White-tailed deer are an abundant and sustainable game species in Louisiana and the species most targeted by Louisiana hunters. White-tailed deer are found throughout the state even in some coastal locales. LDWF biologists and technicians collect harvest and biological data and conduct other research on public and private lands to make sure white-tailed deer populations remain robust.
Prior to hunting deer, all deer hunters, regardless of age or license status, must obtain deer tags. They must have the tags in their possession while hunting deer, and immediately after harvesting a deer, tag the deer before moving it from where it was killed. Hunters must record required information for tagged deer and validate tags within 72 hours of harvesting a deer.
more informationelectronic text-to-tagvalidate your tag onlineLDWF continues to monitor and test the state’s white-tailed deer population for CWD. It has been found in Louisiana, as well as our neighboring states of Texas, Arkansas, and Mississippi.
more informationLDWF’s wildlife management areas offer lottery hunts for youth hunters, physically challenged hunters, disabled veterans, and the general public to hunt alligator, deer, dove, turkey, and waterfowl. There are also lottery hunts at White Lake Wetlands Conservation Area.
more informationLDWF’s biologists and technicians collect harvest and biological data and conduct other research on public and private lands across the state to inform our deer management activities such as setting seasons and limits. They summarize these data and other information in annual reports available for the public to review.
more informationThe Louisiana Big Game Records Program documents all-time record white-tailed deer and wild turkey harvested in the state that meet or exceed minimum antler or spur measurements, respectively, as well as deer and turkeys that meet minimum recognition requirements over a three-year span.
more informationWe estimate deer breeding periods primarily using the genetics of does, but many other factors including deer health, density, sex ratios, and habitat conditions can affect breeding periods. We use this information to provide hunters with a map of estimated deer breeding periods to use to better target the rut in their respective deer areas.
