Can You Identify This Shrimp?

August 7, 2018

Question: In May of 2016, this shrimp drifted by our boat at night while we were fishing for squid on the south side of Catalina Island. I have been unable to identify it. Can you tell me what it is? (Kenny)

Answer: This is a target prawn (Sicyonia penicillata), also known as rock shrimp due to the rock-like hardness of the shell. They are commonly found along the Gulf of California and on the western coast of the Baja California peninsula. You may take any type of ocean shrimp in California waters. If you’re interested in learning how to fish for these interesting shellfish, please check out the crustaceans section of the current Ocean Sport Fishing regulations for the regulations, legal gear, limits and other information you will need to know (California Code of Regulations Title 14, sections 29.05, 29.10 and 29.80).