Louisiana is one of the few states where feral hogs can be hunted year-round. But just because it’s open season on hogs doesn’t mean there are no rules. You still need the right Louisiana hunting license, landowner permission, and in some cases — notification to the sheriff.

With over 700,000 feral hogs wreaking havoc across all 64 parishes, understanding Louisiana’s hunting laws is the first step to joining the fight.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

• When and where you need a license
  
• What license types are available
  
• Special rules for night hunting and public lands
  
• Why hog hunters are switching to the Boar Blanket instead of loud traps or rifles
  

Do You Need a Louisiana Hunting License to Hunt Hogs?

Yes — if you plan to hunt hogs in Louisiana, you need a valid Basic Hunting License, even on private land. That includes both day and night hunting.

The only exception? Landowners themselves may control hogs on their own property, but even then, notification is required for nighttime hunting.

Key rule:

You must notify the parish sheriff before any nighttime hunt begins, or immediately after taking a hog at night.

Types of Louisiana Hunting Licenses

Resident License

Louisiana residents ages 18 to 59 must purchase a Basic Hunting License to hunt feral hogs. This allows for:

• Daylight hunting year-round
  
• Night hunting on private land (with sheriff notification)
  

Non-Resident License

Out-of-state hunters must purchase a Non-Resident Basic Hunting License, and follow all the same rules.

Youth License

Youth under 18 can hunt under a Youth License, which is available at a reduced cost.

Senior and Military Licenses

• Residents 60+ who were born before June 1, 1940, are exempt from license requirements
  
• Discounted rates are available for active-duty military
  

Louisiana Hunting License Rules for Hog Hunting on WMAs

Hunting hogs on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) is more restrictive. Here’s what to know:

• Hogs can only be hunted during open seasons for other game (e.g., deer, squirrel)
  
• Night hunting is prohibited
  
• Special February dog seasons allow for limited hog hunting with dogs
  
• A Basic Hunting License plus a WMA permit is required
  

Popular WMAs with Hog Activity

• Sherburne WMA
  
• Pearl River WMA
  
• Atchafalaya Basin
  
• Bodcau and Clear Creek WMAs
  

Check LDWF’s hog regulations for specific area rules.

Night Hunting and Firearm Rules

On private property, you can hunt hogs at night if:

• You have a valid license
  
• You notify the parish sheriff 24 hours in advance
  
• You use legal firearms (including suppressed weapons)
  
• You follow ATF rules for suppressors (must carry your permit)
  

Illegal: You may not participate in nighttime hunts if you’ve had a wildlife violation in the last 5 years.

Night vision, infrared scopes, and flashlights are all allowed.

Transport and Holding Laws

Illegal Without Registration:

• Transporting live hogs
  
• Holding live hogs in pens or trailers
  

To legally do either, you must be a registered feral swine transporter or holding facility under the Louisiana Department of Agriculture.

Where to Buy a Louisiana Hunting License

You can purchase licenses:

• Online at wlf.louisiana.gov
  
• At licensed retailers (sporting goods stores, bait shops, etc.)
  
• Through the LDWF mobile app
  

Fees vary by type, but most Basic Hunting Licenses are under $20/year for residents.

Why Trapping Beats Shooting in Louisiana

Even though 213,300 hogs were reportedly taken during the 2019-2020 season, that’s still less than half of what’s needed to stabilize the population.

The Boar Blanket gives you:

• Silent, stress-free trapping
  
• No tech required
  
• No night-time hunting logistics
  
• Full sounder capture instead of one hog at a time
  

Explore the Boar Blanket for Louisiana:
https://boarblanket.com/hog-trap-in-louisiana/

Final Thoughts on the Louisiana Hunting License and Hog Hunting

Louisiana’s hog problem is only growing. But the state has opened the door for responsible hunters to help.

Get licensed. Know the WMA rules. Avoid legal trouble. And if trapping is your goal, don’t rely on rigid drop cages. The Boar Blanket gives you year-round, anywhere, anytime hog control — no electricity, no cameras, no triggers.

Whether you’re a property owner or just looking to get in the game, Louisiana makes it easy to start — but you still need to follow the rules.

Ready to trap smarter? Learn how the Boar Blanket works in Louisiana hog country.