The Gulf of Mexico is known for its rich waters, teeming with fresh and delicious seafood. From shrimp to oysters, the Gulf offers some of the best seafood you can find. If you’re a seafood lover, knowing what’s in season is key to getting the freshest catch.
Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect each month so you can plan your meals around the freshest options available.
January: Oysters and Shrimp
The month of January is perfect for oyster consumption. Oyster quality improves when the ocean water temperature decreases because it creates plump flesh with enhanced flavor. People usually consume fresh oysters through half shells or cook them into traditional oyster stew and Rockefeller.
During this period, Gulf shrimp are available commercially. Gulf shrimp provide sweet and tender meat with multiple cooking options. The seafood tokens maintain their taste even after variations in grilling, boiling, or sauteing methods.
February: Oysters, Shrimp, and Scallops
The ocean remains ideal for oyster harvesting throughout this period because of its cool temperature conditions. The perfect quality of these bivalves lasts the entire month long. Fresh shrimp availability remains abundant during this period, which becomes the perfect occasion to enjoy shrimp cocktails and shrimp pasta dishes.
Another great option is scallops. The Gulf waters provide scallops with a sweet, tender flesh. A pan-sear or addition to creamy scallop pasta dishes makes the most of these delectable shellfish.
March: Oysters, Shrimp, and Flounder
As spring begins to approach, the Gulf waters remain cold, continuing to bring in fresh oysters. March is a great month to enjoy these tasty treats. Shrimps are still plentiful and sweet. Flounder, a delicate flatfish, starts to come into season. It has a mild flavor and firm texture, making it great for grilling or pan-frying. The Jellyfish Bar, with its menu of Gulf seafood, serves up the freshest flounder and other seasonal dishes for you to enjoy.
April: Shrimp, Flounder, and Red Snapper
April marks the start of a more exciting variety of seafood. Gulf shrimp are still in season, and flounder continues to be available. But the highlight of the month is red snapper.
This fish is a Gulf favorite, and for good reason. Its firm, white flesh and slightly sweet taste make it a perfect choice for grilling or baking. Head over to The Jellyfish Bar for a delicious red snapper dish. Their menu often features fresh, locally sourced seafood, allowing you to enjoy the best of the Gulf.
May: Shrimp, Red Snapper, and Grouper
May is another fantastic month for seafood. The Gulf shrimp are still abundant, and red snapper continues to be a popular choice. Another must-try fish in May is grouper. Grouper has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a firm texture. It is perfect for grilling, baking, or broiling.
June: Shrimp, Red Snapper, Grouper, and Mahi Mahi
June brings in even more options. The shrimp season is in full swing, and you can expect to see plenty of red snapper and grouper on the menu. Another fish that makes an appearance in June is the mahi mahi. This tropical fish has a firm texture and a mild flavor. It’s great grilled, blackened, or in fish tacos.
July: Shrimp, Grouper, Mahi Mahi, and Snapper
The summer months are great for seafood lovers. Shrimp, grouper, and mahi mahi are all abundant in July. You’ll also find plenty of snapper, which is perfect for grilling or frying.
The warm weather makes it ideal for lighter seafood dishes like grilled fish tacos or shrimp salads. The Jellyfish Bar serves up delicious summer dishes featuring the best of the Gulf, from mahi mahi to grouper. Don’t miss their fresh seafood platters for a true taste of the Gulf.
August: Shrimp, Grouper, Mahi Mahi, and Amberjack
August is another fantastic month for fresh seafood. Gulf shrimp are still in season, and grouper and mahi mahi are as fresh as ever. If you’re looking for something a bit different, amberjack is a great choice. This firm, meaty fish has a bold flavor that stands up well to grilling or smoking.
September: Shrimp, Grouper, Mahi Mahi, and Amberjack
September is similar to August in terms of available seafood. Shrimp, grouper, mahi mahi, and amberjack are still abundant. As the season winds down, these fish remain in great condition, perfect for all sorts of preparations. The Jellyfish Bar continues to bring in the freshest catches, ensuring that your meal is both delicious and sustainable.
October: Oysters, Shrimp, Flounder, and Trout
As the weather starts to cool down, oysters come back into season. October is a great month to enjoy oysters, especially as the weather gets a bit chillier. Shrimp remain plentiful, and you’ll also find flounder and trout available.
November: Oysters, Shrimp, Flounder, and Trout
November brings the same delicious seafood options as October. Oysters, shrimp, flounder, and trout are all available, making it a great time for seafood lovers. You’ll find a variety of ways to enjoy these seafood choices at The Jellyfish Bar.
December: Oysters, Shrimp, and Scallops
December brings a winter chill and, with it, a variety of seafood options. Oysters are still in season and are often enjoyed at holiday gatherings. Shrimp and scallops remain available, making them perfect for festive dishes. At The Jellyfish Bar, you can celebrate the season with fresh oysters and a range of seafood dishes that will leave you satisfied.
Conclusion
The Gulf of Mexico offers an abundance of fresh seafood all year long. By understanding what’s in season each month, you can enjoy the best seafood the region has to offer. Whether it’s oysters in the winter or snapper in the spring, there’s always something to look forward to. For the freshest Gulf seafood, head to The Jellyfish Bar, where you’ll find dishes made with the finest seasonal ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What months are best for Gulf shrimp?
Gulf shrimp are best from May through October. Warmer waters during these months boost shrimp harvests.
2. What is the best seafood from the Gulf?
Grouper, red snapper, oysters, and Gulf shrimp are top picks. Each offers rich flavor and is locally loved.
3. Which region has the best seafood?
The Gulf Coast, especially Louisiana and Florida, is famous for fresh, flavorful seafood. It’s a top spot for variety and quality.
4. How many months do shrimp last?
Frozen shrimp can last up to 6 months. Fresh shrimp should be eaten within 1–2 days.
5. Do shrimp go bad in the fridge?
Yes, raw shrimp goes bad after 1–2 days in the fridge. Cooked shrimp may last 3–4 days if stored properly.