Louisiana fishing is always at the top of our list! With an abundance of lakes and wetlands, anyone can find a spectacular spot for angling.
In this guide, we’re going to cover the Louisiana fishing basics everyone should know. By the end, you’ll be ready to grab your tackle box and head to the water. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a fishing license in Louisiana?
General fishing licenses range from $2.50 to $13 for Louisiana residents. The cost for out of state visitors ranges from $17.50 to $30.
When do Louisiana fishing licenses expire?
Louisiana fishing licenses can be purchased any month and expire on the same day (June 30) every year. Licenses purchased in June expire in June of the following year. This means licenses purchased on June 1st last 13 months.
Where can I learn more about fishing in Louisiana?
You can learn more about recreational fishing in Louisiana at the official Wildlife & Fisheries website.
How to Get a Louisiana Fishing License
Everyone 16 years of age or older is required to have a fishing license in Louisiana.
Licenses are available for purchase both online and in stores. You can visit the Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries website and complete their application process to order and print licenses online.
Alternatively, you can purchase licenses at many stores that sell fishing and hunting supplies (including your local Walmart).
Requirements
You’ll need to provide the following information to purchase a fishing license online:
- Contact information
- Social security number
- Drivers license or ID card number
- Physical description (optional)
Types of licenses
There are several types of Louisiana fishing licenses you can purchase to access various fishing rights. Special fishing gear requires special permits, but for general activities, these are the 3 you should know about:
Hook and line license ($2.50)
This is the cheapest license available, and if you’re only interested in pole fishing, it’s all you need. The Louisiana hook and line license is meant for cane pole fishers who aren’t planning on heavy duty fishing.
Basic fishing license ($9.50)
A basic fishing license allows you to fish recreationally with standard gear in freshwater. (out of state $60)
Saltwater license ($13)
Saltwater fishing requires both a basic and saltwater license. If you plan on reeling in sharks, you’ll need to purchase this also. (out of state $30)
Visit the Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries website for more information.
Top 6 Louisiana Fishing Tips
Our fishing days began in Minden, Louisiana, where we’d visit Snookum’s Pond on early Saturday mornings to catch bream and catfish. Since then, we’ve been to the Gulf of Mexico and seen some of the best fishing spots in the south.
Needless to say, we have a few of our own tips and tricks for fishing in Louisiana.
Stick to the basics
Capitalism makes fishing look harder than it really is. You can purchase all sorts of jigs and decoy baits, but the basics will never fail. You simply can’t go wrong with a hook, a line, and a worm.
Use a worm call for free bait
Most people don’t realize there’s a trick to finding worms using a ‘worm call.’ You can sometimes draw worms out of the ground by planting a stick a few inches deep into the soil and rubbing another stick against it. This works especially well near the bases of trees, where pine straw or leaves have built up. The friction between the sticks sends out vibrations that bring worms out of hiding. For even better results, use 2 pieces of rebar.
Use stink baits
For best results landing catfish, use stinky bait. You can purchase commercially sold stink baits, but the best is chicken gizzards or livers. These baits are known to attract fish from far off, especially because of their distinctly funky smells.
Ditch the cork / bobber
Corks are useful when you want to fish on top of the water. They’re also great for teaching kids how to fish. But if you want the most control over how you fish, you should master the art of ‘tight-lining.’
Check the solunar forecast
Some of the best Louisiana fishermen (and women) swear by solunar forecasts. They believe certain variables, including time and weather, can predict fish movement and feeding patterns. Plan your fishing trips during times solunar forecasts say fish will be active, and you’re bound to see more action.
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen
Rods and reels steal all the attention, but water and sunscreen are just as important. Don’t forget the basics when you plan your fishing trips in the south. Louisiana is one of the hottest states to live in, with humidity levels that far exceed other regions in the United States. If you plan on fishing for long periods of time, it’s important to make sure you stay hydrated and protect your skin from damage.
5 Best Louisiana Fishing Locations
You don’t have to look far to find excellent spots for fishing in Louisiana. With so many to choose from, it can be difficult to decide on just one. We’ve done the research and found the top places you should know about if you want a standout fishing experience. Here are the 5 best Louisiana fishing locations:
Caney Lake
Caney Lake is one of the top freshwater fishing locations in Louisiana. It holds several of the state’s bass fishing records, with each weighing more than 15 pounds. Jimmie Davis State Park (located on the lake) has 2 boat launches and 11 piers, so whether you’re a boat or dock fisher, there’s opportunity for you.
Red River
Louisiana’s Red River catches a lot of attention from anglers throughout the state. Several fishing tournaments take place on the river, so you can test your skills there if you think you’re ready to hang with the pros. It’s populated with bass, crappie, and more, so if you’re looking for action, you’ll find plenty of it on the lake’s 260 mile stretch of freshwater.
Caddo Lake
Caddo Lake is another hotspot for fishing in Louisiana. Fish are known to nest beneath the roots of cypress trees that grow out of the water, so many anglers try their luck there. Stumps and trees prevent motorized boats from passing through the best fishing areas, so many use kayaks and paddle boats to get in close.
Lake D’Arbonne
Lake D’Arbonne is perfect for all kinds of fishing, and it’s easy to access. Many stop to fish on and around the spillway as they pass through Union Parish. There’s a casual nature to the fishing environment there, making it one of the best Louisiana fishing locations.
Toledo Bend
People from all over sing the praises of Toledo Bend Reservoir. It’s a go-to fishing spot for many who live near the Sabine River and considered one of the best locations for bass fishing in the country.
Final Words
You should now be ready for the best Louisiana fishing experience possible. Consider the details we’ve laid out for you, and you can’t go wrong.
Key points to remember
- Anyone 16 years or older must purchase a valid fishing license
- Sometimes the basics are the best–hook, line, and worm
- Visit Jimmie Davis State Park for the best all-around Louisiana fishing experience
Did we miss something?
Think this guide needs an edit or update? Let us know in the comments below!