Sopchoppy's Worm Gruntin' Festival Celebrates Unique Earthworm Harvesting Tradition

The annual Worm Gruntin' Festival in Sopchoppy, Florida draws thousands each second Saturday of April to witness and practice the unique technique of worm grunting. This method involves rubbing a rooping iron across a wooden stob to create ground vibrations that drive earthworms to the surface for fishing bait. Local families like the Revells and Rosiers have practiced this craft for generations, with some historically making their living from it. Biologist Kenneth Catania from Vanderbilt University confirmed in 2008 that vibrations mimic mole predation, proving Charles Darwin's 1881 theory. The tradition dates to the late 19th century when railroad workers began trading the native Diplocardia mississippiensis worms. Though commercial worm grunting declined after plastic lures emerged in the 1970s, the festival's 25th edition shows strong community engagement. Local musician Corey Benedict's social media videos about worm grunting have gone viral globally, creating new attention. The Depot Museum, curated by historian Nelson Martin, preserves this heritage, including stories of Worm Queen Lossie Mae Rosier who raised 11 children through worm grunting. Festival activities include demonstrations, a Wiggle Worm Fun Run, and live music in downtown Sopchoppy.