Wild caught shrimp is becoming an increasingly popular item that many consumers want access to. However, it can be difficult to find good sources of high-quality wild caught shrimp, especially if you don’t live near the coast. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about buying wild caught shrimp and where to find it near you.

Why Choose Wild Caught Shrimp?

There are a few key reasons why wild caught shrimp is generally considered superior to farm-raised shrimp:

• Flavor – Wild caught shrimp have a stronger, sweeter flavor thanks to their natural diet of algae and plankton. Farm-raised shrimp are often given feed which dulls their flavor profile.

• Texture – The shells and meat of wild caught shrimp are naturally firmer giving them a satisfying “snap” when bitten into. Farm-raised shrimp are more likely to have soft almost mushy flesh.

• Health – Wild shrimp boast higher levels of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids compared to farm-raised. Their diet provides them with more nutrients.

• Sustainability – Wild shrimp fisheries in the U.S. are well-managed and regulated for sustainability. Some farm-raised shrimp operations have concerning environmental practices.

So for the best flavor, texture, nutrition, and eco-friendly choice, wild caught shrimp is the way to go. The only catch is that it can be harder to find and a bit pricier than farmed shrimp. But it’s worth it!

Where to Buy Wild Caught Shrimp

You have a few options when it comes to finding sources of quality wild caught shrimp depending on where you live. Here are some of the best places to check out:

Local Fish Markets

One of the best ways to get your hands on fresh-caught wild shrimp is to visit a local fish market or seafood shop. Look for a reputable market known for carrying high quality products and sustainable seafood.

The benefit of fish markets is you can often find wild caught shrimp from local fishermen. This supports local fisheries and means the shrimp is ultra fresh. Talk to the fishmonger to find out exactly where their shrimp comes from.

I’m lucky to have a great fish market near me called Hancock’s Seafood Market. Their shrimp boats dock right behind the market, so I know I’m getting the freshest Gulf shrimp possible. The shrimp tastes amazing when quickly sautéed in garlic butter or thrown on the barbecue.

National Chain Grocery Stores

Major supermarket chains like Kroger, Publix, HEB, etc. have also ramped up their seafood departments in recent years. It’s become easier to find wild caught shrimp from the U.S. Gulf or other sustainable fisheries at large chain grocers.

For instance, Whole Foods commits to only selling wild caught and sustainably farmed seafood. They work with Gulf shrimp fisheries like Wild American Shrimp to provide a reliable source of chemical-free, Gulf wild shrimp.

Ask your local grocery seafood clerk if they carry Gulf shrimp. Let them know you specifically want American wild caught shrimp, not imported farmed shrimp. This helps stores gauge demand and stock more wild shrimp.

Online Retailers

If you don’t have a good fish market or grocery store nearby, don’t worry! The internet has enabled several shrimp and seafood companies to ship fresh wild caught shrimp overnight nationwide.

For instance check out Biloxi Shrimp Company. They partner with small day boats along the Gulf Coast to sell premium wild shrimp online. You can order Gulf shrimp in multiple sizes and preparations like head-on, EZ peel, already peeled, etc. It’s flash frozen at their facility then packed with dry ice for guaranteed freshness.

Wild Fork Foods is another great option that ships sustainable seafood like Gulf shrimp, scallops, salmon and more to your door. Their online ordering and shipping process ensures you get incredibly fresh seafood no matter where you live.

Online retailers provide easy access to high-end wild caught shrimp that can rival your local fish markets. Perfect for landlocked seafood lovers!

What Size and Type of Shrimp to Buy

Once you find a good source for wild shrimp, what exactly should you be looking for? Here are some tips on the best sizes and preparations to buy:

• Jumbo (U/15 or 16/20 count): Jumbo shrimp are the largest shrimp available and perfect for serving as a main course. Go for 16/20 or larger U/15 for cocktails.

• Extra Large or Colossal (21/25 count): Not quite jumbo size but still big and flavorful. Great for shrimp tacos, skewers or sautés.

• Large (26/30 to 36/40 count): A versatile mid-range size shrimp. Works for many recipes and presentations.

• Medium (41/50 count): Smaller shrimp perfect for tossed shrimp salads or sauteeing for pasta.

• Peeled & Deveined: Skip the hassle of prep and buy shrimp already peeled and deveined. Just thaw and cook.

• Shell-On: More flavor and texture. Go for shell-on head-off shrimp if you don’t want to eat the heads.

• EZ Peel: Special processed shrimp that make peeling a cinch after cooking. Great for grilling.

Mix up sizes and types of shrimp to enjoy different textures and uses. Larger shrimp are generally better for serving as main dishes while smaller ones work great in pasta dishes, salads and apps.

How Much Per Pound?

Of course, we can’t talk about buying shrimp without addressing the price. Wild caught shrimp is going to cost more than farmed imported shrimp. You may pay anywhere from:

• $8-$12 per pound for smaller wild shrimp
• $15-$18 per pound for extra large and jumbo
• $22-$30+ per pound for colossal U-12 or larger

While not cheap, this gets you high-quality, sustainable, and incredibly delicious shrimp. Think of it as a special treat and splurge every once in awhile or for special occasions. Buying direct from retailers can also save you a few dollars per pound versus restaurants.

Alternatively, buy a combo of some pricier colossal shrimp for wow-factor appetizers, then fill out the meal with lower cost medium or salad shrimp. There are ways to enjoy wild shrimp on a budget!

Time Your Purchase for Peak Freshness

One final tip – try to time your wild shrimp purchase just before or during peak season for ultimate freshness. Gulf wild shrimp season happens May through July. Meanwhile, wild shrimp from the Carolinas peak from July to September.

Shop in season and you’ll get the freshest batch of that year’s shrimp. Out of season can mean frozen from last year’s catch. Still delicious but fresher is better with seafood.

In Conclusion

Sourcing high-quality wild caught shrimp is easier nowadays thanks to seafood markets, grocery stores and online retailers making it more available. With this guide, you should have no problem finding and buying delicious, sustainable wild shrimp regardless of where you live.

Just remember to look for Gulf or U.S. wild caught shrimp, choose your preferred size and preparation, and consider buying direct from a reputable retailer. Following these tips will ensure you get the best tasting, highest quality wild American shrimp to enjoy.