Louisiana Finfish Fishery
Louisiana Fisheries Forward has put together a wide variety of topics from multiple government and industry organizations, to help saltwater finfish fishermen understand licensing and reporting requirements, harvest regulations, seasonal rule changes, and best handling methods to provide both consumer finfish products, and fish used for bait, feed and fish oil (menhaden in particular).
More than 97% of Louisiana’s total finfish harvest (in pounds) is menhaden. However, there is renewed consumer interest in ‘wild-caught fish’ that is increasing demand for well-known favorites like tuna and red snapper, as well as underutilized species like flounder, black drum and sheepshead. Louisiana ranks 2nd in the harvest of finfish in the nation, and opportunities abound in this fishery.
As we continue to add information this web site, visit the resource links below for more information on regulations, product handling, gear and equipment, and responsible fishing practices.
Finfishing regulations are determined by the boundary between federal and state waters; at this time, Louisiana claims state waters out to nine nautical miles from the nearest land (in some cases can extend further). However, gear that is restricted in Louisiana state waters is restricted only out to three nautical miles. The federal government currently claims waters beginning at three nautical miles in many fisheries, meaning the area from three to nine nautical miles may be enforced differently by each entity, and depending on which fishery you are participating. Please check with your local Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement office.
New Speckled Trout Regulations go into Effect November 20
November 8, 2023The new speckled trout size and daily creel limits go into effect and will be enforced beginning November 20. The new regulations are as follows: Size limit: 13-20 inches total length, only two fish included within the daily creel limit can be greater than 20 inches total length Daily Creel:…
Recreational Gag Grouper State, Federal Fishing Season to Close October 19
October 12, 2023The federal National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued an emergency season modification for the recreational Gag Grouper fishery, which closes the fishery at 12:01 a.m. on October 19. The Gag Grouper recreational season was originally scheduled to close on November 9, 2023. The fishery will remain closed until…
The LWFC Amends Notice of Intent Modifying Spotted Seatrout Size And Bag Limits
August 4, 2023The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission (LWFC) amended the Notice of Intent (NOI) to change spotted seatrout size and bag limits. The commission proposes to amend the original Notice of Intent to a minimum size limit of 13 inches and establish a maximum size limit of 20 inches with an allowance for…
