Louisiana, known as the “sportsman’s paradise,” earns a widely regarded reputation from its diverse land types and wildlife. Coastal marshes, bayous, swamps and forests are a haven for game animals, fish and nearly limitless adventure for anyone who enjoys time outdoors.
Louisiana also has the reputation of being "heaven on earth" for duck hunters. From November through January, hunting opportunities are available for waterfowl such as teal, gadwall, northern shoveler, mallard, pintail, redhead ducks and geese. The state offers many managed areas thatprovide conditions ideal for hunting the Mississippi flyway to the fullest.
In addition to unbelievable wing shooting, the state’s access to water leads to amazing shrimping and crabbing. The smells of a good ole Louisiana shrimp boil are sure to keep you on the water time and again. It is not hard to see why seafood has become such a part of the state’s cajun and creole cooking cultures.
With morning mists slowly disappearing and the feel of a warm breeze against your skin, you can't help but throw lines in the water of Louisiana's 3 million acres of bayou. With the scent of water celery in the air, pushing through wiregrass, you emerge into a cove and cast for trophy bass. The sun shines bright in "bass nation" making lures irresistible. The largemouth are big here, frequently weighing in between 7 to 10 pounds, and sometimes even more. The state offers plenty of freshwater and saltwater sport, with panfish, tarpon, speckled trout, catfish, flounder and many more.
Piney upland hills and lowland hardwood forests teeming with bald cypress, swamp white oaks and shortleaf pines create habitat for Louisiana's major big game attraction. And this includes some of the best southern deer hunting imaginable. Places like the Kisatchie National Forest comprise 600,000 acres, and provide plenty of space for hunters.
Louisiana is known as a natural producer of giant whitetails. Well-managed habitat, great temperatures and plenty of nutrient-rich food are just a few components that lead to impressive health in these animals. Find the best vantage point with a clear view along a hardwood ridge, waterway, marsh and more to enjoy the pursuit of that big buck.
The Kisatchie National Forest is also a great example of the camping and backpacking opportunities Louisiana has to offer. Trails like the Sugar Cane Trail and Backbone Trail get you deep into these southern woods, and they'll lead you along beautiful lakes, bringing solitude to those who wander far enough into Louisiana’s heartland.
Whether you’re awaiting the final approach in your favorite duck hole, chasing big whitetails on a hardwood ridge, hunting gators in the swamps or fan boating for hogs, the state truly is a “sportsman's paradise,” waiting to be explored and discovered by whatever means suits your outdoor passions.
