Bayou fishermen, get ready to set your calendars for December. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is bringing commercial fishing licenses and boat registrations back to the local field offices. This time around, for those out there making their living off the water, there's a chance to skip the trip to Baton Rouge and handle business closer to home. As reported on the LDWF's official website, the agency is offering in-person license sales and assistance at select dates and office locations throughout the month.
For anyone who needs to renew their commercial fishing license or get one for the first time, LDWF is setting up shop in Lake Charles, Lafayette, New Orleans, and Bourg. License transactions are available from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., but do remember that they're closing the shop down for a lunch break from noon to 1 p.m. If you prefer plastic over cash or checks, they got you covered, but there's going to be a 3% charge when using a credit/debit card, so maybe hit the ATM before you go.
The convenience doesn't stop with licenses. Dealers will also have the chance to learn a thing or two about trip tickets. LDWF staff will be on hand to train seafood dealers both new and old on how to fill them out, answer any impending questions, and they're even taking trip ticket orders right on the spot.
Let's not forget the paperwork. When you're heading to one of these field offices, make sure to bring along your license renewal notices. That'll help avoid any annoying delays. The LDWF's announcement lists out everything you need, from proof of residency to business identification. First-time fishers can even apply by mail, if they're all set on the necessary documents that is.
And while the trip ticket process might sound like just another hoop to jump through, it's pretty essential stuff. According to LDWF, this info is classified under state and federal law, used to keep fish populations in check and informed. They've got a whole slew of how-to videos on their site if you're looking to prep ahead of the field office visit.
For detailed information on scheduling, documentation, and payments, commercial license inquiries can be directed to LDWF at (225) 765-2898.
