Beaufort County, SC, September 23, 2025
News Summary
The shrimping industry in Beaufort County, South Carolina, is grappling with economic challenges due to low prices and competition from imported shrimp. Many shrimpers have exited the industry amid rising costs, further exacerbated by a recent controversy dubbed ‘shrimpgate,’ involving allegations of restaurants misrepresenting imported shrimp as local. Despite these challenges, local shrimpers like Captain Craig Reaves remain hopeful, emphasizing the importance of supporting regionally caught seafood and addressing quality concerns surrounding imports.
Beaufort County, South Carolina – Local Shrimpers Navigate Economic Turmoil Amid ‘Shrimpgate’ Controversy
The shrimping industry in Beaufort County, South Carolina, faces significant challenges due to low prices, increased costs, and fierce competition from foreign farm-raised shrimp. Many local shrimpers have been forced to exit the industry as these pressures mount. The situation has escalated with the emergence of a lawsuit alleging that some South Carolina restaurants are selling imported shrimp as local, sparking controversy labeled as “shrimpgate.” Compounding these challenges, recent findings of “nuclear shrimp” from Indonesia entering the U.S. market have raised concerns about the quality and safety of imported shrimp.
On the water, the Gracie Bell, an 80-foot-long trawler, continues to fish for white shrimp in the rich waters of Egg Bank in St. Helena Sound, operated by Captain Craig Reaves. The local shrimping season runs from mid-April to the end of January, with an emphasis on fall white shrimp. In 2024, South Carolina’s commercial fishermen caught 2.5 million pounds of shrimp, valued at $7.4 million—a stark reminder of the industry’s importance yet also of its declining numbers.
Reaves, who owns Sea Eagle Market, focuses on managing the entire supply chain of locally caught seafood from the catch to the sale. This business supports numerous local markets and serves approximately 65 restaurants across the state. Despite the ongoing market challenges, Reaves remains hopeful that increased scrutiny on foreign shrimp will lead consumers to appreciate the quality of locally caught shrimp.
The declining number of shrimp boats in Beaufort County reflects this economic downturn, which Reaves describes as a “dying breed.” Once, he recalls, 50-60 shrimp boats operated in the local waters, but this number has diminished significantly over the years. This decline is mirrored by historical shrimp catch sizes, which have faced their own reductions.
Additionally, sustainability and ethical concerns surrounding imported shrimp have been spotlighted, including allegations of forced labor and the use of harmful additives in shrimp farming. Amid these worries, the Trump administration’s tariffs on imported shrimp have provided some optimism among local shrimpers, as they enforce stricter rules that could benefit domestic producers.
On a recent fishing trip, Reaves and his crew caught approximately 700 pounds of white shrimp after hours of trawling. This not only showcases their commitment to quality but also underscores the connection to nature and the environment that comes with the shrimping tradition.
As Beaufort County shrimpers navigate this turbulent economic landscape, the resilience of Captain Reaves and others reflects a deep love for the freedom and beauty of life on the water, away from the distractions of urban life.
FAQ
What is the current situation of local shrimpers in Beaufort County?
Local shrimpers face challenges such as low prices, increased costs, and competition from foreign farm-raised shrimp. Many have been forced to exit the industry due to these pressures.
What controversy is impacting South Carolina seafood restaurants?
A lawsuit reveals allegations against South Carolina restaurants for selling imported shrimp as local, dubbed “shrimpgate.”
What are the implications of the shrimping industry on South Carolina’s economy?
In 2024, South Carolina’s commercial fishermen caught 2.5 million pounds of shrimp, valued at $7.4 million.
How has the number of commercial shrimp boats changed in Beaufort County?
The number of commercial shrimp boats in Beaufort County has drastically decreased over the years due to market pressures.
What are some concerns related to imported shrimp?
Sustainability concerns regarding imported shrimp include the use of forced labor and harmful additives.
How much shrimp did Reaves’ crew catch on a recent trip?
On a recent trip, Reaves and his crew caught approximately 700 pounds of white shrimp after extensive trawling.
Key Features of the Shrimping Situation in Beaufort County
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Challenges | Low prices, high costs, competition from imported shrimp. |
| Shrimp Catch Statistics | E.g., In 2024, 2.5 million pounds valued at $7.4 million. |
| Shrimping Season | Mid-April to end of January, focusing on fall white shrimp. |
| Number of Commercial Shrimp Boats | Significantly decreased over the years. |
| Recent Catch | Approximately 700 pounds of white shrimp caught in a recent trip. |
| Sustainability Concerns | Includes forced labor and harmful additives in imported shrimp. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Beaufort News
- Wikipedia: Shrimp
- Explore Beaufort SC: 2025 Shrimp Season
- Google Search: South Carolina shrimp industry
- Post and Courier: Local Shrimp Beaufort
- Google Scholar: shrimp fishing South Carolina
- Your Island News: Local Shrimping Legend
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shrimp
- WITN: State Senate Passes Bill on Shrimp Trawling
- Google News: local shrimpers South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
