Pink Shrimp

Pink shrimp is a small crustacean found along the West Coast from southeast Alaska to southern California. They live in water between 150 and 1200 feet deep and are most abundant off the Oregon Coast. Ocean, or “bay” pink shrimp are small, typically growing to only one inch in length. They aggregate near muddy bottom habitats and move into shallow waters at night to feed on zooplankton such as krill and copepods. Pink shrimp may live up to five years, and individuals change sexes from male to female after reaching one and a half years. Predators include fishes such as Pacific whiting, sablefish and Petrale sole.

Overall availability

Pink shrimp is fished in all three West Coast states, but are most abundant in Oregon and Washington. These shrimp are small and have a mild, sweet flavor and delicate texture. After they are caught, processors peel, cook, and freeze them using an Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) method. Frozen product can be found year-round, with fresh product available in season.

Management

Pink shrimp is fished commercially using trawl gear. The fishery is managed by each state's Departments of Fish and Wildlife (CA, OR, WA).

More Information

Other Common names: Coldwater shrimp, salad shrimp