- Tampa’s Versaggi Shrimp Company, once a fleet of 55 boats, is now down to just five.
- Shrimpers said cheaper imports and rising costs are pushing the local industry toward extinction; 90% of shrimp consumed in the U.S. is imported.
- The Versaggi family, in business since 1912, hopes new tariffs and community support can help keep local shrimping alive.
“If you’re going to buy a cheaper product, don’t take pictures of our boats, of our nets, our fishermen, our livelihood, and then sell shrimp from Ecuador that was farm-raised in a pond, with chemicals and antibiotics,” Versaggi said about local restaurants using foreign shrimp.
“This is a culture worth saving. There’s a lot of pride in coastal communities. We’re not asking for handouts — we just want to keep fishing.”
“Fishing families are now trying to divert their children away from the industry,” said Sal Versaggi. “I don’t see how people can stay in the business.”
The Versaggi family is hopeful new tariffs on foreign shrimp could level the playing field and boost demand for domestic product. In the meantime, they’re asking Floridians to support local fishermen — and buy directly from the docks.
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