Louisiana’s coastal waters provide some of the most productive natural habitats in the world, creating an environment that nurtures dozens of abundant finfish species from speckled trout and redfish to croaker and sheepshead.
These fisheries resources provide tremendous opportunities for fishing, both recreational and commercial.
To ensure fishing and other factors are not negatively impacting these species, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries biologists regularly sample coastal finish populations collecting biological data on fish as well as data on water and other environmental conditions. LDWF monitors commercial harvests through a trip ticket program and the recreational fishery through LA Creel, interviewing recreational fishermen about their catch over the phone and email or in-person at the dock. LDWF also samples at docks and fish houses to gather additional information on the ages and sizes of fish harvested in both commercial and recreational fisheries. LDWF uses all of this information to assess the status of finfish populations.
Based on these assessments, managers can implement a variety of measures, such as size and harvest limits, to promote wise utiliziation and conserve Louisiana’s finish populations for future generations.
For regulations information, click HERE.
Additional information available here.
