Top Rock Shrimp Fishing Countries

Rock shrimp (Sicyonia brevirostris) are a hardy, deep-water shrimp species found primarily in the warm waters of the western Atlantic Ocean, particularly off the southeastern coast of the United States. Known for their tough shells and sweet, lobster-like flavor, rock shrimp are a valuable catch for commercial fisheries. The United States, especially Florida, is the leading country in rock shrimp harvesting, with a well-established industry that developed in the mid-20th century after the invention of specialized processing equipment to handle their hard shells. While smaller quantities are caught in the Caribbean and parts of Central and South America, the U.S. remains the dominant producer, supplying both domestic and international markets with this sought-after seafood. The rock shrimp fishery is tightly managed in the U.S. to ensure sustainability, with quotas and seasonal closures regulated by agencies such as NOAA.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.