The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) had a busy opening weekend for the 2025-26 dove hunting season, citing 32 individuals for a variety of violations. The infractions ranged from hunting over baited areas to possession of a stolen firearm.
According to a report from LDWF, enforcement agents conducted operations across multiple parishes from September 6-7, seizing 219 doves which were then donated to local charities. Among the cited was Darren Wade Jr., 20, of Baton Rouge, who was also implicated for intentional concealment of wildlife, facing fines and potential jail time.
Non-resident hunters were not exempt from violations. In Madison Parish, agents identified Laken Herring, 27, and two others from Vicksburg, Miss., for hunting without proper licenses. LWDF's effort to enforce regulations comes amidst concerns for preserving migratory bird populations and maintaining fair chase principles.
One severe charge involved Chris Lacombe, 36, of Marksville, who was arrested for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, among other charges. Lacombe could face substantial fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 and 10 to 20 years of jail. His case, along with all migratory game bird baiting cases, will be processed in Federal Court, as detailed by LDWF officials.
The agency's crackdown underscores its commitment to upholding hunting laws and protecting wildlife. Fines for violations varied, with hunting over the limit of doves and with an unplugged gun carrying a potential fine of $400 to $950 and up to 120 days in jail for each offense. For hunting without non-resident licenses, and for violating non-toxic shot requirements on a Wildlife Management Area, offenders could be fined up to $350.
