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Go Fishing
Fishing in Louisiana
Louisiana’s waters provide an incredible bounty of recreational fishing harvests and support one of the most diverse commercial fishing industries in the nation. Together, these fisheries fuel local economies, create jobs, and play a vital role in the state’s culture and coastal communities.
Seasons and Regulations Brochure, Interactive Flipbook, and Quick Reference Guide
Find everything you need to know about recreational and commercial fishing seasons and regulations. Also learn about recreational crab, shrimp, and oyster regulations.
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Fishing Seasons and Regulations
Fishing Licenses and Permits Fishing License Requirements, Fees, and Purchase Information
Find helpful information about license requirements, including specialty licenses. Fishing licenses are valid from the date of purchase and expire one year (365 days) from the date of purchase.
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Fishing Licenses, Permits, and Tags
For-Hire/Charter Fishing Saltwater and Freshwater Guide Information
Operators of for-hire/charter vessels derive income from bringing recreational fishermen to take and retain legal species of fish.
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For-Hire/Charter Guides
Fisheries Management Learn about the tools LDWF uses to manage your fisheries.
Responsible fisheries management starts with sound scientific information about fish populations and the ecosystems in which they live, as well as the fisheries that depend on them.
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Fisheries Management
Recreational Fishing
Commercial Fishing
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LA Creel - LDWF's Saltwater Recreational Data Collection
Active management starts with LA Creel. LA Creel is LDWF’s recreational saltwater landings data collection program which uses a combination of data collected dockside and through phone and email surveys to estimate recreational saltwater fish harvests. The goal of LA Creel is to provide statistically significant recreational fishery information to aid in managing Louisiana’s valuable fishery resources.
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Looking for some not-so-secret recreational fishing spots? We can put you on fish
Below are a couple great resources to help you get a line wet and put a few in the ice chest. Get Out and Fish! ponds are stocked with adult-sized fish throughout Louisiana, while our Outdoor Explorer will show you some excellent bank fishing areas, boat launches, and other stocked ponds around the state (click 'Get on the Water')
News
Recreational Fishing
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Jun 12, 2026 Recreational Red Snapper Landing Estimates through May 31
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Jun 11, 2026 LWFC Adopts Notice of Intent to Amend Freshwater and Saltwater Recreational and Commercial Passive Hooked Gear Tending Requirements
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Jun 08, 2026 2026 State Gag Grouper Season to Open September 1 and Close October 1