Where to Buy Live Shrimp for Bait: A Complete Guide

Live shrimp are one of the most popular and effective baits for catching fish like trout, redfish, flounder, snook, and more. But finding a reliable source to buy quality live shrimp can be tricky. This complete guide will cover everything you need to know about buying live shrimp for bait.

Why Use Live Shrimp for Bait?

Live shrimp have a lot of advantages that make them one of the best bait options out there

• They attract almost every predatory inshore saltwater species. The scent and movement of live shrimp triggers strong feeding responses from fish.

• They are easy to hook through the horn or tail. The shrimp stays lively on the hook longer than dead bait.

• Healthy live shrimp survive for hours in a bait bucket or well so you can catch more fish per shrimp.

• Shrimp are available year-round in coastal areas. You don’t have to switch baits between seasons.

• Anglers of all experience levels have success with live shrimp. They work for beginners and seasoned pros alike.

So if you want to catch more and bigger fish, live shrimp are a go-to bait to have in your arsenal. Now let’s look at the best places to find them.

Where to Buy Live Shrimp

You have several options for sourcing live shrimp:

Local Bait Shops

The best option is often small local bait shops near popular fishing waters. These specialty shops stake their business on having great quality bait. Here are some advantages of local bait shops:

• Excellent freshness – The shrimp have less time between harvesting and sale.

• Knowledgeable staff – They can advise you on the best baits for different species in your area.

• Convenience – No need to order and have bait shipped.

• Support local businesses – Money stays in your fishing community.

• Build relationships – Get the inside scoop on what’s biting from other customers.

So check around marinas, public launches, and fishing piers for any small bait and tackle shops. Having a go-to local supplier for shrimp and other bait is ideal.

Big Box Retailers

Stores like Walmart, Academy Sports, Bass Pro Shops, and Cabela’s will also often stock live shrimp when in season. Here are some things to keep in mind when buying from big box retailers:

• Limited availability – Shrimp may frequently be out of stock.

• Questionable freshness – The shrimp may be shipped from far away.

• Higher prices – Less ability to buy in bulk quantity.

• Less expertise – Employees may have little knowledge about fishing.

But for convenience when your local shop is closed or out of stock, the big chains can work in a pinch. Just inspect the shrimp carefully for health and liveliness.

Online Retailers

In some areas, online retailers like eBay and specialty seafood websites may be the only options for getting live shrimp. Here are the pros and cons of buying shrimp online:

• Wider availability – Get shrimp even when they are out of season locally.

• Bulk discounts – Buy large quantities at lower cost per pound.

• Delivery to your door – No need to drive to pick up bait.

• Risk of DOAs – Shipping shrimp can lead to some deaths.

• Must order ahead – Not convenient for last minute trips.

If you go the online route, look for overnight shipping to reduce transit time and mortality. And check seller ratings carefully to verify they package shrimp well.

Do-It-Yourself Harvesting

The most hands-on option is buying your own shrimp trawl net or traps and harvesting shrimp yourself right before fishing. Here’s how DIY harvesting can pay off:

• Shrimp in the freshest shape possible.

• Fun process – Kids especially enjoy hauling in traps.

• No need to get bait before every trip.

• Potentially less costly long-term.

But keep in mind that trawling and trapping takes time, equipment, and learning. And there may be license requirements depending on regulations in your state.

What To Look For When Buying Live Shrimp

To ensure you get quality shrimp that will catch fish, here are some buying considerations:

Freshness

Check the condition of shrimp before purchasing:

• Lively swimming and jerky movements – Shrimp should not be lethargic or still

• Intact legs, antennae, and tail – Avoid any crushed or missing body parts

• Clear, shiny shells without white stress marks – Dull, milky shells mean lower quality

• Bright orange heads and tails – Faded color can mean they are old or sick

The fresher the shrimp, the better they will survive and attract fish. Pass on purchasing any dead or almost dead shrimp.

Size

Shrimp ranging from 20 to 50 count per pound are ideal bait sizes. Anything smaller may not stay hooked as well. For larger game fish, opt for jumbo 25-30 count shrimp. Match the hook size to shrimp size so they appear natural.

Color

Translucent gray or brown wild shrimp are best, versus darker farm-raised shrimp. The lighter color stands out in the water better for fish to see. Wild shrimp also tend to be heartier.

Price

Expect to pay around $8-$12 per pound for quality live shrimp from reputable sellers. Compare prices between a few sources to find the best value. Consider pooling money for bulk orders to save on costs.

Seasonality

Shrimp availability and costs fluctuate throughout the year:

• Winter – Low availability, highest prices

• Spring – Moderate supply and prices

• Summer/Fall – Peak abundance, lowest costs

Plan bait purchases based on seasonal changes and your fishing activity. Buy extra and freeze during peak seasons for later use.

Keeping Shrimp Alive From Store to Fishing Spot

The last key for success with live shrimp is keeping them lively from purchase until putting them on your line. Here are some proven methods:

• Use an aerated livewell – Oxygenated water keeps shrimp active.

• Place shrimp in damp seaweed or newspaper – Creates moist hiding places.

• Use ice packs – Prevents temperature spikes that can weaken shrimp.

• Add bait preservative chemicals – Reduces stress and ammonia buildup.

• Limit transportation time – The shorter the trip, the better.

Take great care of your live shrimp investment from start to finish. Healthy shrimp lead to more fish catches!

Following these tips will help you find an excellent live shrimp source and use them for maximum fishing success. Let us know in the comments about your best places to get shrimp and experiences using them for bait!