Senate Bill 244 of the 2026 Louisiana Legislative Session has been enacted as Act No. 37. Effective May 5, 2026, it codifies legal recreational alligator hunting.
Previously, the taking of Louisiana's most famous reptile was restricted to commercial activities. However, La. R.S. 56:256 now authorizes the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission to establish a recreational alligator hunting season. This adds another exciting game species to Louisiana's abundant wildlife resources and further strengthens the state's reputation as the "Sportsman's Paradise."
Recreational alligator hunters will be required to meet several licensing requirements that are similar to those already familiar to Louisiana hunters. Before they can legally harvest an alligator, hunters must possess a valid basic
A companion measure, House Bill 767, was enacted as Act No. 33 and became effective on the same date. The act establishes the process for allocating recreational harvest tags. Like many states that manage unique and highly sought-after game species, Louisiana will utilize a lottery system to ensure equitable distribution of tags between resident and nonresident hunters.
Applicants will be required to pay a $50.00 nonrefundable lottery entry fee. However, successful applicants may receive their harvest tags at no additional cost. The fee supports Louisiana's Conservation Fund, helping to ensure that current and future generations of sportsmen can continue to enjoy alligator hunting opportunities for years to come.
Annual alligator hunting license fees have been set at $25.00 for residents and $150.00 for nonresidents, reflecting Louisiana's commitment to providing affordable access for its resident hunters.
Hunters should watch for future announcements from the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries regarding residency requirements, approved methods of harvest, season dates, and legal hunting hours.
By: Lucas Bernard