Louisiana Fishing Regulations: All You Need To KnowIf you plan to fish in Louisiana, it’s important to be familiar with the state’s fishing regulations. These rules were created to protect the fishery and ensure sustainability in the future. To avoid penalties and fines, as well as imprisonment, you need to be familiar with the rules. We will be discussing Louisiana fishing regulations in this article to help you remain compliant and enjoy your fishing experience.
What are the Basic Louisiana Fishing Regulations (BLF)?
Before we get into the details, let’s first discuss the basics. Louisiana fishing regulations require that all anglers have a valid fishing licence at all times when fishing in public waters. You must also comply with daily and possession limits, fishing limitations, and fishing season. These regulations are applicable to both residents as well as non-residents.
Requirements for fishing license
You need a fishing licence to fish in Louisiana. There are many types of licenses available. Fees for these licenses are determined by the age of the angler, their residency status, and the length of the license. There are several types of licenses available, including commercial and recreational licenses.
Recreational Fishing Licences
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries offers several license options for recreational anglers. Basic and saltwater recreational licenses are the most popular types. You can apply online or through a licensed vendor.
Commercial Fishing Licences
Louisiana’s commercial anglers require a commercial license to sell fish and seafood from public waters. Commercial licenses are available for commercial fisherman, charter captain, and commercial vessel licenses.
Louisiana Fishing Seasons
Louisiana fishing seasons are dependent on the species of fish you catch and the type of water body that you fish in. Except for certain species, Louisiana has a general fishing season that runs from January through December.
Red Snapper Season
Red Snapper season in Louisiana begins on June 1st, and runs through September 6th. However, dates can vary depending on where they are located and other factors. Anglers over 16 years old must have a valid Recreational Offshore Landing Permit. The daily and daily limits are two fish per day, with a minimum of 16 inches.
Spotted Seatrout Season
The Spotted Seatrout, one of the most sought-after fishing species in Louisiana is open all year. Seasons vary depending on where they are located. The season closes in the middle of the state from November through December, but it is open all year in most parts. The daily limit for fish possession is 25 per person, with a minimum size 12 inches.
Louisiana Fishing Limits
Louisiana fishing limits vary depending on the species of fish you are fishing in and the type of water body. To avoid fines and penalties, you must adhere to the limits.
Daily Creel Limit
The daily creel limit is the maximum number of fish an angler can keep per calendar day. It varies depending on the species. For most freshwater species, except catfish, the creel limit is ten. The limit is 100 for catfish. The creel limit for saltwater species varies depending on the species and where it is located.
Possession limit
The possession limit is the maximum number of fish that an angler can keep in their possession on land or water. It varies depending on the species. The possession limit for most freshwater species is twice the daily creel limit. It varies for saltwater species.
Regulations for Fishing Methods
Louisiana fishing regulations also provide details about the legal methods for catching fish. These vary depending on the species and where they are caught.
Bowfishing Regulations
Louisiana allows bowfishing, but you must follow certain regulations. Bowfishing is legal for most freshwater species. However, it is not allowed for saltwater species, except for carp and buffalo.
Noodling Regulations
Although noodling is also known as hand-fishing in Louisiana, it is only legal for non-commercial purposes. It is illegal to capture turtles, softshell turtles, or alligator snapping turtles using this method.
Fishing Regulations For Specific Species
Louisiana has specific regulations that apply to different species of fish. These are some of the most popular species and their regulations:
Crabbing Regulations
Louisiana law allows you to crab for blue crabs, but there are some restrictions on the size and sexuality of the animals and you must only use approved gear.
Catfishing Regulations
Louisiana is a popular place to fish for catfish. Regulations govern the type of bait that you can use to catch them as well as the size limits and minimum length for commercial fishing.
Shrimping Regulations
There are only a few licenses available for shrimp fishing in Louisiana. These regulations cover many aspects, including restrictions on the size of the mesh, by-catch and the shrimp season.
Penalties for Violation of Regulations
Louisiana takes fishing regulations very seriously. There are also penalties for breaking them. The LDWF enforces regulations and has the power to confiscate fishing gear, fine you and even lock you up for serious violations.
First-Time Offense Penalties
The severity of an offense will determine the penalties. Minor violations can result in a warning, a fine, or even suspension of your fishing licence.
Repeat Offenses Penalties
Repeat offenders could face harsher penalties such as imprisonment, fines, and even revocations of fishing licenses.
Conclusion
Louisiana’s fisheries are dependent on the enforcement of fishing regulations. To ensure safety and avoid penalties, anglers must adhere to the regulations. We hope you found this article helpful in understanding Louisiana fishing regulations. Enjoy your fishing trips!
