Join the Thrill of Louisiana's 2025-26 Primitive Firearms Season for Deer

Kick Off the Louisiana 2025-26 Primitive Firearms Season for Deer

The time has arrived again for the beloved tradition of deer hunting in Louisiana! Starting this Saturday, November 8, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is launching its primitive firearms season for deer in various designated areas. These include Deer Areas 1, 4, 5, 6, and 9, with the modern firearms season kicking off the following week on November 15. It’s an exciting period for hunters of all ages!

Tag it Right: Know Your Deer Regulations

However, before you rush out to the woods, it’s important to get familiar with the deer tagging regulations to ensure a successful and legal hunt. LDWF reminds all hunters to check their deer tags prior to heading out. Remember, while hunting licenses are valid for an entire year, deer tags are only applicable for the 2025-26 season that they belong to. Only those tags issued for this season can be used, so double-check before leaving!

Be Prepared: What You Must Have

To comply with Louisiana's hunting regulations, every deer hunter must possess a basic hunting license and a valid deer license. Youth under the age of 17 also require a special youth hunting license and corresponding deer tags. Additionally, it’s essential that hunters obtain and carry deer tags while hunting. Once a deer is harvested, tagging it is a must! Make sure to tag your deer immediately and record the necessary information, as validation of your tag must occur within 72 hours after harvest.

Explore Wildlife Management Areas

For those interested in deer hunting opportunities, many Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) within the state offer chances to pursue deer during this season. The diversity of WMAs means that hunting experiences can vary. In west Louisiana, hunters can expect great early season encounters, while in late-season, the bottomland hardwood WMAs near the Mississippi and Atchafalaya Rivers provide unique opportunities. To find the list of WMAs open to deer hunting, be sure to check out LDWF's official site.

WMA Access Permits: What You Need to Know

Visiting an LDWF WMA? Don't forget that all attendees must have an access permit or provide proof of ownership of a Senior Hunting/Fishing License, Recreational Fishing License, or Lifetime Hunting/Fishing License to enter these areas. For more details on required permits and access options, consult the LDWF’s official webpage.

Connect with the Outdoors Community

Hunting is about more than just the harvest; it’s about community, tradition, and the great outdoors. Louisiana hunters love to come together for camaraderie and share their exciting experiences spanning generations. Whether you are a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, the thrill and connection you feel in the forests and fields contribute to community ties and the preservation of outdoor traditions.

As you gear up for what promises to be another fantastic season, use this information to enhance your deer hunting experience in Louisiana. Embrace the adventure, cherish the memories made in the wild, and enjoy everything that mother nature offers.

If you're eager to participate in conservation efforts while enjoying the outdoors, consider the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation's Conservation Raffle, which supports vital conservation programs. By taking part, you're helping to maintain the natural beauty and wildlife of our beloved state.