Can You Fish in Louisiana with a Mississippi Fishing License in 2024?

As an avid angler, you may be wondering if your Mississippi fishing license is valid in Louisiana waters. The answer depends on the specific location and type of license you hold. In this article, we’ll explore the reciprocal fishing license agreements between Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas, and provide you with the information you need to fish legally in these states.

Reciprocal Fishing License Agreements

Mississippi has reciprocal fishing license agreements with both Louisiana and Arkansas. These agreements allow Mississippi residents to fish in certain boundary waters using their Mississippi fishing license.

According to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP), current Mississippi resident hunting, resident sport fishing, and resident commercial fishing licenses are valid on:

• Mississippi lands and waters that lie west of the main channel of the Mississippi River
• Louisiana lands and waters that lie east of the main channel of the Mississippi River
• Certain state line lakes and streams that lie west of the main channel of the Mississippi River

It’s important to note that these reciprocal agreements only apply to Mississippi residents. Non-residents of Mississippi must purchase a Louisiana fishing license to fish in Louisiana waters, even if they hold a valid license from another state.

Fishing in Louisiana with a Mississippi License

If you are a Mississippi resident, you can use your Mississippi fishing license to fish in certain Louisiana waters. The reciprocal agreement allows you to fish in the Louisiana marsh east of the main channel of the Mississippi River.

However, the agreement does not apply to all Louisiana waters. For example, it does not cover offshore fishing in the Gulf of Mexico or fishing in lakes and streams that are not shared boundary waters.

If you plan to fish in Louisiana waters, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the Louisiana fishing regulations. These regulations may differ from Mississippi’s and include size limits, bag limits, and special catch and release techniques for deep water species.

Fishing License Fees and Requirements

The cost of fishing licenses varies between Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas. In 2024, Mississippi charges a $5.00 fee for a fishing license, while Louisiana’s fees are generally higher.

Louisiana offers a variety of fishing licenses, including:

• Resident fishing license: $9.50
• Non-resident fishing license: $60.00
• Combination hunting and fishing license: $24.50

Arkansas also offers fishing licenses, with fees ranging from $10.00 for a resident fishing license to $50.00 for a non-resident fishing license.

It’s important to note that while Mississippi residents can fish in Louisiana waters using their Mississippi license, they must still purchase a Louisiana fishing license if they plan to fish in Louisiana waters that are not covered by the reciprocal agreement.

Conclusion

The reciprocal fishing license agreements between Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas provide anglers with more opportunities to enjoy their favorite pastime. By understanding the terms of these agreements and familiarizing yourself with the fishing regulations in each state, you can fish legally and responsibly in these waters.

Whether you’re a Mississippi resident looking to explore the Louisiana marsh or an angler from another state planning a fishing trip to the region, it’s essential to do your research and ensure that you have the proper licenses and permits. With a little preparation and a lot of patience, you can enjoy a successful and enjoyable fishing experience in these beautiful and diverse waters.