The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) would like to remind oyster harvesters that the following areas will open for sacking only (larger than 3 inches) on Monday, November 13, 2023:
Bay Gardene Public Oyster Seed Reservation, Vermilion/East, West Cote Blanche Bay/Atchafalaya Bay Public Oyster Seed Grounds, including all areas east of Mississippi River, Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) Shellfish Harvest Areas 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 will open for sacking of market size oysters only one half-hour before sunrise on Monday, November 13, 2023 and shall close at one-half hour after sunset on Monday, April 1, 2024 (or if biological data indicates that harvest levels have been met).
For the full 2023-24 oyster season dates, and the provisions that will be in effect, visit: https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/news/the-louisiana-wildlife-and-fisheries-commission-sets-the-20232024-oyster-season
Public notice of any opening, delay or closing of a season will be provided at least 72 hours prior to such action, unless such closure is ordered by the Louisiana Department of Health for public concerns. Remember to check LDH closure lines before harvesting. Current closure lines can be found here: NOVEMBER FEBRUARY 2024 MOLLUSCAN SHELLFISH CLASSIFICATION (arcgis.com)
| Area / Public Ground | Season | Limit |
|---|---|---|
| East of MS River, North of MRGO Sacking only |
Opens November 13, 2023 (Closes April 1, 2024) |
30 sacks/vessel/day* |
| East of MS River, South of MRGO Sacking only |
Opens November 13, 2023 (Closes April 1, 2024) |
30 sacks/vessel/day* |
| Vermilion/East and West Cote Blanche Bay/Atchafalaya Bay Public Oyster Seed Grounds- Sacking |
Opens November 13, 2023 (Closes April 1, 2024) |
30 sacks/vessel/day* (take and possession) |
For 2023-2024 oyster season maps, click here.
For more information, contact Robert Caballero at rcaballero@wlf.la.gov or 504-286-4054.