We’ve got most things covered In preparation for your Home Run Charters inshore or offshore fishing trip, but in preparation for your trip there are a few things you’ll need to do from making sure you have the right clothing/gear, food and drinks for the fishing charter, and most importantly a Louisiana fishing license. This is a three-day non-resident Charter Fishing License and an Offshore Landing Permit sold by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. No worries though. It’s super easy, and we’ll give you all the information you need to know.
What is a Charter Fishing License?
A three-day non-resident Charter Fishing License allows you to fish from a charter vessel in saltwater areas of the state, WITH a licensed guide on board at all times. This license is in lieu of basic and saltwater fishing licenses* and is valid for three consecutive days. You must provide the charter guide’s license number or mothership license when you purchase a Charter Fishing License in Louisiana. The cost is $10 – a bargain compared to the combined cost of $90 for a basic and saltwater non-resident fee!
*Resident and non-resident recreational fishermen age 16 or older must have a basic fishing license to use the following gear or possess fish which have been caught for recreational purposes in Louisiana waters: bow and arrow, barbed or barbless spear, frog gig/catcher, scuba gear, hook and line, cast net, rod and reel.
How Do I Obtain a License?
There are several easy ways to purchase this license – over the phone by calling the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at (888) 765-2602 or online. Be aware that there will be a small handling fee for phone and online payment options. Depending on your ordering method, here are some important things to note about Louisiana fishing licenses:
- When purchased over the phone, you will receive an authorization number for immediate use of your license as well as a physical copy of your license that will be mailed to your home.
- When you purchase your license online, you will NOT be mailed a physical copy of your license. Instead, you will be emailed a license in PDF format which can be printed and/or saved to your mobile device.
- If a license is purchased from your mobile device, you will receive a text with a temporary authorization number, as well as an email with a PDF form of your license.
Now What About that Offshore Landing Permit?
New regulation changes require that all anglers and charter captains possessing tunas, billfishes, swordfish, amberjacks, groupers, and snappers first obtain a Recreational Offshore Landing Permit which can be obtained by clicking here. This permit is free of charge to both residents and non-residents and is not required for minors under the age of 16. Please note, a Charter Passenger License must be purchased prior to obtaining the Offshore Landing Permit.
Now that you’ve got the boring paperwork part figured out, it’s time to fish! For more information on any of our exciting inshore or offshore fishing trips or to check availability, please call Home Run Charters at (504) 909-TUNA. Book your charter today!
