In this study vessels from 13 Major shrimp ports were surveyed to determine the cost and earning structure for Gulf shrimp vessels. This information was combined with effort data for a sample of vessels spending 50 percent or more of their time on . the Tortugas shrimp grounds. Using both these series of data, broken down into vessel size categories and specifying the distribution of landings between three Florida ports, a linear programming model was developed for the express purpose of determining the optimal distribution of vessels between ports based upon the effort patterns, the • distribution of species and the cost components of vessel operations. Using constraints based on various assumptions results were derived which suggested considerable differences from current port use patterns. Social benefits derived from their application demonstrate the value of this technique.