Explore The Bayou With Guided Gator Hunting In Louisiana

By Ruthie Calderon


Hunters who are looking for a unique and exciting challenge can consider going after the largest reptile in North America. The American alligator is a fierce predator that will test the endurance and strength of even the most experienced outdoorsman. As home to the densest population of alligators in the country, Louisiana offers the best chances for hunters to bring home a trophy animal. With guided gator hunting in Louisiana, anyone can improve his or her odds of having a successful hunt.

Alligator hunting season in Louisiana lasts for 30 days with opening day determined by whether the animals live in the western or eastern zone. The season usually opens sometime in late August or early September, but the date varies slightly from season to season. The law requires hunters to harvest alligators after sunrise and before sunset with no harvesting allowed after nightfall.

All hunters, whether or not they live in Louisiana, must hunt with an officially licensed alligator guides. All guides must own or lease designated wetland habitat to be eligible to apply for a license. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries issues tags to the guide when the habitat is in a condition that can sustain a harvest. Hunters must pay for a license. Those individuals born after August 31, 1969 must participate in a hunter education course.

Hunters often use the hook and line method of hunting to catch the gator while searching for food. They bait large hooks with beef and chicken to lure the animal to the desired location. Once the alligator is on the hook, the hunter dispatches it with a bow and arrow or gun. It is against regulations to kill an alligator with a shotgun.

Hunters must tag the animal immediately after dispatching it. Tags lock onto the gator's hide and must be positioned about 6 inches from the tip of the tail on its underside. Many hunters sell their gators to licensed commercial dealers. The tags must stay on the gator until the buyer tans it and uses it to make a product.

Many guided hunts are organized from a lodge near the hunting grounds. Some offer rustic accommodations while others are more like luxurious vacation resorts with all the usual amenities. Packages include a wide range of extras, including meals, alcoholic beverages, additional outdoor activities, and more. Many lodges have game rooms, media rooms, screened in porches, and other common areas where hunters can relax and socialize.

In most cases, the lodge cannot guarantee the hunter will harvest an animal during the trip. Hunters who do harvest an alligator will have to pay a trophy fee based on its length. The fee may go toward preparing the hide and parts for taxidermy and tanning but some lodges charge extra for these services. The hunter is also free to take meat from the animal.

Hunters can find an alligator hunt package to suit any budget size. Veteran and beginner hunters alike will enjoy the challenge presented by this unique activity. With the help of an expert guide, every hunter has a chance to bag this Bayou beast.




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