Marinas in Louisiana

Confirm current requirements with the state agency before your trip. Rules and fees change every season.

• Boater Education Card

  Anyone born after January 1, 1984, who operates a motorized vessel over 10 horsepower must complete a boater education course approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and carry proof of completion. This applies to both residents and non-residents.

  Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries

• Vessel Registration

  All motorized vessels and sailboats over 12 feet in length must be registered with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Registration numbers and validation decals must be properly displayed. Non-residents must register their vessels if staying in Louisiana for more than 90 consecutive days.

• Fishing License

  Individuals 16 years of age or older must possess a valid Louisiana fishing license to fish in the state's waters, whether freshwater or saltwater. Various license types are available, including short-term non-resident options. Verify the specific license needed based on your fishing plans.

• Age Restrictions for Operators

  No person under 16 years of age may operate a personal watercraft. Additionally, an operator born after January 1, 1984, may not run a motorboat over 10 horsepower unless they have completed an approved boating safety course or are accompanied on board by someone over 18 who holds that certification.

• Required Safety Equipment

  Vessels must carry U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for all occupants, a throwable flotation device, a sound-producing device (whistle or horn), visual distress signals (for coastal waters), and navigation lights. Fire extinguishers are required on certain vessels, and specific requirements vary by vessel length and type; verify with the state agency.

1. 01

   Determine Your Boating Focus

   Offshore fishing, slow bayou cruising, lake recreation, or some of each? Settle that first. Your answer points you to the right region and the right kind of marina or charter.

2. 02

   Research Marinas and Charters

   In your chosen region, find marinas with the services you'll actually need: transient slips, fuel, repairs. Going guided? Vet charter companies against the specific fishing or touring you want to do.

3. 03

   Verify Licensing and Regulations

   Confirm every operator aboard meets Louisiana's boater education requirements, the vessel is registered, and the required safety gear is stowed. Fishing licenses are easiest sorted well before the trip.

4. 04

   Monitor Weather and Water Conditions

   Coastal Louisiana weather turns fast. Check marine forecasts, tide charts, and river stages as a habit, not a formality, and during hurricane season, keep a plan B ready for tropical systems.

5. 05

   Plan Your Route and Provisions

   Chart the course with hazards, fuel stops, and pump-out stations marked. For runs into the remoter marsh, stock food, water, and emergency supplies as if help is farther away than it looks, because it is.