Thread: Fresh Shrimp Question?

Why do you peel the shrimp? What is the difference between peeled and unpeeled?

Would you eat an unpeeled shrimp? Fish can be surprisingly picky at times. Easy meal versus having to pick around the shell. I've caught pomps that were hungry and ate the entire shrimp and then another time all they'd eat were peeled and cut into small pieces.

I ask a wise man this question he said "you don't eat candy with the wrapper on" Harley R. It was clear after that explanation. Now when I was cut bait I scrap the scales off.

And its a heck a lot easier to cut it up into 1/2" chunk when its peeled.

Just don't peel the live ones, they don't like it!

Originally Posted by Irish Fisherman

Why do you peel the shrimp? What is the difference between peeled and unpeeled?

Fresh-dead peeled shrimp seem to release a scent that some species (pompano, whiting, etc) find attractive and they locate your bait more easily/quickly. I've observed this phenomenon with redfish and black drum, too, in relatively clear water, where you see them react to the scent of the bait before they visually focus on it.

Originally Posted by FinChaser

Just don't peel the live ones, they don't like it!

They are quite shy, don't like being nekid.

Thank you! I will definitely peel them.