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.
LDWF to Open Recreational Red Snapper Season 7 Days a Week August 19
August 14, 2024LDWF Secretary Madison Sheahan signed a Declaration of Emergency to reopen the recreational Red Snapper season seven days a week beginning at 12:01 a.m. Monday, August 19. The season will then remain open until further notice. LDWF Fisheries staff estimate that Louisiana’s remaining quota will allow fishing through Labor Day…
LDWF Announces Commercial Greater Amberjack Season to Close June 30
June 20, 2024The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) issued a Declaration of Emergency to close the commercial Greater Amberjack season at 12:01 a.m. on June 30, 2024. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries has announced that the commercial season for the harvest of Greater Amberjack will close in federal…
REMINDER: New Red Drum Regulations go into Effect Tomorrow, June 20
June 19, 2024Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries reminds anglers that the new Red Drum size and daily creel limits go into effect and will be enforced beginning June 20, 2024. The new regulations are as follows: Daily Creel: 4- fish daily limit per angler Size Limit: 18-inch minimum and 27-inch maximum…
