Explore Louisiana Outdoors
Find your next Louisiana adventure, from freshwater fishing and coastal boating to camping and beach days.
Fishing in Louisiana
From freshwater lakes and rivers to coastal waters, Louisiana offers many ways to fish. Check the license and current rules for where you plan to go, then choose gear suited to the water and the fish you hope to catch.
Anglers 18 and older generally need a Louisiana Basic Fishing License.
Anglers 18 and older generally need both Basic and Saltwater Fishing Licenses.
A Basic or Saltwater Fishing License is generally not required.
Check for special permits, exceptions, and rules that apply to your trip.
Louisiana offers freshwater fishing inland and coastal fishing near the Gulf. Here are a few starting points for choosing what to catch and where to look.
Freshwater
Waters: Lakes, rivers, bayous, reservoirs, and ponds.
Common catches: Largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, and catfish.
Coastal waters
Waters: Marshes, estuaries, and accessible shorelines.
Common catches: Red drum, spotted seatrout, and flounder.
Find your spot: Check access, conditions, and the rules for the specific water before heading out.
Explore LDWF fishing locations →Your setup depends on the fish, water, and conditions. These are useful starting points for planning a Louisiana fishing day.
Start simple
Bring a rod and reel suited to your target fish, a small tackle box, spare line, hooks, and a way to remove hooks safely.
Match your bait
For freshwater, consider basic bait rigs or a few versatile artificial lures. Ask locally what is working for the species and season.
Pack for the day
Add drinking water, sun protection, insect repellent, and a rain layer. Check the weather before leaving.
Want to learn hands on? LDWF offers fishing workshops covering gear, rigging, and basic skills.
Explore LDWF fishing workshops →A little preparation makes a fishing day easier. Check conditions before you leave, bring the essentials, and let someone know your plans.
Check the forecast before heading out. If you hear thunder, leave the water and seek safe shelter.
If fishing from a boat or kayak, wear a properly fitted life jacket and tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
Bring drinking water, sun protection, insect repellent, a charged phone, and a small first aid kit.
Safety gear to consider
Choose equipment that fits the person and the activity.
Adult life jacket
Check the size, fit, and intended use before choosing a life jacket for your trip.
View Stearns life jacket on Amazon →Waterproof first aid kit
Keep basic supplies together and protected from splashes during a day on the water.
View RHINO RESCUE kit on Amazon →Waterproof phone pouch
Keep your phone protected from splashes and easy to reach during your trip.
View two-pack phone pouches on Amazon →Affiliate links: we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Use these Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries resources to plan your trip and confirm the rules for your location and catch.
Rules, access, and seasons can change. Confirm details with LDWF before your trip.
Fishing Day Checklist ↓ Open a printable checklist for rules, gear, trip planning, and notes.Boating in Louisiana
From quiet bayous to open coastal waters, Louisiana offers many ways to get out on the water. Start with the conditions, choose a route that fits your experience, and check current boating guidance before you leave.
Before you launch
Check Conditions
Review the weather, wind, and water conditions before you leave. Change your plans if conditions are beyond your experience.
Prepare your boat
Check your life jackets, fuel or battery, and essential equipment before launching.
Share your plan
Tell someone where you plan to go and when you expect to return.
Find a Louisiana boat launch
Map locations come from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries boat launch directory. Listings, access, amenities, and operating status can change. Contact the launch operator before you travel, and use the official operator link in any featured launch card for current details.
Choose a launch by the water you want to explore
Prien Lake · Southwest Louisiana
Show water and launch details
Water & activities:
Brackish coastal water · Boating, kayaking, and fishing. Redfish, speckled trout, flounder, croaker, and black drum are among fish reported near this launch; catches depend on conditions.
Calcasieu Parish lists boat and kayak launches with direct access to Prien Lake. The park also has open space for a picnic before or after your trip. Check current launch access with the parish before traveling.
Poverty Point Reservoir State Park
Show water and launch details
Water & activities:
Freshwater reservoir · Boating, pier fishing, and fishing for largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, or channel catfish.
Launch from the North Marina Complex to explore Poverty Point Reservoir. This inland launch is an option for a freshwater trip. Check current launch access with Louisiana State Parks before traveling.
Lake Pontchartrain · North Shore
Show water and launch details
Water & activities:
Lake Pontchartrain’s north shore · Brackish water with changing salinity. Boat access and a separate concrete dock for smaller craft.
The Mandeville Boat Launch provides access to Lake Pontchartrain from Jackson Avenue. The City of Mandeville lists three launch slips for boats under 40 feet. Confirm current access with the city before traveling.
Lake Pontchartrain · South Shore
Show water and launch details
Water & activities:
Lake Pontchartrain’s south shore · Brackish water with changing salinity. Boating, pier fishing, and lakefront walks.
Launch onto Lake Pontchartrain from the Metairie lakefront. Jefferson Parish lists four back-down ramps, a fishing pier, shelters, a walking trail, a dog park, and a playground at Bonnabel. Check current access with the parish before you go.
Official Louisiana Resources
Check the agency site before your trip, since requirements and conditions can change.
Boating safety and registration — Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
Find Louisiana state parks — Louisiana State Parks.
Explore Louisiana State Parks
Browse a few Louisiana state parks to get started, then visit each park’s official page for current facilities, access, and reservations.
Bogue Chitto State Park — Franklinton
Freshwater fishing, canoeing or kayaking on the river, and camping options make this a useful starting point for several outdoor activities.
View official park details →
Cypremort Point State Park — Cypremort Point
A beach on Vermilion Bay, shore fishing, crabbing, and boating make this a coastal option to explore.
View official park details →
Fontainebleau State Park — Mandeville
Set beside Lake Pontchartrain, this park offers a beach, fishing, and camping for a Northshore trip.
View official park details →
Useful Gear for Louisiana Adventures.
A few practical essentials can make a day outdoors in Louisiana more comfortable. Start with gear that fits your activity, the weather, and where you’re going.
Sun Protection
Pack sunscreen, a brimmed hat, and sunglasses for long days on the water or trail.
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Water & Hydration
Bring more drinking water than you expect to need, especially during Louisiana’s hot and humid months.
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Insect Protection
Pack insect repellent and consider lightweight long sleeves for evenings near water or wooded areas.
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Rain Ready
Keep a lightweight rain jacket or poncho handy when the forecast calls for afternoon showers.
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Plan your Louisiana adventure.
Explore Louisiana’s outdoor activities, state parks, and official resources as you plan your next trip.