LDWF

A recreational saltwater bowfishing permit for both the private and charter sectors of the recreational fishery will be required beginning January 1, 2024. The permit is free of charge and will be valid one year from the date issued. The permit can be obtained only online through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ website.

Individuals 18 years of age or older taking, or attempting to take saltwater recreational fish with bowfishing gear in the waters of Louisiana, or engaging in bowfishing activity below the saltwater line will be required to hold this mandatory permit.

Any person on a charter bowfishing trip, who pays a fee for that trip, is not required to have this permit, but the permit is required for the captain of that charter vessel.

In order to effectively manage important saltwater recreational species, LDWF needs to define the universe of anglers harvesting saltwater species or species available in the saltwater areas of the state utilizing bowfishing gear.

The free permit can be received by using this link: https://ldwf.wlf.la.gov/bowp