to December. People can support local fishermen by buying only certified, local wild shrimp from stores or from the shrimpers directly. In restaurants, look for the "Certified Wild American Shrimp" logo or ask your server if they use local seafood.

On Hilton Head, Benny Hudson Seafood sells local shrimp straight from the dock at 175 Squire Pope Road, or visit South End Seafood at 18 Executive Park Road. In Bluffton, the Bluffton Oyster Company has been selling fresh oysters, clams, crabs, and shrimp since 1899 at 63 Wharf Street. Gay Fish Company on Saint Helena Island or Sea Eagle Market in Beaufort are other local businesses that are keeping the tradition alive in South Carolina.