Louisiana Fishing Regulations: Seasons, Limits and Locations

Fishing in Louisiana is more than just a hobby; it’s a way of life. With its vast network of rivers, bayous, lakes, and coastal waters, the Pelican State offers an unparalleled variety of fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. However, to make the most of your Louisiana fishing experience while supporting the state’s conservation efforts, it’s essential to understand and adhere to the fishing regulations set forth by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF).

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into Louisiana’s fishing regulations, covering everything from licensing requirements and seasonal closures to size limits and location-specific rules. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to plan your fishing adventures confidently, ethically, and in full compliance with the law. So grab your tackle box, and let’s explore the ins and outs of Louisiana fishing regulations!

Fishing Licenses and Requirements

Before casting your line in Louisiana waters, you’ll need to obtain a valid fishing license. The LDWF offers a variety of license options to cater to the needs of both resident and non-resident anglers:

Resident Licenses: If you’ve lived in Louisiana for at least six months, you can purchase a resident fishing license. Annual licenses for residents aged 16-59 cost $9.50, while seniors aged 60 and above can obtain a license for just $5.00.
Non-Resident Licenses: Visitors to Louisiana can choose between annual non-resident licenses ($60.00), 1-day trip licenses ($17.50), and 4-day trip licenses ($30.00). These licenses allow non-residents to enjoy the state’s diverse fishing opportunities without breaking the bank.
Exemptions: Children under 16 and Louisiana residents born before June 1, 1940, are exempt from needing a fishing license. However, it’s always a good idea to carry proof of age and residency when fishing without a license.

Obtaining your Louisiana fishing license is a breeze. You can purchase licenses online through the LDWF website, by phone at 1-888-765-2602, or in person at various license vendors across the state, including sporting goods stores and bait shops.

For anglers interested in specific fishing methods, such as trawling or using crab traps, additional gear licenses may be required. Be sure to check the LDWF website or consult with a local license vendor to ensure you have all the necessary permits before heading out on the water.

Statewide Fishing Seasons

One of the greatest advantages of fishing in Louisiana is the year-round availability of diverse species. Whether you’re targeting largemouth bass in the spring, catfish in the summer, or redfish in the fall, there’s always an exciting opportunity waiting for you in the Sportsman’s Paradise.

However, it’s crucial to be aware of the peak seasons for popular game fish to maximize your chances of success and support sustainable fishing practices. Here’s a quick rundown of the prime times to target some of Louisiana’s most sought-after species:

Largemouth Bass: While bass fishing is excellent year-round, the pre-spawn period from February to April offers some of the most action-packed angling, with trophy-sized fish moving into shallow waters to prepare for spawning.
Catfish: Summer months, particularly June through August, are prime time for targeting catfish in Louisiana’s rivers and lakes. During this period, catfish are most active and readily take a variety of baits, from worms and shad to prepared stink baits.
Crappie: Also known as white perch or sac-a-lait, crappie fishing peaks during the cooler months of October through February, when these tasty panfish congregate in deeper waters near structure.
Red Snapper: Red snapper season in Louisiana typically runs from May through July in federal waters and from March through September in state waters. However, it’s essential to check the current regulations before planning a trip, as season dates and bag limits are subject to change based on annual quotas and population assessments.
Speckled Trout: While speckled trout can be caught year-round, the most productive months are typically April through October, when these popular game fish are feeding actively in coastal bays, estuaries, and surf zones.

It’s important to note that some species may be subject to seasonal closures to protect spawning populations and ensure the long-term sustainability of Louisiana’s fisheries. For example, the LDWF may implement temporary closures for species like red snapper or black drum when annual catch limits are reached or during peak spawning periods. Always consult the current fishing regulations and stay informed about any updates or changes to seasons before planning your fishing trips.

Size and Creel Limits

To maintain healthy fish populations and promote responsible angling, Louisiana enforces size and creel limits for many popular game fish species. These regulations help ensure that fish have the opportunity to reach maturity, reproduce, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the state’s fisheries.

When it comes to size limits, it’s essential to understand the difference between minimum and maximum length requirements:

Minimum Size Limits: These regulations specify the smallest size at which a particular species can be legally harvested. Fish below the minimum size limit must be immediately released to allow them to grow and reproduce.
Maximum Size Limits: In some cases, the LDWF may implement maximum size limits to protect larger, mature fish that are crucial to the spawning population. Fish exceeding the maximum size limit must also be released immediately.

Here are some examples of current size limits for popular Louisiana game fish:

Species	Minimum Size Limit	Maximum Size Limit
Largemouth Bass	14 inches	N/A
Spotted Bass	12 inches	N/A
White Crappie	10 inches	N/A
Black Crappie	10 inches	N/A
Red Drum (Redfish)	16 inches	27 inches
Speckled Trout	12 inches	N/A

In addition to size limits, Louisiana also enforces daily bag limits, or creel limits, which specify the maximum number of fish an angler can harvest per day. These limits help distribute the catch among anglers and prevent overharvesting of popular species.

As of November 20, 2023, the LDWF has implemented new size and creel limits for speckled trout in response to population concerns. The minimum size limit has been increased from 12 inches to 13 inches, and the daily bag limit has been reduced from 25 fish to 15 fish per angler. These changes demonstrate the state’s commitment to adaptive management and ensuring the long-term health of its speckled trout fishery.

When planning multi-day fishing trips, it’s important to be aware of possession limits, which typically allow anglers to have no more than twice the daily bag limit in their possession at any given time. This means that if the daily bag limit for a particular species is 10 fish, an angler can have no more than 20 fish of that species in their possession, regardless of the number of days spent fishing.

By adhering to size and creel limits, anglers play a vital role in supporting Louisiana’s fisheries management efforts and preserving the state’s incredible fishing opportunities for generations to come.

Location-Specific Regulations

While Louisiana’s statewide fishing regulations provide a solid foundation for responsible angling, it’s crucial to be aware of location-specific rules that may apply to certain bodies of water or regions within the state.

One of the most significant distinctions in Louisiana fishing regulations is the difference between inland and saltwater areas. Inland waters, which include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, are subject to freshwater fishing regulations, while saltwater areas, such as coastal bays, estuaries, and the Gulf of Mexico, fall under the jurisdiction of saltwater fishing rules.

Some popular fishing destinations in Louisiana may have additional regulations or restrictions in place to address unique management concerns or protect sensitive habitats. For example:

Toledo Bend Reservoir: This massive reservoir on the Texas-Louisiana border is known for its world-class bass fishing. However, anglers should be aware of the 14-inch minimum size limit for largemouth bass and the daily bag limit of 8 fish per angler.
Atchafalaya Basin: As the largest wetland and swamp in the United States, the Atchafalaya Basin offers incredible fishing opportunities for species like catfish, crappie, and bass. However, certain areas within the basin, such as the Atchafalaya Delta Wildlife Management Area, may have specific regulations or seasonal closures to protect nesting bird colonies or other wildlife.
Calcasieu Lake: This popular saltwater destination in southwest Louisiana is known for its excellent redfish and speckled trout fishing. However, anglers should be aware of the special size and creel limits for speckled trout in this area, which include a 15-fish daily bag limit and a slot limit of 14-27 inches.

When fishing in Louisiana’s Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) or National Wildlife Refuges, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with any specific regulations or restrictions that may apply. Some areas may have seasonal closures, limited access points, or special permit requirements to minimize disturbance to wildlife and protect sensitive habitats.

If you plan to fish on private property in Louisiana, always obtain permission from the landowner before accessing the water. Many private lands in the state are leased to hunting and fishing clubs, and trespassing can result in fines or legal consequences.

By taking the time to research and understand location-specific regulations, anglers can ensure they are fishing responsibly and legally while enjoying the diverse opportunities Louisiana’s waters have to offer.

Gear Restrictions and Ethical Practices

In addition to seasons, size limits, and creel limits, Louisiana also regulates the types of fishing gear and methods that can be used to harvest fish. These regulations are designed to promote fair chase, minimize bycatch, and ensure the ethical treatment of fish and other aquatic resources.

Some common fishing methods that are permitted in Louisiana include:

Hook and line fishing
Cast netting for bait
Bow fishing for non-game species like carp and gar
Trotlines and yo-yos for catfish (with proper tagging and restrictions)
Recreational crabbing with traps or nets (with proper licenses and trap tags)

However, there are also certain fishing practices that are strictly prohibited in Louisiana due to their destructive or unethical nature. These include:

Dynamite fishing or “fish shocking”: The use of explosives or electrical devices to stun or kill fish is illegal and can result in severe penalties, including fines and jail time.
Noodling or hand-grabbing: While noodling for catfish is a popular tradition in some states, it is not permitted in Louisiana due to concerns over the potential spread of fish diseases and the disturbance of nesting cavities.
Snagging or snatching: The intentional snagging of fish with hooks or other devices is prohibited in Louisiana, as it can cause excessive injury to fish and does not promote fair chase.

When practicing catch-and-release fishing, it’s essential to handle fish properly to maximize their chances of survival. Use wet hands or a soft mesh net when handling fish, and avoid touching their gills or eyes. If a fish is deeply hooked, consider cutting the line as close to the hook as possible rather than attempting to remove the hook, which can cause additional injury.

Properly disposing of fishing line, hooks, and other tackle is another critical aspect of responsible angling. Discarded fishing line can entangle and kill wildlife, while lead sinkers and jigs can pose a toxic threat to waterfowl and other aquatic organisms. Always pack out your trash and dispose of it in designated receptacles or recycling bins.

If you witness any illegal fishing activities or violations of Louisiana’s fishing regulations, report them to the LDWF’s 24-hour Operation Game Thief hotline at 1-800-442-2511. By working together to promote ethical angling practices and enforce regulations, we can help ensure the long-term health and sustainability of Louisiana’s fisheries.

Conclusion

Louisiana’s fishing regulations may seem complex at first glance, but by taking the time to understand and follow them, anglers can enjoy the state’s incredible fishing opportunities while contributing to the conservation of its aquatic resources.