Spearfishing

Louisiana Spearfishing
Regulations 2026

Allowed species, endorsement requirements, and freshwater vs. saltwater rules for spearfishing in Louisiana. Louisiana allows spearfishing in both saltwater and some freshwater environments with a valid fishing license. Coastal spearfishing is popular in the Gulf of Mexico.

Saltwater Allowed Freshwater Allowed

2026 Spearfishing Quick Facts Verified 2026

Resident Fee

$15.00

Fishing license covers spearfishing; saltwater license required for marine waters.

Non-Resident Fee

$60.00

Annual license

Saltwater

Allowed

With restrictions

Freshwater

Allowed

Game fish may be banned

Species Regulations

Allowed & Prohibited Species in Louisiana

Allowed Species

Flounder, cobia, amberjack, non-game fish in fresh water

Prohibited Species

Red snapper (federal limits); bass and game fish in freshwater

Step-by-Step

How to Get a Spearfishing License in Louisiana

Purchase a Fishing License

All spearfishing in Louisiana requires a valid fishing license as the base credential. Purchase through Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife & Fisheries online, at license agents, or by phone. Spearfishing license fee: $15.00.

Know the Rules

Review the specific allowed and prohibited species for the waters you intend to spearfish. Saltwater spearfishing is permitted with appropriate licensing. Check for any marine protected area restrictions at your planned dive site.

Check Location-Specific Rules

Marine protected areas, state parks, and wildlife management areas may have additional restrictions or prohibitions on spearfishing. Always verify the specific rules for your dive location with Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife & Fisheries before entering the water.

Requirements

Louisiana Spearfishing Requirements

Valid Louisiana fishing license required (basic + saltwater endorsement for marine waters).

Important Notes

Louisiana-Specific Regulations

Louisiana allows spearfishing in both freshwater and saltwater with a valid Basic Fishing License; spearguns, pole spears, and Hawaiian slings are all legal gear. In saltwater, spearfishing for red snapper, grouper, and amberjack is subject to Gulf of Mexico federal bag limits, and taking speckled trout or redfish by spear is permitted within standard recreational size and creel limits. Freshwater spearfishing prohibits the take of largemouth and spotted bass by spear, and nighttime spearfishing is permitted with diver-down flag compliance.

Source: Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife & Fisheries (www.wlf.louisiana.gov). Regulations verified 2026. Always confirm current species rules and location restrictions directly with Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife & Fisheries.

Louisiana