How To Acquire A Louisiana Fishing License

How to Get a Louisiana Fishing License

If you’re planning to fish in the beautiful waters of Louisiana, securing a fishing license is a must. Whether you’re fishing inshore or offshore, freshwater or saltwater, Louisiana law requires anglers to have a valid fishing license. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process of obtaining your Louisiana fishing license.

1. Determine What Type of License You Need

Before you apply for a fishing license, it’s essential to know which type of license you need. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) offers several types of fishing licenses based on your age, residency, and fishing activities. Some of the most common types include:

• Resident Fishing License: Available for Louisiana residents who have lived in the state for at least six months.
• Non-Resident Fishing License: For those visiting Louisiana who do not meet the residency requirements.
• Senior Citizen Fishing License: Available to Louisiana residents aged 60 and older.
• Saltwater and Freshwater Licenses: Depending on whether you’re fishing in saltwater or freshwater, you may need different licenses.
• Charter Boat License: If you’re operating a charter fishing business, you’ll need a special charter boat license.

2. Check for Any Exemptions

Some individuals may be exempt from needing a fishing license. For example:

• Children under 16 do not require a fishing license to fish in Louisiana.
• Active military personnel and veterans may be eligible for certain exemptions or discounts.

Be sure to check the current regulations on the LDWF website to ensure you meet any exemption criteria.

3. Choose the Duration of Your License

Louisiana offers various fishing license durations:

• Annual Licenses: These are valid for one year from the date of purchase.
• 7-Day Licenses: Ideal for tourists or short-term visitors.
• Day Passes: These are perfect for anglers who only plan to fish for a single day.

Select the option that best fits your fishing plans.

4. Apply Online or In-Person

Louisiana fishing licenses can be obtained through several convenient methods:

• Online: The easiest and quickest way to get your fishing license is to apply through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ website. You can purchase your license and print it immediately, which is great for last-minute anglers.
• Website: www.wlf.louisiana.gov
• In-Person: You can also purchase your fishing license at various retail stores, including sporting goods shops, bait and tackle stores, or authorized vendors. Check the LDWF website to find a list of local agents who sell fishing licenses.
• By Phone: Some authorized vendors also allow you to purchase licenses over the phone, though this method may be less common.

5. Provide Required Information

When applying for your fishing license, whether online or in person, you’ll need to provide certain information, including:

• Your name, address, and contact details
• Proof of Louisiana residency (for resident licenses)
• Your date of birth (for age-based licenses)
• Payment details (credit card or cash)

6. Pay for the License

The cost of a fishing license in Louisiana varies based on your residency status, age, and the type of license you need. As of 2023, some of the basic costs are:

• Resident Fishing License: $9.00 per year
• Non-Resident Fishing License: $60.00 per year
• 7-Day Non-Resident License: $30.00
• Saltwater Fishing License: $17.00 for residents, $30.00 for non-residents
• Freshwater Fishing License: $10.00 for residents, $30.00 for non-residents

Be sure to check the current fees when applying.

7. Keep Your License Accessible

Once you have your fishing license, be sure to carry it with you whenever you’re fishing in Louisiana. This could mean having a physical copy in your wallet or keeping an electronic copy on your mobile device if you obtained your license online.

8. Stay Updated on Regulations

Along with your fishing license, it’s important to stay updated on the local fishing regulations, including season dates, bag limits, and protected species. Louisiana offers a wealth of information through the LDWF’s website and also publishes regular updates on fishing regulations.