What You Need to Fish Louisiana's Salt Waters as a Visitor

If you are not a Louisiana resident and want to fish in saltwater — the Gulf of Mexico, bays, and coastal areas — you need a nonresident saltwater fishing license. Louisiana's Department of Wildlife and Fisheries issues these licenses in several timeframes: 3-day, 7-day, 14-day, and annual options. You can buy one online, by phone, or in person at authorized retailers across the state.

The license covers saltwater species only — redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and others in the Gulf and bays. If you plan to fish freshwater (rivers, lakes, ponds), you need a separate freshwater license. The saltwater license does not cover oyster harvesting or other shellfish — those require their own permits.

Key Takeaways

  • Nonresident saltwater licenses come in 3-day, 7-day, 14-day, and annual options, with prices varying by length.
  • You can purchase online through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website, by phone, or at tackle shops and sporting goods retailers statewide.
  • The license covers saltwater fishing only and does not include freshwater species or shellfish harvesting.
  • You must carry your license with you while fishing and show it to a wildlife officer if asked.

Where to Buy Your License

The fastest route is the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website at wlf.louisiana.gov. You can purchase and print your license immediately, or have it sent to your email. The online system accepts credit and debit cards and takes about five minutes.

If you prefer to buy in person, authorized retailers include most tackle shops, sporting goods stores (Bass Pro Shops, Academy Sports), and some Walmart locations. Call ahead to confirm they carry nonresident saltwater licenses, since not all locations stock every license type.

You can also call the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries directly. They can process your order over the phone and mail the physical license to you, though this takes longer than online purchase if you need it before your trip.

License Types and How Long They Last

The 3-day license is the shortest option and works well for a quick fishing trip. The 7-day license covers a week and is popular for visitors planning a longer stay. The 14-day license extends that to two weeks, useful if you are renting a house or staying with family for an extended visit.

The annual nonresident license runs for one calendar year from the date of purchase and is the best value if you plan multiple trips to Louisiana within a year. Prices vary by license type; the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website shows current pricing when you select each option.

What Information You Will Need

To purchase online or by phone, have your driver's license or state ID ready. You will need your name, date of birth, and address. If buying in person at a retailer, bring the same ID.

You do not need to list which waters you plan to fish or which species you are targeting — the license covers all saltwater fishing in Louisiana. However, some species have size and bag limits (the number you can keep per day), so check the current regulations before you fish.

Regulations and Bag Limits

Your license lets you fish, but it does not override Louisiana's catch rules. Redfish have a daily bag limit of three fish per person with a 16-inch minimum length. Speckled trout limits are 25 fish per day with a 10-inch minimum. Flounder must be 12 inches or longer, with a 10-fish daily limit.

These limits change occasionally, so check the current Louisiana fishing regulations on the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website before your trip. Some areas also have seasonal closures or special restrictions — the website lists these by region and by species.

You must keep your license with you at all times while fishing. Wildlife officers can ask to see it, and fishing without a valid license carries fines.

Fishing From a Charter Boat or Guided Trip

If you book a charter boat or guided fishing trip, ask the captain whether the license is included. Many charter operations include the nonresident saltwater license in their package, so you do not need to buy one separately. Get this in writing or confirmed in your booking confirmation before you pay.

If the charter does not include it, you still need to purchase your own license before boarding. Some charters can sell you one on the spot, but it is safer to buy online beforehand so there is no delay on the morning of your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license if I am fishing from a pier or jetty?

Yes. Any saltwater fishing in Louisiana requires a nonresident license, whether you are wading, fishing from shore, a pier, a boat, or a jetty. The only exception is if you are on a licensed charter boat where the captain holds the license for all passengers.

Can I fish freshwater with my saltwater license?

No. The saltwater license covers only salt waters — the Gulf and coastal bays. If you want to fish rivers, lakes, or ponds, you need a separate nonresident freshwater license. Some retailers sell a combination license that covers both.

What happens if I lose my license while I am fishing?

Contact the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to report it. If you bought online, you can print a second copy from your email or your account on the website. If you bought a physical license, you may need to purchase a replacement, though the department can sometimes issue a duplicate.

Can I buy a license for someone else?

No. Each person fishing must have their own license in their name. You cannot buy one license and share it among multiple people. If you are bringing family or friends, each person needs their own nonresident saltwater license.

Do I need a license if I am just watching someone else fish?

No. You only need a license if you are actively fishing — holding a rod, casting, or retrieving. Watching from the boat or shore does not require one.