114112 - Shellfish Fishing
The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) plays a crucial role in organizing and categorizing business activities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. One such important code within the Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting sector is NAICS code 114112 – Shellfish Fishing. This code is essential for businesses engaged in harvesting a variety of shellfish, ranging from clams to scallops, and is widely used by government agencies, contractors, and industry analysts to classify and understand this vital commercial sector.
What is NAICS Code 114112?
NAICS code 114112 specifically covers establishments primarily engaged in shellfish fishing. This includes the commercial harvesting of shellfish species such as clams, oysters, mussels, and scallops, sourced either from their natural habitats in oceans, rivers, and estuaries or through aquaculture (controlled farming operations).
Businesses operating under this code conduct activities that range from clam digging and oyster dredging to more specialized fisheries such as squid and sea urchin fishing. It plays a key role in supplying fresh and processed shellfish products to markets nationwide and supports coastal economies heavily reliant on sustainable seafood.
Sector Overview: Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
NAICS 114112 falls within the Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting sector, which encompasses establishments involved in growing crops, raising animals, harvesting timber, and fishing activities. Shellfish fishing is a specialized subsector that focuses on aquatic creatures with shells—fundamentally different from finfish or other seafood gathering operations.
Typical Business Activities Under NAICS 114112:
- Commercial oyster harvesting
- Clam fishing operations
- Scallop harvesting businesses
- Crabbing and lobster fishing
- Mussel fishing and aquaculture
- Shrimp and squid fishing
- Fisheries management and aquaculture related to shellfish
Size Standard for NAICS 114112
For government contracting and small business classifications, the small business size standard for NAICS code 114112 is $14 million in average annual receipts. This threshold is crucial for businesses aiming to qualify for Small Business Administration (SBA) programs, federal contracts, and other economic support opportunities.
Examples of Business Types Under NAICS 114112
- Commercial oyster farms supplying raw oysters to seafood markets
- Clam digging companies harvesting wild clams for processing
- Scallop fishing vessels engaged in offshore scallop harvesting
- Crab fishing operations in coastal regions
- Mussel aquaculture businesses cultivating mussels in controlled environments
These examples show the diverse and dynamic nature of the shellfish fishing industry.
NAICS Code 114112 - Shellfish Fishing: Code Details Table
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Clam digging | Harvesting clams from natural beds |
| Crabbing | Commercially catching crabs |
| Crayfish fishing | Harvesting crayfish from freshwater or brackish areas |
| Fisheries, shellfish | General commercial shellfish fishing operations |
| Lobster fishing | Catching lobsters from ocean habitats |
| Mussel fishing | Harvesting or culturing mussels |
| Octopus fishing | Harvesting octopus for commercial sale |
| Oyster dredging | Collecting oysters using dredging equipment |
| Scallop fishing | Harvesting scallops from offshore beds |
| Sea urchin fishing | Commercial fishing of sea urchins |
| Shellfish fishing (general) | Includes clam, crab, oyster, shrimp harvesting |
| Shrimp fishing | Capturing shrimp from natural habitats |
| Squid fishing | Commercially catching squid |
FAQs About NAICS Code 114112 - Shellfish Fishing
What types of shellfish are included under NAICS 114112?
This code includes clams, oysters, mussels, scallops, crabs, lobsters, shrimp, squid, sea urchins, octopus, and crayfish.
How is the size standard for small businesses determined for this industry?
For NAICS 114112, the SBA sets a size standard of $14 million average annual receipts, meaning businesses under this revenue qualify as small.
Is aquaculture part of shellfish fishing under NAICS 114112?
Yes, commercial shellfish harvesting includes both wild capture and aquaculture operations.
Are both harvesting from natural habitats and farmed shellfish included?
Yes, establishments harvesting shellfish from natural waters or controlled aquaculture environments fall under this NAICS code.
Why is NAICS code classification important for shellfish fishing businesses?
The classification helps businesses access government contracts, understand market size, comply with regulations, and benefit from SBA programs.
Conclusion
NAICS code 114112 - Shellfish Fishing is a vital classification within the Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting sector that covers a broad and economically significant range of shellfish harvesters. Understanding this code helps businesses identify opportunities, meet regulatory requirements, and qualify for government programs. If your enterprise is involved in clam digging, oyster harvesting, scallop fishing, or related operations, this NAICS code is your key to industry recognition and growth.
Enhance your market insight and compliance today by aligning your shellfish fishing business with NAICS 114112 standards.
