Louisiana Fishing License
Planning to cast your line in Louisiana’s abundant waters? You’ll need the proper fishing license first. Whether you’re a resident looking to explore local freshwater lakes or a visitor eager to experience the state’s renowned saltwater fishing, understanding Louisiana’s licensing requirements is essential for a legal and enjoyable fishing experience.
Louisiana offers various license options to accommodate different fishing preferences and budgets. Residents can secure a Basic Fishing License for just $17, while the Saltwater Basic Fishing License costs $15. Non-residents have flexible options too, including convenient short-term licenses starting at $5 for single-day adventures.
The licensing system isn’t just about compliance—it’s designed to support Louisiana’s thriving fishing industry and conservation efforts. With over 400,000 anglers purchasing licenses annually, these fees directly contribute to maintaining the state’s exceptional fishing opportunities and protecting aquatic ecosystems for future generations.
Types of Louisiana Fishing Licenses
Louisiana offers several fishing license categories to accommodate different angling needs and residency status. Understanding these options helps you select the appropriate license for your fishing plans.
Resident vs Non-Resident Requirements
Louisiana residents pay significantly lower fees compared to non-residents for all fishing license types. You qualify for resident pricing after living in Louisiana for at least 6 months with valid proof of residency.
Resident License Fees:
- Basic Fishing License: $17
- Saltwater License: $15
- Hook and Line License: $5
- Senior Hunting/Fishing License: $5
Non-Resident License Fees:
- Basic Fishing License: $68
- Saltwater License: $60
- 10-Day Basic License: $17
- 5-Day Basic License: $30
Military personnel and students receive the same pricing as residents regardless of their home state. You must provide appropriate documentation to qualify for these reduced rates.
Freshwater, Saltwater, and All-Water Options
Louisiana divides its waters into freshwater and saltwater zones using a designated saltwater line across southern Louisiana. Your license requirements depend on where you plan to fish.
Basic Fishing License covers all legal recreational freshwater fishing gear and methods. This license allows you to fish in waters north of the saltwater line and includes freshwater species fishing south of the line.
Saltwater License becomes mandatory when fishing south of the saltwater line for saltwater species. You must purchase this license plus to your Basic Fishing License – even if you only plan to fish saltwater areas.
Hook and Line License costs just $5 for both residents and non-residents. This option works when you’re fishing with a pole or hook and line without a reel, without artificial bait, and using only dip nets, landing nets, minnow traps, crab nets, or crab lines.
Louisiana Sportsman’s Paradise License provides comprehensive hunting and fishing privileges. Residents pay $100 while non-residents pay $400 for this all-inclusive option.
Temporary and Annual Licenses
Louisiana offers flexible licensing periods to match your fishing frequency and visit duration.
Annual Licenses remain valid for 365 days from the purchase date. Resident licenses become available June 1st and expire June 30th of the following year. These licenses provide the best value for regular anglers.
Short-Term Options include:
- 5-Day Non-Resident License: $30 for Basic Fishing
- 10-Day Non-Resident License: $17 for Basic Fishing
- 3-Day Saltwater License: $20 (requires Basic Fishing License)
Charter Passenger Licenses offer convenient 3-day passes specifically for guided fishing trips. These licenses cost $20 for saltwater fishing and $10 for freshwater fishing, regardless of residency status.
You don’t need a Louisiana fishing license if you’re under 18 years old or if you’re a Louisiana resident born before June 1, 1940, who has lived in the state for 6 months or more.
License Fees and Pricing
Louisiana fishing license fees depend on your residency status and the type of fishing you plan to do. Residents pay significantly lower fees than non-residents across all license categories.
Resident License Fees
| License Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Basic Fishing License | $17 |
| Saltwater License | $15 |
| Hook & Line License | $5 |
| Senior Hunt/Fish License | $5 |
| LA Sportsman’s Paradise License | $100 |
| Disabled/Special Needs License | $4 |
Your Basic Fishing License covers all legal freshwater gear and costs $17 as a Louisiana resident. You’ll pay an additional $15 for the Saltwater License if you plan to fish in saltwater areas. The combined cost totals $32 for complete saltwater fishing access.
Residents born before June 1, 1940 receive free Senior Hunt/Fish Licenses. Disabled veterans pay no fees for their fishing licenses.
Non-Resident License Fees
| License Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Basic Fishing License (Annual) | $68 |
| Saltwater License | $60 |
| 5-Day Basic License | $30 |
| Non-Resident Native 10-Day License | $17 |
| Saltwater Charter Passenger License (3-day) | $20 |
| Freshwater Charter Passenger License (3-day) | $10 |
| LA Sportsman’s Paradise License | $400 |
Non-residents pay $68 for an annual Basic Fishing License and $60 for the Saltwater License. Your total cost reaches $128 for complete saltwater fishing privileges as a non-resident.
Short-term licenses provide cost-effective options for visitors. You can purchase a 5-day Basic License for $30 or a 3-day Saltwater Charter Passenger License for $20.
Special Pricing Options
Students attending Louisiana schools full-time qualify for resident pricing on their louisiana fishing license regardless of their home state. Military personnel stationed in Louisiana also receive resident rates with proper documentation.
The Lifetime Hunting/Fishing License costs $4,000 and remains valid for three or more years. This option benefits frequent anglers who fish regularly in Louisiana waters.
Your Hook & Line License costs only $5 and allows fishing with a pole or cane pole without a reel or artificial bait. This restricted license doesn’t permit nets, traps, or other fishing equipment.
All Basic and Saltwater licenses now include coverage for all legal fishing gear since 2022. You no longer need separate permits for specific equipment types beyond the basic license categories.
How to Purchase Your Fishing License
Louisiana fishing license purchases offer multiple convenient options to match your preferred buying method.
Online Purchase Options
Official LDWF Website
You can buy your Louisiana fishing license directly through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website. The online system accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express payments. A small handling fee applies to all online transactions.
Third-Party Authorized Sites
Licensed third-party retailers also sell Louisiana fishing licenses online through state-authorized platforms. These sites provide the same digital licensing service with immediate authorization numbers.
Digital License Format
Online purchases generate a temporary authorization number via text message and email. You receive a PDF version of your license that you can print or save to your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. No physical license arrives by mail for online purchases.
Phone Purchase Method
Call 888-872-8862 to purchase your Louisiana fishing license by telephone. The system issues an authorization number immediately during your call. You can print your license at home or request a mailed copy after completing the phone transaction.
In-Person Purchase Locations
LDWF Offices
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries headquarters at 2000 Quail Drive in Baton Rouge sells all license types. Regional LDWF offices throughout Louisiana also provide licensing services.
Retail Locations
Local retailers across Louisiana sell fishing licenses including:
- Hardware stores
- Bait and tackle shops
- Sporting goods stores
- Major retailers like Walmart
- Marinas and fishing supply shops
Mail-In Application Process
Download the license application from the LDWF website or request a form by calling their office. Complete the application and mail it with your payment to the address provided on the form. Processing takes several business days for mail-in applications.
Special License Requirements
Military, student, disability, and lifetime licenses cannot be purchased online. These special Louisiana fishing license types require:
- In-person visit to LDWF headquarters in Baton Rouge
- Mail-in application with proper documentation
- Verification of eligibility status
License Replacement and Reprinting
Carry your license and permits while fishing at all times. Lost licenses purchased online can be reprinted free through the LDWF website. Licenses bought through other methods cost $2 to replace.
Reciprocal Fishing Agreements
Louisiana maintains reciprocal agreements with Texas for specific border waters including Sabine Lake, Sabine River, Sabine Pass, Caddo Lake, and Toledo Bend Reservoir. Valid Louisiana or Texas licenses work in these shared waters. This agreement excludes Gulf of Mexico waters. Louisiana residents over 65 with Senior Licenses can fish Texas public waters without additional Texas licensing.
Special Permits and Endorsements
Louisiana fishing license requirements extend beyond basic permits to include specialized endorsements for specific fishing activities. These additional permits target particular species and fishing methods that require extra regulation.
Species-Specific Permits
You must obtain a free Recreational Offshore Landing Permit (ROLP) when targeting offshore species like tunas, billfish, swordfish, amberjacks, groupers, snappers, hinds, cobia, wahoo, or dolphinfish on private recreational trips. Charter clients don’t require this permit as charter operators maintain their own permits. The ROLP applies only when you plan to land these species – you don’t need it if you’re fishing for them but not keeping them.
Federal regulations mandate a $20 Highly Migratory Species Angling Permit for fishing Atlantic tunas, sharks, swordfish, marlins, sailfish, and spearfish. This vessel-based permit covers recreational fishing only – you cannot sell any catch taken under this permit. The permit applies to the boat rather than individual anglers.
Most Louisiana fish species don’t require additional state permits beyond your basic louisiana fishing license. But, landing federally managed species in state waters requires the ROLP, and highly migratory species require federal HMS permits. Spearfishing for certain species may require a saltwater license when performed in saltwater areas.
Gear and Equipment Licenses
Your Basic Fishing License covers multiple gear types including bow and arrow, barbed and barbless spears, frog gigs, scuba gear, hook and line equipment, cast nets up to specific size limits, crab traps, trawls, oyster tongs with proper tonging permits, and up to 35 crawfish traps. This comprehensive coverage eliminates the need for separate gear-specific permits in most cases.
Saltwater-specific equipment like crab traps used in saltwater requires both a Basic and Saltwater License. The state offers special license rates for senior residents age 60 and older, nonresident students, and comprehensive Sportsman’s Paradise packages that bundle major recreational hunting and fishing licenses.
| Requirement | Details/Notes |
|---|---|
| Basic Fishing License | Required for ages 18+; covers most gear |
| Saltwater License | Required for saltwater gear and species |
| ROLP | Free permit for offshore species possession |
| HMS Angling Permit | $20 federal permit for regulated species |
| Senior/Student Licenses | Discounted options available |
| Gear-specific Licenses | Most included in Basic; saltwater needs additional license |
Lifetime Fishing License Options
Louisiana’s lifetime fishing license provides permanent fishing access for anglers who fish regularly throughout their lives. These licenses eliminate the need for annual renewals and offer long-term savings for dedicated sportsmen.
Resident Lifetime License Pricing
Resident Lifetime Hunting/Fishing Combo License costs $500 for Louisiana residents of any age except seniors. This license includes basic fishing privileges, saltwater fishing access, basic hunting rights, deer hunting permits, waterfowl hunting authorization, turkey hunting access, and WMA access permits.
Senior residents aged 65 and older qualify for the Resident Lifetime Senior Hunting/Fishing Combo License at $100. This reduced-price option provides the same comprehensive privileges as the standard resident lifetime license.
Non-Resident Lifetime License Options
Non-residents aged 3 and older can purchase the Non-Resident Lifetime Hunting/Fishing Combo License for $4,000. This license grants permanent fishing and hunting privileges in Louisiana regardless of your home state.
Infants under 3 years old qualify for the Non-Resident Lifetime Infant Hunting/Fishing Combo License at $1,000. Parents can secure their child’s lifetime Louisiana fishing license at this reduced rate during the infant period.
Lifetime License Benefits and Features
| License Type | Age Requirement | Cost | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Lifetime Combo | Any age (except 65+) | $500 | Fishing, hunting, and specialty permits |
| Resident Senior Lifetime | 65 and older | $100 | Full fishing and hunting privileges |
| Non-Resident Lifetime | 3 and older | $4,000 | Complete Louisiana fishing and hunting access |
| Non-Resident Infant | Under 3 years | $1,000 | Lifetime privileges starting at birth |
Louisiana’s Baton Rouge office issues all lifetime licenses directly. Your lifetime license remains valid even if you move out of Louisiana after purchase. Duplicate license cards cost $7.50 if you lose or damage your original license.
Current lifetime license holders retain their existing privileges without requiring conversion to newer license formats. The louisiana fishing license system protects grandfathered benefits for all lifetime license owners.
Reciprocal Agreements With Other States
Louisiana has established reciprocal fishing license agreements with Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, and Tennessee that allow your valid Louisiana fishing license to remain effective in specific shared waters across state boundaries. These agreements eliminate the requirement for purchasing nonresident licenses when fishing designated border waters while maintaining each state’s individual fishing regulations.
Texas Border Waters Agreement
Your Louisiana fishing license grants access to Texas border waters including Caddo Lake, Toledo Bend Reservoir, Sabine River, Sabine Lake, and Sabine Pass without purchasing a Texas nonresident license. Louisiana residents aged 65 or older with valid senior fishing licenses can fish in any Texas public waters except the Gulf of Mexico without additional licensing requirements.
You must follow Texas bag and length limits when fishing in Texas waters and Louisiana regulations when fishing in Louisiana waters, regardless of which state issued your license. The reciprocal agreement doesn’t apply to Gulf of Mexico fishing activities.
Multi-State Reciprocal Coverage
| State | Agreement Type | Coverage Area | Special Provisions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | Border Waters | Caddo Lake, Toledo Bend, Sabine River system | Senior exemption for residents 65+ |
| Mississippi | Mississippi River | Main channel boundary waters | Commercial and sport fishing |
| Alabama | Boundary Waters | Shared waterways | Varies by specific agreement |
| Arkansas | Boundary Waters | Shared waterways | Varies by specific agreement |
| Tennessee | Boundary Waters | Shared waterways | Varies by specific agreement |
Regulatory Compliance Requirements
You must comply with the fishing regulations of the state where you’re actively fishing rather than the state that issued your license. Daily creel limits for black bass, bream, crappie, striped bass, and striped bass hybrids in border waters follow the adjacent state’s limits or Mississippi limits, whichever proves greater.
Reciprocal agreements cover licensing requirements, fishing seasons, and harvest limits but don’t supersede state or federal laws about closed seasons or protected areas. Check current regulations before fishing in boundary or shared waters since specific terms vary by agreement.
License Replacement in Reciprocal States
Lost Louisiana fishing licenses can be replaced for $2 per license, though duplicates aren’t available for temporary licenses. Licenses purchased online or through mobile devices can be reprinted at no cost. Your replacement license maintains the same reciprocal privileges as the original license across all participating states.
License Exemptions and Free Fishing Days
Louisiana fishing license exemptions apply to specific age groups and circumstances. Children under 16 don’t need any fishing license to fish in Louisiana waters regardless of residency status. This exemption covers both residents and non-residents fishing in freshwater and saltwater areas.
Senior residents born before June 1 1940 receive complete license exemptions after living in Louisiana for six months or more. These seniors can fish in all Louisiana waters without purchasing any fishing license. Texas residents aged 65 or older with valid Special Texas Resident senior licenses can also fish in Louisiana public waters without additional licensing requirements.
Free Fishing Weekend occurs annually in mid-June when anyone can fish without a louisiana fishing license. Regular bag limits and size restrictions remain in effect during this event. You can fish in both freshwater and saltwater areas during Free Fishing Weekend without purchasing any permits.
Additional exemptions include specific circumstances for military personnel and students with proper documentation. Student license holders must carry valid student identification while fishing to qualify for exemptions.
| Exemption Type | Requirements | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Youth Exemption | Under 16 years old | All Louisiana waters |
| Senior Resident | Born before June 1 1940 + 6 months residency | All Louisiana waters |
| Texas Senior | 65+ with valid Texas senior license | All Louisiana public waters |
| Free Fishing Weekend | Annual mid-June event | All Louisiana waters |
Commercial fishing operations maintain separate licensing requirements with specific tagging regulations for gear. These exemptions don’t apply to commercial fishing activities or charter boat operations.
You must still follow all fishing regulations including bag limits size restrictions and seasonal closures even when fishing during exemption periods. Printed licenses remain mandatory for all non-exempt anglers while fishing in Louisiana waters.
Replacing Lost or Damaged Licenses
Louisiana anglers can replace lost or damaged fishing licenses through multiple convenient methods. The replacement process varies based on your license type and offers both digital and physical options.
Annual and Short-Term License Replacements
You can purchase duplicate annual or short-term Louisiana fishing licenses for $2 per license. Online and mobile device purchasers can reprint their licenses for free at any time through the original purchase platform. Temporary licenses cannot be duplicated and require new purchases if lost.
Replacement options include:
- Online through LouisianaOutdoors.com
- In-person at authorized retail vendors
- Direct visits to LDWF offices statewide
Lifetime License Replacements
Lost or damaged lifetime license cards require completing a Duplicate Lifetime Application form with a $7.50 processing fee. You can submit applications through three methods:
| Method | Fee Structure | Processing Location |
|---|---|---|
| $7.50 | LDWF Licensing and Registration, P.O. Box 98000, Baton Rouge, LA 70898 | |
| In-Person | $7.50 | LDWF Headquarters |
| Online | $12.50 ($7.50 + $5 convenience fee) | LouisianaOutdoors.com |
| Retail Vendor | $7.50 (some locations may add fees) | Approved retail locations |
The application form requires you to specify your replacement reason: lost, stolen, never received, or damaged.
Digital License Management
Digital copies from online purchases serve as valid proof of licensing while fishing. Save electronic copies to your smartphone or tablet for immediate access during fishing trips. Print backup copies to ensure compliance if electronic devices fail or lose power.
Reciprocal Agreement Considerations
Replacement Louisiana fishing licenses maintain reciprocal privileges with Texas for border waters including Caddo Lake, Toledo Bend Reservoir, Sabine River, Sabine Lake, and Sabine Pass. Louisiana residents over 65 with valid senior fishing licenses don’t require Texas nonresident licenses for Texas public waters when following Texas regulations.
Common Questions
Anglers frequently ask about Louisiana fishing license costs, penalties, and regulations before planning their fishing trips. These common questions address the most important licensing details you need to know.
How much is a fishing license for Louisiana?
Louisiana fishing license costs vary based on your residency status and the type of fishing you plan to do. Louisiana residents pay $17 for a Basic Fishing License that covers all freshwater fishing activities. You’ll need an additional Saltwater License for $15 if you plan to fish south of the state’s designated saltwater line.
Nonresidents face higher fees for Louisiana fishing licenses. A 5-day Basic Fishing License costs $30 for visitors, while the annual nonresident Basic Fishing License costs $68. Nonresidents also need a Saltwater License for $60 annually or can purchase a 3-day Saltwater Charter Passenger License for $20.
| License Type | Resident Fee | Nonresident Fee | Nonresident 5-Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Fishing | $17 | $68 | $30 |
| Saltwater | $15 | $60 | $20 (3-day) |
| Hook and Line | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Senior Hunt/Fish | $5 | N/A | N/A |
Charter fishing passengers can purchase a 3-day license for just $5 when fishing with licensed guides. Military personnel and students studying in Louisiana qualify for resident pricing with proper documentation.
How much is a fine for fishing without a license in Louisiana?
Fishing without a license in Louisiana results in fines up to $50 and potential jail time up to 15 days for each offense. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries actively enforces licensing requirements throughout the state’s waters.
Additional violations carry steeper penalties beyond the basic licensing fine. Possessing fish over legal limits or undersized fish brings fines ranging from $100 to $350 plus up to 60 days in jail. For example, exceeding red snapper limits or possessing undersized sharks triggers these enhanced penalties.
Civil restitution fees add to your financial penalties when caught fishing illegally. Louisiana can charge up to $445 for the replacement value of seized fish, creating substantial costs beyond the initial fine. These enforcement measures protect Louisiana’s fish populations and ensure fair access for licensed anglers.
Can you fish at night in Louisiana?
Night fishing legality in Louisiana depends on the specific species you’re targeting and your fishing location. Louisiana fishing regulations vary by species and water body, making it essential to check current rules before fishing after dark.
Contact the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries or consult their current regulations for specific night fishing restrictions in your chosen fishing area. Some species have seasonal night fishing restrictions, while certain waters may prohibit nighttime fishing entirely.
Always verify night fishing rules for your target species and location before heading out. Local wildlife officials provide the most current information about nighttime fishing regulations and any temporary restrictions that may apply to specific areas or seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a fishing license in Louisiana?
Louisiana residents pay $17 for a Basic Fishing License and $15 for a Saltwater License. Non-residents pay significantly more, with annual licenses costing $68 for Basic and $60 for Saltwater. Short-term options are available, including a 5-day Basic License for $30 and a 3-day Saltwater Charter Passenger License for $20.
Do I need different licenses for freshwater and saltwater fishing in Louisiana?
Yes, Louisiana requires different licenses depending on where you fish. A Basic Fishing License ($17 for residents) covers freshwater fishing, while a Saltwater License ($15 for residents) is required for fishing south of the designated saltwater line. Both licenses now include coverage for all legal fishing gear.
Is there a lifetime fishing license available in Louisiana?
Yes, Louisiana offers lifetime fishing licenses. Residents can purchase a Lifetime Hunting/Fishing Combo License for $500, while seniors aged 65+ pay only $100. Non-residents can buy a lifetime license for $4,000. These licenses remain valid even if you move out of state.
Who is exempt from needing a fishing license in Louisiana?
Children under 16 and Louisiana residents born before June 1, 1940 (who have lived in the state for six months) don’t need fishing licenses. Texas residents aged 65+ with valid senior licenses can also fish in Louisiana without additional permits. Free Fishing Weekend in mid-June allows anyone to fish without a license.
Where can I buy a Louisiana fishing license?
You can purchase licenses online through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website, by phone, at LDWF offices, or at authorized retailers like sporting goods stores. Online purchases provide immediate digital authorization. Special licenses (military, student, disability, lifetime) may require in-person visits or mail-in applications with documentation.
What are the penalties for fishing without a license in Louisiana?
Fishing without a valid license can result in fines up to $50 and potential jail time. Additional violations may incur separate penalties. It’s mandatory to carry your printed license while fishing, and game wardens regularly check for compliance during routine patrols.
Can I use my Louisiana fishing license in other states?
Louisiana has reciprocal agreements with Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, and Tennessee for specific shared border waters. Your Louisiana license may be valid in designated areas, but you must follow each state’s fishing regulations, bag limits, and size restrictions. Check current agreements before fishing across state lines.
Do military personnel get discounts on Louisiana fishing licenses?
Yes, military personnel can access resident pricing with appropriate documentation, even if they’re not Louisiana residents. They need to provide military ID and orders when purchasing licenses in person or through mail-in applications to qualify for reduced rates.