NEW ORLEANS - -- With hunting and fishing season around the corner, those looking to go to the fields or on the water need to ensure their licenses are in order.
This state is the “Sportsman’s Paradise” for many reasons. Deer, bobcat, quail, wild turkey, duck and a variety of freshwater and saltwater fish are available for harvest, but licenses are required no matter what game you choose to pursue.
Louisiana offers different rates for military members, with the hunting and big game licenses at the same rates as licenses for resident hunters, while resident military members also receiving a discount. For non-residents, a basic hunting license is $150, with an added cost of $100 for big game. Active military only pay $15 for a basic license and $14 for a big game license. Duck hunting, muzzleloader and wild turkey licenses must be purchased separately, and these licenses also have reduced costs for military members. Fishing licenses are also discounted from $9.50 to $5.
Hunters born on or after Sept. 1, 1969, must show proof of completion of a hunting safety course approved by Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Department (LAWFD). Military members are exempt from this rule but must file an exemption in person at the LAWFD main building in Baton Rouge.
Hunters should ensure their intended quarry is in season before heading for the fields. Quelling the rodent nutria for control purposes is also allowed during trapping season. Hunters must read guidelines before expeditions, such as the difference between legal and illegal deer, and where and when one antlered deer are acceptable game. Hunting is allowed on any wildlife management area (WMA), with 61 in the state of Louisiana and four less than an hour away from New Orleans. Hunters and fishermen can look up the locations of the nearest WMA at the LAWFD Web site.
Fishing regulations also vary by the body of water and type of fish caught. Atchafalaya Basin, Lake Verret-Palourde and Lake Fausse Point-Dauterive all have the same set of regulations. This set, however, is different from regulations for Eagle Lake or Caney Creek Lake. Fishermen should consult a WMA or look up the regulations on the LAWFD website while planning a fishing trip.
Hunting season for most game in Louisiana starts Oct. 1 and continues into February of the next year.
For more information, visit the LAWFD Web site at www.wlf.state.la.us.