Alligator Hunting
Louisiana Alligator
Hunting Tags 2026
Tag requirements, draw system, fees, and season information for alligator hunting in Louisiana. Louisiana has the largest wild alligator population and the most active alligator hunting season in the country. Landowners with sufficient acreage receive harvest quotas; there is also a public ground lottery.
Draw Required
CITES Tag Required
2026 Tag Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Fee
$25.00
CITES tag fee per gator; base hunting license required. Public ground tags via lottery.
Non-Resident Fee
$150.00
Per tag
Draw Required
Yes
Private land: tags assigned based on acreage. Public land: competitive lottery.
Season
East zone: 1st Wedne...
Typical period
Step-by-Step
How to Get an Alligator Hunting Tag in Louisiana
1
Purchase a Louisiana Hunting License
A valid state hunting license is required before applying for or receiving alligator tags. Purchase through Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife & Fisheries.
2
Apply for the Draw
Louisiana requires a draw application for alligator tags.
Private land: tags assigned based on acreage. Public land: competitive lottery. Applications are typically submitted in summer for fall seasons. Check Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife & Fisheries's website for current year application deadlines.
3
Receive Your Tag & CITES Documentation
If selected in the draw, you'll receive your alligator tag(s) for $25.00 (resident) and official CITES documentation tags.
4
Attach CITES Tag at Harvest
Immediately upon harvesting an alligator, attach the CITES documentation tag to the carcass. The tag must remain with the hide and meat through processing and transport. Failure to tag a harvested alligator is a federal violation.
Season Information
2026 Alligator Season in Louisiana
East zone: 1st Wednesday September; West zone: 3rd Wednesday September; season lasts 30 days.
Requirements
Louisiana Alligator Tag Requirements
Louisiana hunting license + alligator hunter/trapper license. Private land requires landowner authorization.
Important Notes
Louisiana-Specific Information
Louisiana's program is one of the world's most successful sustainable wildlife use programs.
Source: Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife & Fisheries (www.wlf.louisiana.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current draw dates and tag availability with Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife & Fisheries.