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
Processor Training Events in June
May 3, 2018LSU AgCenter’s School of Food Sciences is offering two Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) related workshops for seafood dealers—specifically processors, packers, wholesalers, importers, harvesters and warehouses.
Oyster Season Extended for West Cove Portion of Calcasieu Lake Public Oyster Area
May 2, 2018The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) will extend the oyster season (market / sack harvest only) for the West Cove portion of the Calcasieu Lake Public Oyster Area until one-half hour after sunset on May 15, 2018.
LDWF Opens Spring Shrimp Season in a Portion of LA Inshore Waters April 30
April 30, 2018On April 26, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission convened a special meeting to consider setting the opening of the spring shrimp season in a portion of state inshore waters. The Commission set the opening based on information provided by Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries biologists and public…
Upcoming Fisher Events
Check out our workshops and events
June Sanitation Control Procedures Class
08:15 am - 04:45 pm @ 212 Efferson Hall Learn More