Derrick and D'Angelo stack bags of shrimp on pallets at Versaggi Shrimp Co. docks
Despite existential challenges, Tampa’s Versaggi Shrimp Co. continues to bring wild-caught seafood to Bay area tables
Tucked away behind the shadow of downtown Tampa and docked patiently on the pier of the Tampa Shrimp Docks, a handful of rusty boats await their next month-long voyage. Justin Versaggi, the fourth-generation leader of the Versaggi Shrimp Co. sits in his office, unsure if the next ship he sends out will make a profit.
The over-century-old family business which originated in Fernandina Beach has seen a gradual decline from its heyday, when its shrimping empire stretched from Texas, along the Gulf Coast, and down to South America, with ports in French Guiana and Brazil. The Tampa Tribune said that in 1969, the company had 33 boats. Today, just five boats call a single port authority dock home.
“There's so many small coastal community families that earn a living on the water,” said Versaggi. “And the way we're headed right now, it's going to be extinct. And once it's gone, you can't get it back.”
