After a 10 day federal red snapper season that ran from June 1 through June 10, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries wants to remind recreational anglers that the season for the recreational harvest of red snapper in Louisiana state waters remains open.
On March 20, 2015, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries opened the Louisiana red snapper season in Louisiana state waters seven days per week until further notice. The bag and possession limit for the state-waters season is two fish per person at a 16-inch minimum total length.
The Louisiana Gulfward Boundary
In June 2012, the Commission took action to extend Louisiana state waters from three miles offshore to three marine leagues, or approximately 9 nautical miles, offshore.
LDWF officials encourage fishermen to use caution and their own personal judgment when fishing beyond the three-mile boundary that is currently recognized as federal waters, as it is fully expected that federal agents will continue to enforce federal law. Until U.S. Congress confirms Louisiana’s action, the battle will continue over Louisiana’s state water boundary.
Recreational Offshore Landing Permit
The Department reminds anglers that a Recreational Offshore Landing Permit is required in order to possess certain species, including red snapper. Anglers may obtain or renew his or her permit free of charge at https://rolp.wlf.la.gov.
The permit is required for any angler possessing tuna, billfish, swordfish, amberjack, grouper snapper, hind, wahoo, cobia and dolphin, except for anglers under 16 years of age or fishing on a paid-for-hire trip where the captain holds a permit.
Anglers may renew their permits up to 30 days prior to expiration. A valid Louisiana fishing license number is required to obtain a permit. A confirmation number is allowed for a temporary (trip) license.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources. For more information, visit us at www.wlf.louisiana.gov on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ldwffb or follow us on Twitter @LDWF.
For press inquiries contact Ashley Wethey, awethey@wlf.la.gov or 225-721-0489