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
Final Rule to Modify GOM Mutton Snapper and Gag Management Measures
June 22, 2018NOAA Fisheries announces a final rule modifying commercial and recreational mutton snapper and commercial gag management measures in the Gulf of Mexico. The rule will: Modify the annual catch limit for mutton snapper Remove the annual catch target Decrease the mutton snapper recreational bag limit Increase the mutton snapper commercial…
Louisiana Inshore Shrimp Season to Close June 27, 2018 in a Portion of Zone 1 and Zone 2
June 21, 2018The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries announced that the 2018 spring inshore shrimp season will close at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 27, 2018, from the Mississippi/Louisiana state line westward to the western shore of Freshwater Bayou Canal except for the following waters: Lake Pontchartrain, Chef Menteur and Rigolets Passes, Lake…
NOAA Requests Landing Locations for Commercially Permitted Reef Fish Vessels
June 20, 2018In May 2017, the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council approved new requirements to improve compliance and increase management flexibility in the Gulf of Mexico individual fishing quota (IFQ) programs. One change will require all reef fish permit holders to land at locations pre-approved by NOAA Fisheries Service’s Office of Law…
Upcoming Fisher Events
Check out our workshops and events
Best of Bycatch Cooking Competition
04:00 pm - 08:00 pm @ Southern Food & Beverage Museum Learn More
Louisiana Trustee Implementation Group Annual Meeting June 26
05:30 pm - 09:30 pm @ Tulane River & Coastal Center Learn More