Louisiana License Price Calculator
How Much Is a Fishing License in Louisiana?
A Louisiana resident annual fishing license costs $17.00. Non-residents pay $60.00 for the same annual license.
Louisiana requires a free Recreational Offshore Landing Permit before anglers can possess prized offshore species like red snapper, grouper, tuna, or amberjack — it costs nothing, but it's mandatory the moment you land one of those species, on top of your basic and saltwater licenses. (Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries)
Louisiana Fishing License Price Table (2026)
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $17.00 | $60.00 | Basic freshwater license |
| 1-Day | N/A | N/A | Short-term option |
| Saltwater Add-On (Res) | $15.00 | N/A | See notes below |
| Youth (Under 16) | Free | Free | Most states exempt young anglers |
Oil and Gas Revenue Helps Keep Prices Low
Louisiana's $17 basic resident license is partly subsidized by oil and gas revenue flowing into the state's Conservation Fund — a structural advantage most states don't have, which is part of why Louisiana consistently ranks among the cheapest states for resident fishing licenses.
Saltwater Is a Separate Add-On, Not Automatically Included
Louisiana's basic $17 license covers freshwater only. Residents need to add a $15 saltwater add-on for coastal and Gulf fishing, or step up to the $100 Sportsman's Paradise bundle, which combines fishing, hunting, and most other outdoor licenses into one package.
Louisiana Fishing Seasons & Bag Limits (2026)
These are Louisiana's default statewide season windows and bag/size limits for the most commonly targeted species. Many individual lakes, rivers, and reservoirs carry their own special regulations that override these defaults — always confirm the rules for your specific water before you fish.
| Species | Season | Min. Size | Daily Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Bass (combined species) | Year-round, statewide default | No statewide min. (Atchafalaya Basin waters 12" as of Aug. 2026) | 10/day (5/day in Atchafalaya Basin waters as of Aug. 2026) |
| Crappie (sac-a-lait) | Year-round, statewide default | No statewide min. (Atchafalaya Basin waters 8" as of Aug. 2026) | 50/day (25/day in Atchafalaya Basin waters as of Aug. 2026; up to 100 in possession at Toledo Bend) |
Where to Buy a Louisiana Fishing License Locally
In addition to the official state portal linked above, Louisiana fishing licenses are typically available at Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, and Dick's Sporting Goods locations statewide, along with independent bait & tackle shops. Call ahead if you need a specific license type (combination, lifetime, or trout stamp) since not every retail counter carries every product.
Louisiana Fishing License — FAQs
How much is a Louisiana fishing license?
A resident basic fishing license costs $17.00. Non-residents pay $60.00 for the basic annual license.
Does the Louisiana basic license cover saltwater fishing?
No. Residents need to add a $15 saltwater add-on. Non-residents pay a separate non-resident saltwater annual fee.
What is the Sportsman's Paradise License?
A $100 resident bundle combining basic fishing, saltwater fishing, hunting, deer, waterfowl, turkey, and WMA access into one package.
How long are Louisiana fishing licenses valid?
365 days from the date of purchase, not a fixed calendar year.
Where can I buy a Louisiana fishing license?
Online at LouisianaOutdoors.com, or displayed digitally through the LA Wallet app.