Welcome to Louisiana Fisheries Forward
A voluntary education and training program from the
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and Louisiana Sea Grant College Program at LSU.
- Commercial Fishing
- Dealers & Processors
- Business Management
- Industry Information
- CRAB
- SHRIMP
- OYSTER
- FINFISH
Commercial Fishing
Fishing is a billion-dollar industry in Louisiana, and the demand for local seafood has never been greater. There are many resources available to help you learn the business, or to be more successful.
Dealers & Processors
One out of every 70 jobs in the state is related to the seafood business; many are centered around the docks, dealers and processors who handle seafood that will be sold, or resold. Learn more about the the highly regulated—yet highly rewarding—industry.
Business Management
If you are catching or processing seafood for a profit, then you are first and foremost a businessman. Learning more about business and finance can help you better manage your money and time to be more successful.
Industry Information
New and existing seafood operators must understand the economic factors that affect supply, demand and price of Gulf seafood for good decision-making. It is also beneficial to understand how fisheries is managed and regulated along with the role of enforcement.
CRAB
Louisiana accounts for 25% of total US landings of blue crab, and many commercial fishermen crab for at least part of the year. There are new regulations, and best management practices, that crabbers must be aware of.
SHRIMP
Shrimping in Louisiana has a bright future, despite some set-backs from the environment and global competition. Focus on quality product handling, the right equipment, fuel efficiency and other fishing practices to improve profitability.
OYSTER
The oyster industry is the most highly regulated in the state, due to raw consumption and the biological processes of America’s favorite bi-valve. Stay up to date with changing regulations, new markets, and alternative methods of culture.
FINFISH
Louisiana fishermen land a wide variety of finfish species—from the coastal marshes and bays to 100 miles offshore. Get the latest information on harvest regulations, gear, reporting requirements to help your business be more successful.
Latest News
Check out the latest news and updates
LDWF Clarifies Commercial Crab Regulation
August 17, 2018The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries would like to remind commercial fishermen about the regulations of egg-bearing crabs.
Recreational Red Snapper and Gray Triggerfish Seasons Closed
August 16, 2018The state recreational red snapper season closed at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, August 12, 2018, and the recreational harvest of gray triggerfish closed in Louisiana waters at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, August 16, 2018.
LA Red Snapper Landings Estimates through July 29
August 12, 2018The latest catch statistics for recreational red snapper recorded by LA Creel, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ near real-time landings data collection program, are 651,495 pounds, or 87 percent of Louisiana’s annual private recreational allocation of 743,000 pounds through July 29.
Upcoming Fisher Events
Check out our workshops and events
September WLF Commission Meeting
09:30 am - 11:30 am @ LDWF Baton Rouge Learn More
Louisiana Hypoxic Working Group
10:00 am - 11:00 am @ Coast & Environment Bldg Learn More
Louisiana Shrimp Association Industry Meeting
03:00 pm - 05:00 pm @ Houma, LA Learn More