What You Need To Start Gator Hunting In Louisiana

By Ryan Turner


The chasing and catching of animals has always seemed to fascinate humans. Alligators happen to be the largest known reptiles in North America, with Louisiana gators being the biggest. Gator hunting in Louisiana, is one of the most interesting things you might do in your life. Before going on this expedition there are some things you should know.

For you to be allowed to hunt in this state, you need to have a hunters license. They will also need a proof of ownership, showing that the land can sustain the existence of alligators. If you plan to hunt on your own land, you need to provide maps that show exactly when you land ends, to avoid trespassing. On the other hand, if you do not own your own land, you can hunt in public water ways. You will also require to apply for alligator tags before the season.

Hunting within the state begins and ends at specific times. On the eastern side, it begins on the last Wednesday of August and on the western side, it starts on the first Wednesday of September. This season lasts for thirty days. Having specific times for the hunt, ensures that people do not interfere with the mating, nesting and hatching of these creatures.

The animals spend most of their time in water and are generally quite awkward on land. They generally feed at either dusk or dawn, but may be seen close to the surface on warm days. This means that you can catch them at any time, between sunset and sunrise. Their capturing during the night however, has been banned in this state.

You will need to have the proper equipment, to hunt for these massive creatures. In most cases they are hunted for their meat, their skins or to keep a souvenirs. You can use a hook and line, firearms, but not shotguns, and bow and arrow. This will all do minimal damage to the carcass.

As a hunter you need to be very careful when engaging the animals. They are naturally very aggressive and are also very fast in water. They can also be very large and heavy, in this case if they bite you and pull you into the water they could kill you. You are advised not to swim in gator infested waters or try to feed wild ones. A training course, could also be helpful in giving you more experience.

After the gator has been caught and tagged, it needs to be skinned and processed. The skinning can be a very difficult process and if it done wrong, may end up devaluing the hide. It should therefore be done by somebody with experience.

While in the Louisiana area, you can also hire a company to take you on a guided tour. This will ensure that even if you are not a trained hunter, you get to enjoy the thrill of the tour. This also guarantees your safety, as they know how to handle the creatures, as well as the locations they are mainly found at. While in the city Pierre Park, you can visit the largest alligator park in the state. There you can watch and even get to feed the animals, while taking photos and collecting souvenirs to take home.




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