Fishing is a beloved pastime in Louisiana, and the state offers a variety of licenses to accommodate anglers of all ages and skill levels. If you’re a senior citizen looking to enjoy the thrill of fishing in Louisiana’s abundant waters, you may be wondering about the cost of a senior fishing license. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of senior fishing licenses available in Louisiana for 2024, their associated fees, and the requirements to obtain them.
Senior Fishing License Types and Costs
Louisiana offers several options for senior fishing licenses, each with its own set of benefits and costs. Here’s a breakdown of the available licenses and their fees for 2024:
License Type Resident Fee
Senior Hunting/Fishing $5.00
Lifetime Resident Senior Hunting/Fishing (65 or older) $100.00
The Senior Hunting/Fishing license is available to Louisiana residents who are 60 years of age or older. This license provides access to both freshwater and saltwater fishing, as well as hunting privileges, at a discounted rate of $5.00 for the year.
For seniors who plan to fish and hunt regularly, the Lifetime Resident Senior Hunting/Fishing license may be a more cost-effective option. This license is available to Louisiana residents who are 65 years of age or older and costs $100.00 for a lifetime of fishing and hunting privileges.
Eligibility and Requirements
To be eligible for a senior fishing license in Louisiana, you must meet the following criteria:
Be a Louisiana resident
Meet the age requirement for the specific license (60 years old for the Senior Hunting/Fishing license, 65 years old for the Lifetime Resident Senior Hunting/Fishing license)
Provide proof of residency and age when purchasing the license
Acceptable forms of proof of residency include a Louisiana driver’s license, Louisiana ID card, Louisiana voter’s registration card, Louisiana vehicle registration, or two previous year’s state tax filings stamped by the Department of Revenue and Taxation. Proof of age can be provided in the form of a birth certificate or driver’s license.
Where to Purchase a Senior Fishing License
Senior fishing licenses can be purchased through various channels in Louisiana, including:
Online through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website
At authorized retailers, such as sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and department stores
By calling the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at 225-765-2887
By mail by downloading and submitting the appropriate application form
When purchasing a license online or by phone, you’ll receive an electronic copy that can be saved and printed. For in-person purchases, you’ll receive a physical license that must be carried with you while fishing.
Additional Considerations
While senior fishing licenses provide a cost-effective way for Louisiana residents to enjoy fishing, there are a few additional factors to keep in mind:
The Senior Hunting/Fishing license is valid for one year from the date of purchase, while the Lifetime Resident Senior Hunting/Fishing license is valid for the lifetime of the license holder.
Senior fishing licenses do not include permits for certain gear types, such as trawls or crab traps. Additional permits may be required for these activities.
Seniors who plan to fish in Louisiana’s Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) will need to purchase a WMA Access Annual Permit for $20.00 per year, in addition to their fishing license.
By understanding the different senior fishing license options available in Louisiana for 2024, their associated costs, and the requirements to obtain them, seniors can make an informed decision about the best license for their fishing needs and budget.