Louisiana hunting seasons offer outdoor enthusiasts a chance to connect with nature and experience the thrill of the hunt. Regulated by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), these Louisiana hunting seasons provide opportunities to pursue a variety of game species, each with its own unique set of regulations and season dates. Whether you’re interested in deer, waterfowl, small game, turkeys, alligators, or other species, Louisiana’s diverse hunting opportunities are a testament to the state’s commitment to wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation.
When does hunting season begin?
Most of you are likely making preparations for the upcoming hunting seasons. Our team has compiled the following schedule of upcoming Louisiana hunting seasons for your convenience.
| Season | Start Date | End Date |
| Alligator – East Zone See regulations for further details. | Aug 30, 2023 | Oct 29, 2023 |
| Alligator – West Zone See regulations for further details. | Sep 6, 2023 | Nov 5, 2023 |
| Bobcat Experimental year round season. | Jan 1, 2023 | Dec 31, 2023 |
| Coyote Year round hunting. No limit. | Jan 1, 2023 | Dec 31, 2023 |
| Dove – North Zone 1 Mourning, white-winged, eurasian collared, and ringed turtle doves are among this season. Daily bag limit 15 in aggregate. | Sep 2, 2023 | Sep 24, 2023 |
| Dove – South Zone 1 Mourning, white-winged, eurasian collared, and ringed turtle doves are among this season. Daily bag limit 15 in aggregate. | Sep 2, 2023 | Sep 17, 2023 |
| Dove – North Zone 2 Mourning, white-winged, eurasian collared, and ringed turtle doves are among this season. Daily bag limit 15 in aggregate. | Oct 7, 2023 | Nov 12, 2023 |
| Dove – South Zone 2 Mourning, white-winged, eurasian collared, and ringed turtle doves are among this season. Daily bag limit 15 in aggregate. | Oct 14, 2023 | Nov 26, 2023 |
| Dove – South Zone 3 Mourning, white-winged, eurasian collared, and ringed turtle doves are among this season. Daily bag limit 15 in aggregate. | Dec 16, 2023 | Jan 14, 2024 |
| Dove – North Zone 3 Mourning, white-winged, eurasian collared, and ringed turtle doves are among this season. Daily bag limit 15 in aggregate. | Dec 23, 2023 | Jan 21, 2024 |
| Duck – Early Teal Teal (blue-winged, green-winged, and cinnamon). Daily bag limit is 6. | Sep 15, 2023 | Sep 30, 2023 |
| Duck – West Zone Youth Ducks, coots, and mergansers. Daily bag limit for ducks is 6 and may include no more than 4 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be females), 2 canvasback, 1 mottled duck, 1 black duck, 3 wood ducks, 2 redheads, and 1 pintail. (Check regs for Scaup) | Nov 4, 2023 | Nov 5, 2023 |
| Duck – East Zone – Early Youth Ducks, coots, and mergansers. Daily bag limit for ducks is 6 and may include no more than 4 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be females), 2 canvasback, 1 mottled duck, 1 black duck, 3 wood ducks, 2 redheads, and 1 pintail. (Check regs for Scaup) | Nov 11, 2023 | Nov 11, 2023 |
| Duck – West Zone 1 Ducks, coots, and mergansers. Daily bag limit for ducks is 6 and may include no more than 4 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be females), 2 canvasback, 1 mottled duck, 1 black duck, 3 wood ducks, 2 redheads, and 1 pintail. (Check regs for Scaup) | Nov 11, 2023 | Dec 3, 2023 |
| Duck – East Zone 1 Ducks, coots, and mergansers. Daily bag limit for ducks is 6 and may include no more than 4 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be females), 2 canvasback, 1 mottled duck, 1 black duck, 3 wood ducks, 2 redheads, and 1 pintail. (Check regs for Scaup) | Nov 18, 2023 | Dec 3, 2023 |
| Duck – West Zone 2 Ducks, coots, and mergansers. Daily bag limit for ducks is 6 and may include no more than 4 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be females), 2 canvasback, 1 mottled duck, 1 black duck, 3 wood ducks, 2 redheads, and 1 pintail. (Check regs for Scaup) | Dec 11, 2023 | Jan 7, 2024 |
| Duck – East Zone 2 Ducks, coots, and mergansers. Daily bag limit for ducks is 6 and may include no more than 4 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be females), 2 canvasback, 1 mottled duck, 1 black duck, 3 wood ducks, 2 redheads, and 1 pintail. (Check regs for Scaup) | Dec 16, 2023 | Jan 28, 2024 |
| Duck – West Zone 3 Ducks, coots, and mergansers. Daily bag limit for ducks is 6 and may include no more than 4 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be females), 2 canvasback, 1 mottled duck, 1 black duck, 3 wood ducks, 2 redheads, and 1 pintail. (Check regs for Scaup) | Jan 13, 2024 | Jan 21, 2024 |
| Duck – East Zone – Late Youth Ducks, coots, and mergansers. Daily bag limit for ducks is 6 and may include no more than 4 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be females), 2 canvasback, 1 mottled duck, 1 black duck, 3 wood ducks, 2 redheads, and 1 pintail. (Check regs for Scaup) | Feb 3, 2024 | Feb 3, 2024 |
| Goose – East Zone 1 Daily limits: Canada Geese 1, Light Geese (Snow, Blue, and Ross’) 20, White-fronted Geese 3. | Nov 4, 2023 | Feb 3, 2024 |
| Goose – West Zone 1 Daily limits: Canada Geese 1, Light Geese (Snow, Blue, and Ross’) 20, White-fronted Geese 3. | Nov 4, 2023 | Feb 3, 2024 |
| Goose – Conservation Order – East Zone – 1 East Zone. Light Geese (Snow, Blue, and Ross’). | Dec 4, 2023 | Dec 15, 2023 |
| Goose – Conservation Order – West Zone – 1 West Zone. Light Geese (Snow, Blue, and Ross’). | Dec 4, 2023 | Dec 10, 2023 |
| Goose – West Zone 2 Daily limits: Canada Geese 1, Light Geese (Snow, Blue, and Ross’) 20, White-fronted Geese 3. | Dec 11, 2023 | Jan 7, 2024 |
| Goose – East Zone 2 Daily limits: Canada Geese 1, Light Geese (Snow, Blue, and Ross’) 20, White-fronted Geese 3. | Dec 16, 2023 | Jan 28, 2024 |
| Goose – Conservation Order – West Zone – 2 West Zone. Light Geese (Snow, Blue, and Ross’). | Jan 8, 2024 | Jan 12, 2024 |
| Goose – West Zone 3 Daily limits: Canada Geese 1, Light Geese (Snow, Blue, and Ross’) 20, White-fronted Geese 3. | Jan 13, 2024 | Jan 28, 2024 |
| Goose – Conservation Order – East Zone – 2 East Zone. Light Geese (Snow, Blue, and Ross’). | Jan 29, 2024 | Mar 3, 2024 |
| Goose – Conservation Order – West Zone – 3 West Zone. Light Geese (Snow, Blue and Ross’) | Jan 29, 2024 | Mar 3, 2024 |
| Goose – Conservation Order – West Zone – 3 West Zone. Light Geese (Snow, Blue and Ross’) | Jan 29, 2024 | Mar 3, 2024 |
| Hog Year round hunting. No limit. | Jan 1, 2023 | Dec 31, 2023 |
| Pheasant No limit. | Nov 18, 2023 | Feb 29, 2024 |
| Quail Daily bag limit is 10. | Nov 18, 2023 | Feb 29, 2024 |
| Rabbit Daily bag limit 8. | Oct 7, 2023 | Feb 29, 2024 |
| Turkey – Spring Youth and Disabled hunters. Area A, B, C. | Mar 29, 2024 | Mar 31, 2024 |
| Turkey – Spring A Area A. | Apr 6, 2024 | May 5, 2024 |
| Turkey – Spring B Area B. | Apr 6, 2024 | Apr 28, 2024 |
| Turkey – Spring C Area C. | Apr 6, 2024 | Apr 21, 2024 |
What Kinds of Ducks are in Louisiana?
Along with ducks, a variety of duck species may be found in Louisiana. On their journey to the warmer southern regions, ducks make their annual winter migration stop in Louisiana. In Louisiana, a few of the most prevalent duck species are:
- Mallards
- Wood Duck
- Black Duck
- Blue-winged teals
- Green-winged teals
- Mergansers
- Hooded Mergansers
- American Widgeon
- Gadwalls
- Northern Pintail
- Sea ducks (scoter, eiders, and long-tailed)
Meet the Species: 3 of the Most Common Ducks in Louisiana
- Gadwall: The gadwall is not the most colorful duck, yet Louisiana harvests the most of them. They have a light brown hue overall because to the mixture of brown, tan, and gray feathers. Their white wing tips shine out against their black wings, beak, and tail feathers.
- Blue-winged teal: Beginners may find it challenging to identify blue-winged teals since the color that stands out the most on their wings is a green stripe. However, the teal’s name is given by a combination of light blue and gray feathers above that. The white band in the form of a crescent that runs behind the eyes on its head is another giveaway.
- Green-winged teal: You get twice as much green with the green-winged teal. They have a green patch that extends backward from their eye and a green stripe on their lower wing.
Hunting rules in Louisiana
Deer
| Season | Start Date | End Date |
| Deer – A1 Primitive Either-Sex 2 Area 1. | Jan 22, 2023 | Jan 31, 2024 |
| Deer – A3 Archery Either-Sex Area 3. | Sep 16, 2023 | Jan 15, 2024 |
| Deer – A7 Archery Either-Sex Area 7. | Sep 16, 2023 | Jan 15, 2024 |
| Deer – A8 Archery Either-Sex Area 8. | Sep 16, 2023 | Jan 15, 2024 |
| Deer – A10 Archery Either-Sex Area 10. | Sep 16, 2023 | Jan 15, 2024 |
| Deer – A1 Archery Either-Sex Area 1. | Oct 1, 2023 | Jan 31, 2024 |
| Deer – A2 Archery Either-Sex Area 2. | Oct 1, 2023 | Jan 31, 2024 |
| Deer – A4 Archery Either-Sex Area 4. | Oct 1, 2023 | Jan 31, 2024 |
| Deer – A5 Archery Bucks Only Area 5. See regulations regarding hunting with or without dogs. | Oct 1, 2023 | Oct 15, 2023 |
| Deer – A6 Archery Bucks Only Area 6. | Oct 1, 2023 | Oct 15, 2023 |
| Deer – A9 Archery Bucks Only Area 9. See regulations regarding hunting with or without dogs | Oct 1, 2023 | Oct 15, 2023 |
| Deer – A3 Primitive Either-Sex 1 Area 3. | Oct 14, 2023 | Oct 20, 2023 |
| Deer – A7 Primitive Either-Sex 1 Area 7. | Oct 14, 2023 | Oct 20, 2023 |
| Deer – A8 Primitive Either-Sex 1 Area 8. | Oct 14, 2023 | Oct 20, 2023 |
| Deer – A10 Primitive Either-Sex 1 Area 10. | Oct 14, 2023 | Oct 20, 2023 |
| Deer – A5 Archery Either-Sex Area 5. See regulations regarding hunting with or without dogs. | Oct 16, 2023 | Feb 15, 2024 |
| Deer – A6 Archery Either-Sex Area 6. | Oct 16, 2023 | Feb 15, 2024 |
| Deer – A9 Archery Either-Sex Area 9. See regulations regarding hunting with or without dogs | Oct 16, 2023 | Feb 15, 2024 |
| Deer – A2 Primitive Either-Sex 1 Area 2. | Oct 21, 2023 | Oct 27, 2023 |
| Deer – A3 Firearm Either-Sex Area 3. Still-Hunt Only | Oct 21, 2023 | Nov 26, 2023 |
| Deer – A7 Firearm Either-Sex Area 7. Still-Hunt Only | Oct 21, 2023 | Nov 26, 2023 |
| Deer – A8 Firearm Either-Sex Area 8. Still-Hunt Only | Oct 21, 2023 | Nov 26, 2023 |
| Deer – A10 Firearm Either-Sex Area 10. Still-Hunt Only | Oct 21, 2023 | Oct 21, 2023 |
| Deer – A2 Firearm Either-Sex Area 2. Still-Hunt Only | Oct 28, 2023 | Dec 5, 2023 |
| Deer – A1 Primitive Either-Sex 1 Area 1. | Nov 11, 2023 | Nov 17, 2023 |
| Deer – A4 Primitive Either-Sex 1 Area 4. | Nov 11, 2023 | Nov 17, 2023 |
| Deer – A5 Primitive Either-Sex Area 5. See regulations regarding hunting with or without dogs. | Nov 11, 2023 | Nov 17, 2023 |
| Deer – A6 Primitive Either-Sex 1 Area 6. | Nov 11, 2023 | Nov 17, 2023 |
| Deer – A9 Primitive Either-Sex Area 9. See regulations regarding hunting with or without dogs | Nov 11, 2023 | Nov 17, 2023 |
| Deer – A1 Firearm Either-Sex 1 Area 1. Still-Hunt Only | Nov 18, 2023 | Dec 8, 2023 |
| Deer – A4 Firearm Either-Sex 1 Area 4. Still-Hunt Only | Nov 18, 2023 | Dec 8, 2023 |
| Deer – A5 Firearm Either-Sex Still-Hunt Only 1 Area 5. Still-Hunt Only | Nov 18, 2023 | Nov 19, 2023 |
| Deer – A6 Firearm Either-Sex Area 6. Still-Hunt Only | Nov 18, 2023 | Dec 8, 2023 |
| Deer – A9 Firearm Either-Sex 1 Area 9. Still-Hunt Only | Nov 18, 2023 | Nov 19, 2023 |
| Deer – A5 Firearm Bucks Only Still-Hunt Only 1 Area 5. Still-Hunt Only. | Nov 20, 2023 | Nov 23, 2023 |
| Deer – A9 Firearm Bucks Only 1 Area 9. Still-Hunt Only | Nov 20, 2023 | Nov 23, 2023 |
| Deer – A5 Firearm Either-Sex Still-Hunt Only 2 Area 5. Still-Hunt Only. | Nov 24, 2023 | Nov 26, 2023 |
| Deer – A9 Firearm Either-Sex 2 Area 9. Still-Hunt Only | Nov 24, 2023 | Nov 26, 2023 |
| Deer – A3 Firearm Either-Sex with or without dogs Area 3. | Nov 27, 2023 | Dec 31, 2023 |
| Deer – A5 Firearm Bucks Still-Hunt Only 2 Area 5. Still-Hunt Only. | Nov 27, 2023 | Dec 8, 2023 |
| Deer – A7 Firearm with or without dogs. Area 7. | Nov 27, 2023 | Dec 31, 2023 |
| Deer – A8 Firearm Either-Sex with or without dogs Area 8. | Nov 27, 2023 | Dec 31, 2023 |
| Deer – A9 Firearm Bucks Only 2 Area 9. Still-Hunt Only | Nov 27, 2023 | Dec 8, 2023 |
| Deer – A2 Firearm Either-Sex with or without dogs Area 2. | Dec 6, 2023 | Jan 14, 2024 |
| Deer – A1 Firearm Either-Sex with or without dogs. Area 1. | Dec 9, 2023 | Jan 7, 2024 |
| Deer – A4 Firearm Either-Sex with or without dogs Area 4. | Dec 9, 2023 | Jan 7, 2024 |
| Deer – A5 Firearm Either-Sex with or without dogs 1 Area 5. | Dec 9, 2023 | Dec 10, 2023 |
| Deer – A6 Firearm Either-Sex with or without dogs Area 6. | Dec 9, 2023 | Jan 21, 2024 |
| Deer – A9 Firearm Either-Sex with or without dogs 1 Area 9. | Dec 9, 2023 | Dec 10, 2023 |
| Deer – A5 Firearm Bucks Only with or without dogs 1 Area 5. | Dec 11, 2023 | Dec 15, 2023 |
| Deer – A9 Firearm Bucks Only with or without dogs 1 Area 9. | Dec 11, 2023 | Dec 15, 2023 |
| Deer – A5 Firearm Either-Sex with or without dogs 2 Area 5. | Dec 16, 2023 | Dec 17, 2023 |
| Deer – A9 Firearm Either-Sex with or without dogs 2 Area 9. | Dec 16, 2023 | Dec 17, 2023 |
| Deer – A5 Firearm Bucks Only with or without dogs 2 Area 5 | Dec 18, 2023 | Jan 21, 2024 |
| Deer – A9 Firearm Bucks Only with or without dogs 2 Area 9. | Dec 18, 2023 | Jan 21, 2024 |
| Deer – A3 Primitive Either-Sex 2 Area 3. | Jan 1, 2024 | Jan 7, 2024 |
| Deer – A7 Primitive Either-Sex 2 Area 7. | Jan 1, 2024 | Jan 7, 2024 |
| Deer – A8 Primitive Either-Sex 2 Area 8. | Jan 1, 2024 | Jan 7, 2024 |
| Deer – A10 Primitive Either-Sex 2 Area 10. | Jan 1, 2024 | Jan 1, 2024 |
| Deer – A1 Firearm Either-Sex 2 Area 1. Still-Hunt Only | Jan 8, 2024 | Jan 21, 2024 |
| Deer – A4 Firearm Either-Sex 2 Area 4. Still-Hunt Only. | Jan 21, 2024 | Jan 20, 2024 |
| Deer – A2 Primitive Either-Sex 2 Area 2. | Jan 15, 2024 | Jan 21, 2024 |
| Deer – A4 Primitive Either-Sex 2 Area 4. | Jan 22, 2024 | Jan 31, 2024 |
| Deer – A5 Primitive Bucks Only Area 5. See regulations regarding hunting with or without dogs. | Jan 22, 2024 | Jan 31, 2024 |
| Deer – A6 Primitive Either-Sex 2 Area 6. | Jan 22, 2024 | Jan 31, 2024 |
| Deer – A9 Primitive Bucks Only Area 9. See regulations regarding hunting with or without dogs | Jan 22, 2024 | Jan 22, 2024 |
Hunter Orange & Blaze Pink
Anyone using buckshot, slugs, a primitive firearm, or a centerfire weapon when hunting any animals during the open firearms hunting deer season must wear at least 400 square inches of “Hunter Orange” or “Blaze Pink” on their head, chest, and/or back. Exceptions: In place of the 400 square inches, hunters on privately held land may wear a cap or headgear in either Hunter Orange or Blaze Pink.
Not necessary for those who shoot deer from high stands on privately owned property. However, anybody using a firearm to shoot deer on such grounds should show the 400 square inches or a Hunter Orange or Blaze Pink helmet or hat when approaching and leaving high stands. Archery deer hunting on sites where weapon hunting is prohibited by permission of the proprietor or lessee is not necessary. Deer hunters are advised to keep an eye out for people who are hunting other animals or participating in other activities that don’t call for “Hunter Orange” or “Blaze Pink.”
Archery Legal Gear
Traditional bows, compound bows, crossbows, and any other bow pulled, held, or released mechanically are all acceptable pieces of equipment during the archery season. In all regions that are available for deer shooting, either-sex deer may be taken, EXCEPT when a Bucks Only season is in effect. In these circumstances, archers must abide with the rules that apply to bucks exclusively.
Primitive Weapons Legal Gear
Lawful Arms for Simple Firearms Rifles or pistols are included in the season.All firearms must load solely from the muzzle, use only black powder or a permitted alternative, and only accept projectiles such as ball, shot, or bullets, including sabotage bullets, if they are at least 44 caliber or shotguns 10 gauge or less. Magnified scopes can be added to any of the aforementioned.
Single shot, breech loading pistols or rifles, respectively.35 caliber or bigger, with an exposed hammer, using metallic cartridges filled with either contemporary smokeless powder or black powder. Magnified scopes can be added to any of the aforementioned. Shotguns that are single shot, breech loading, 10 gauge or smaller, with an exposed hammer and buckshot or slug ammo.
Shooting Hours
The time for shooting is from a half-hour before sunrise to a half-hour after sundown. Schedules for Federal Land and Wildlife Management regions provide particular rules and deadlines for certain regions.
Daily Limit
One deer with antlers and one deer without antlers every day, with the exception of when a “Bucks Only” season is in effect, on the Floy Ward McElroy WMA, and on select federal lands where there is a daily limit of only one deer per day.
Season Limit
The season limit is six deer, not to exceed three antlered or four antlerless deer, with the exception of Deer Area 4 and Deer Area 10, where the season maximum is three deer, not to exceed either two antlered or two antlerless deer. The season or daily bag restriction for hunters may not apply to deer taken on property covered by DMAP. For further details, refer to DMAP Regulations.
Prohibited Activities
- Taking, attempting to take, attracting, or scouting wildlife while using scents or lures containing natural deer urine or other bodily fluids, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF NATURAL DEER UTILI products made by producers or entities actively enrolled and participating in the Responsible Hunting Scent Association or the Archery Trade Association Deer Protection Program, and whose products have been tested and certified that no detectable levels of CWD are present.
- Take or possession of spotted fawns.
- Use shotguns loaded with anything other than buckshot or slug to take down deer. Centerfire weapons less than.22 caliber. Rim weapons smaller than.30 caliber. Pre-charged pneumatic weapons may be used during the modern firearms season for deer as long as they discharge a projectile with a minimum muzzle velocity of 800 feet per second and a minimum diameter of.30 caliber, or any combination of bullet weight and muzzle velocity that generates a minimum muzzle energy of 215 foot pounds. Only well-sharpened broadhead points may be used with arrows or bolts fired from a pre-charged pneumatic device, and they may only be used to hunt deer during the contemporary rifle deer season. Hunting may be done using handguns.
- Deer should not be disturbed while swimming.
- Hunting a deer while on a boat with the motor attached and running is prohibited, however those who have lost one or more limbs are exempt from this rule.
- Capturing game quadrupeds or birds for sport from an airplane, or helping to take deer from an aircraft or any other moving vehicle.
- When and when a still hunting season or region is defined, pursuing, driving, or shooting deer with dogs or moving vehicles.
- Deer dog training in open still Louisiana hunting seasons in places suitable for still hunting.
Process for Tagging Deer
- Before moving the deer from the kill site, the hunter must immediately tag the animal with the proper carcass or electronic tag.
- On the harvest report card section of the deer tag license, the hunter must write down the date of the kill for the appropriate tag number, or submit the harvest electronically.
- On the carcass tag or in an electronic report, the hunter must note the day and parish of the kill.
- While the deer is held at camp, while it is transferred to the hunter’s home or to a cold storage facility, or both, the tag must stay on the animal. The resident game possession tag rules must also be followed by hunters who retain the carcass or meat at camp.
- The hunter must verify the harvest within 72 hours. By using text-to-tag, tagging through the LDWF website or the LDWF website through LA Wallet, contacting the toll-free validation number 225-267-9998, or using the validation wildlife and fisheries website www.LouisianaOutdoors.com, hunters can validate deer.
Migratory Birds
Woodcock – Bag Limit
Daily Bag Limit: 3 Possession Limit: 9
Shooting & Hawking Hours
1. Ducks, Geese, Teal, Rail, Gallinule, Snipe and Woodcock: One-Half Hour before sunrise to sunset, EXCEPT:
- At the Spanish Lake Recreation Area in Iberia Parish, snipe shooting hours, as well as the Conservation Order, must conclude at 2 p.m.
2. Mourning Dove: An hour and a half before dawn to dusk With the exception of Elbow Slough WMA, which will be open from one-half hour before sunrise to 12 p.m. (noon) on opening weekend of the first split, shooting hours on WMAs and LDWF-leased dove fields will be from noon to sunset on opening day of the first split.
Mourning, White-winged, Fully Dressed Eurasian Collared, & Ringed Turtle Doves – Bag Limit
Daily Bag Limit: 15 in the aggregate. Possession Limit: 45 in the aggregate.
King & Clapper Rails – Bag Limit
Daily Bag Limit: 15 in the aggregate. Possession Limit: 45 in the aggregate.
Sora & Virginia Rails – Bag Limit
Daily Bag Limit: 25 in the aggregate. Possession Limit: 75 in the aggregate.
Snipe – Bag Limit
Daily Bag Limit: 8. Possession Limit: 24.
Canada Geese – Bag Limit
Daily Bag Limit: 1. Possession Limit: 3.
Light Geese (Snow, Blue, Ross’) – Bag Limit
Daily Bag Limit: 20 Possession Limit: No Limit.
White Fronted Geese – Bag Limit
Daily Bag Limit: 3 Possession Limit: 9
Small Game
Quail – Bag Limit
Daily Bag Limit: 10 Possession Limit: 30
Rabbit – Bag Limit
Daily Bag Limit: 8 Possession Limit: 24
Bobcat – Bag Limit
1 per calendar year.
Squirrel – Bag Limit
Daily Bag Limit: 3 Possession Limit: 9
Raccoon – Bag Limit
During the open hunting season, a licensed hunter may take two raccoons or opossums per person per day, only during the day.
to WMAs. Experimental midnight raccoon hunting is only ever done with dogs in places where it is legal.
Turkey
Legal Gear
Shotguns, including muzzleloaders, that are no larger than 10 gauge and use shot no larger than #2 lead, #2 non-toxic, or BB steel shot. Any bow pulled, held, or released mechanically, including traditional bows, compound bows, crossbows, and others.
Daily Limit
One gobbler per day.
Season Limit
Two gobblers per season.
Shooting Hours
The time for shooting is from a half-hour before sunrise to a half-hour after sundown. Schedules for Federal Land and Wildlife Management regions provide particular rules and deadlines for certain regions.
Waterfowl
Conservation Order for Light Geese
No bag or possession limit. See “Geese” section for more details.
Non-Toxic Shot Regulations
No person shall take migratory game birds while possessing shot other than steel or other approved shot. This restriction applies only to ducks, light geese, brant, swans and coots.
Teal (Blue-winged, Green-winged, Cinnamon) – Bag Limit
Daily Bag Limit: 6 Possession Limit: 18
Gallinules – Bag Limit
Daily Bag Limit: 15 Possession Limit: 45
Ducks – Bag Limit
Six ducks are allowed to be taken every day, with a maximum of four mallards (two of which may be females), three wood ducks, two canvasbacks, two redheads, one mottled duck, one black duck, and one pintail. For the first 15 days of the season, only one scaup may be caught; for the next 15 days, two may be taken each day.
Coots – Bag Limit
The daily bag limit for coots is 15.
Mergansers – Bag Limit
Merganser bag limits are 5 per day, however only 2 of those can be hooded mergansers. The daily bag restriction for ducks is in addition to the merganser limitations.
Where can you Duck Hunt in Louisiana?
8,000 square miles of water surround Louisiana, so perhaps the solution is almost anyplace! At the Pass-a-Loutre Wildlife Management Area (WMA), where the Mississippi River flows into the Gulf, some of the best duck hunting may be found. The Russel Sage WMA and Atchafalaya Delta WMA are just two of the numerous additional WMAs that provide exceptional duck hunting opportunities.
What are the Hunting Zones in Louisiana?
The West Zone and the East Zone are the two zones that make up Louisiana. With the exception of all coastal sea hunting taken into account in the West Zone, it is split practically evenly.
Where are the public hunting areas in Louisiana?
More than 1.6 million acres are maintained by Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries. The state also contains substantial areas of hunting land that is maintained by the government.
Forests and parks: Hunting is prohibited in the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve and Kisatchie National Forest. These websites can be restricted and need authorization.
Wildlife camps: In Louisiana, the USFWS manages 23 national wildlife refuges. With certain restrictions, hunting is permitted in many of these places. There are 550,000 acres of wildlife refuges in Louisiana.
Wildlife-protected areas: There are several public hunting WMAs in Louisiana. Because they are important to many animal species and ecosystems, these sites are carefully preserved.
State wildlife preserves: There are 8 wildlife refuges in Louisiana. There are some of these places that permit hunting, albeit the methods and kinds of animals vary.
Protected Natural Areas: The nature reserves in Louisiana include White Lake and Ben Lilly. Only White Lake permits hunting, despite the fact that it offers excellent waterfowl viewing. White Lake hunting licenses are awarded through lottery.
| Location | Acres | Zip | Game |
| Grant Parish | 38,450 | 71407 | Whitetail Deer, Hog, Exotics |
| Rapides Paris | 2,300 | 71360 | Duck, Exotics |
| Union Parish | 53,000 | 71260 | Whitetail Deer, Duck, Predator, Exotics |
| Madison Parish | 80,000 | 71282 | Whitetail Deer, Duck, Predator, Exotics |
| Iberia | 184,000 | 70560 | Exotics |
| Cameron | 125,790 | 70645 | Duck, Exotics |
| Natchitoches | 1,377 | 71112 | Turkey, Duck, Predator, Exotics |
| Avoyelles | 350 | 71351 | Whitetail Deer, Predator, Exotics |
| Cameron | 34,724 | 70630 | Duck, Exotics |
| Morehouse | 466 | 71220 | Duck, Exotics |
Hunting Lands in Louisiana Near Me:
More than 2,000 public hunting properties exist in Louisiana, offering excellent possibilities for hunters. The minimum age to hunt on any hunting land is 17, and a current license is also required. A hunting map book may be used by hunters to locate any public hunting field. Some properties demand on-site registration while others allow online registration in advance of hunting.Public hunting areas do not permit hunting from automobiles; the use of motor vehicles is restricted to those with impairments.
Hunters are allowed to bring their animals onto hunting grounds, but they must have a recent vaccination slip with them. On hunting lands, there are authorized camping spots, however it’s against the law to stay there for more than 21 days in a row in a 30-day period. Hunting guests may also use the opulent restrooms. Additionally, no alcohol or illegal substances may be brought onto these hunting grounds by sportsmen. Additionally to hunting, these grounds provide opportunities for fishing, trapping, hiking, skiing, and horseback riding.
Public Hunting Lands in Louisiana:
Hunting is permitted for a variety of game species in Louisiana, including deer, turkey, pheasants, and a number of small game. There are two options for hunters interested in going animal hunting on this property to get licenses and permits: through a licensing agent, over the phone, or online. Both Louisiana citizens and nonresidents can purchase licenses and permits, and the costs range. Louisiana has a number of hunting-friendly initiatives. More than 1,349,000 acres of hunting land are available in Louisiana, offering wonderful opportunity for those who like the sport.
Additionally, there are specific laws and restrictions for each hunting area in this state that all hunters must abide by or risk having their licenses revoked. However, dogs are not allowed to be used to hunt Deer, Turkey, Muskrat, Mink, River Otter, or Beaver in this state. In order to be recognized, hunters must also wear their orange when out hunting.
Best Public Hunting Lands In Louisiana:
Although the state is well recognized for its stunning beaches and warm climate, hunting is also remarkable! Feral pigs, feral goats, and deer are all common game in Louisiana. The hunting laws in Louisiana differ by region, or unit, as the state is made up of a chain of islands with several preserves and wildlife management zones. The Louisiana Division of Forestry and Wildlife is in charge of all of these entities.The only prerequisites for hunting these animals are an active basic hunting license and an active hunting permit for a particular parcel of private lands or public territory.
Additionally, this state has mild weather all year long, which makes it a fantastic hunting location. Private lands owners profit greatly from the more than 2,000 non-resident hunters that come to this state each year to pursue large game. Additionally, the hunting industry in this state generates more than $2.2 million annually, of which $1.5 million comes from selling hunting gear and $0.7 million from leasing out property. Last but not least, there are special hunting zones in Louisiana for physically disabled persons.
What are Shooting Hours?
In Louisiana, you can shoot from a half-hour before sunrise until sunset. For Light Geese (Snow, Blue, and Ross’s), the hours are prolonged by a half-hour after sunset under the Conservation Order for Light Geese (Snow, Blue, and Ross’s).
What guns and equipment can I use during hunting season?
Gear Up
The only equipment you could want for a fast morning hunt in one of the flooded grain fields is your gun, a caller, and waders. You will need extra equipment if you desire an adventure and wish to hunt in the Pass-a-Loutre Wildlife Management Area, which is accessible only by boat. Additionally, there is everything in between, and each hunter must develop their own approach. You’ll be able to modify your preferred equipment more as you gain expertise. The following is a list of some of the advised equipment:
- Often a 12-gauge or 20-gauge shotgun
- To keep your rifle dry and free of moisture, use a case or bag.
- Shells, commonly 3″ shells
- To determine the type of blind you will need—a duck blind or a boat blind—be careful to survey the region where you intend to hunt.
- Have a properly fitting life jacket or PFD on hand if you want to hunt from a kayak, canoe, or duck boat.
- Decoys: There are many different ideas on the “best decoy spread,” but you should actually test one out to see what works for you and the species you are aiming for. Numerous more options include mojos mounted on poles above the water, moving decoys, and floating decoys. Choose the lightest ones that appear the most authentic.
- Camouflage: Louisiana offers one of the broadest ranges of ecosystems for duck hunting, therefore your camouflage will need to complement your surroundings. You must consider what garments you need in a matching camo whether you are hunting in coastal marshes, a flooded grain field, or along the Mississippi.
- Duck callers: It’s crucial to pick the appropriate caller for your intended species. Many waterfowlers may use a 6-in-1 caller or a series of calls to attract birds. They are priced from as low as $10 up to the equivalent of a $100 musical instrument. Keep in mind that Louisiana does not accept electronic callers. Your success will be greatly impacted by how well you practice and polish your duck call.
- You have the option of separate waders with open feet or one-piece waders with the boots connected. Others feature shell holders, reinforced knees, and fleece-lined hand warmer pockets. Some will have zip-in liners so you may change them according to the weather.
- Dog (optional, of course, and technically not “gear”): Hunting with your dog may be a lot of fun! In addition to select pointers and spaniels, retrievers were also developed specifically for this purpose. Pack supplies for your dog as well, including lots of food, water, a leash for walking between locations, and a towel. For hunting dogs, they also produce camouflaged protection garments that you might wish to take into account.
- First Aid Kit: Although duck hunting is a relatively risk-free activity, there are risks associated with wading in uncharted waterways, catching and stringing ducks, and general water safety. It’s crucial to always have a first aid kit on hand.
Success Hunting
You have some influence over certain aspects of duck hunting, such as whether you’ll bring your noisy relative the next time, yet you have no control over others, such as driving rain and 35 mph winds. Your blind, your decoys, and the weather for your hunt are some of the crucial aspects to think about when duck hunting.
- Blind: Your blind’s kind and location both have a significant impact. Take your time to pick out the greatest location and do your research.
- Decoy Spread: Experiment with various arrangements. Try something new or observe what your neighbor’s party is doing without hesitation. Twelve ducks spread out should be plenty, but if you are hunting with a few other people, you may make a spread of 36 or more ducks.
- Weather: If you’re going to the beach, you want it to be warm, bright, and breezy. hunters of ducks choose the contrary! The ideal weather will undoubtedly include some wind, but most people prefer colder, gloomy days.
FAQs
1. Is duck hunting legal in Louisiana?
Duck hunting is legal in Louisiana. A hunting license, a Federal Duck Stamp, and a HIP certification are requirements for waterfowl hunters.
2. What duck species are most prevalent in Louisiana?
Gadwall, Blue-winged teal, and Green-winged teal are the three duck species that are most often taken in Louisiana.
3. Are there any public properties in Louisiana that permit hunting?
In Louisiana, several government agencies are in charge of a sizable area. Like state-owned public lands, these locations are excellent for hunting, fishing, and bird watching. On public property, a lot of activities require licenses and authorization.
4. Is a hunting license required in Louisiana?
Anyone wishing to hunt in Louisiana who was born on or after September 1, 1969, must complete an authorized hunter education course. A 10-year-old is required for certification.
5. What is Louisiana’s gadwall duck bag limit?
Gadwall ducks are limited to six daily harvests.
6. How many ducks were harvested in Louisiana last year compared to other states?
Based on a 10-year average, Louisiana harvests the most ducks than any other state.