Hunters who are looking for a unique and exciting challenge can consider going after the largest reptile in North America. The American alligator is a fierce predator that will test the endurance and strength of even the most experienced outdoorsman. As home to the densest population of alligators in the country, Louisiana offers the best chances for hunters to bring home a trophy animal. With guided gator hunting in Louisiana, anyone can improve his or her odds of having a successful hunt.
Alligator hunts take place annually on privately owned or leased land in designated wetlands during the official hunting season. The season is divided into east and west zones. The season lasts 30 days, and starts the last week in August or the first week in September with the dates varying slightly from year to year. Harvesting is allowed between sunrise and sunset only. Harvesting after dark is prohibited.
State regulations require a licensed alligator guide to accompany all resident and non-resident hunters. Guides must lease or own property that is wetland habitat to qualify for a license. Property owners obtain alligator tags when the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries deems the habitat can sustain a harvest. Each hunter must have a valid sports hunter license and anyone born Sept 1, 1969 or later must complete a hunter education course.
Hunters often use the hook and line method of hunting to catch the gator while searching for food. They bait large hooks with beef and chicken to lure the animal to the desired location. Once the alligator is on the hook, the hunter dispatches it with a bow and arrow or gun. It is against regulations to kill an alligator with a shotgun.
Hunters must tag the animal immediately after harvest. The tag has a locking device and should be attached approximately six inches from the tip of the tail on the underside. Only licensed fur dealers or buyers can purchase alligator hides. Tags may not be removed until the hide is tanned and used to make a product.
Hunters planning an overnight trip can choose from several hunting lodges in the state. Accommodations range from rustic wood cabins to elegant inns with 5-star amenities. Many lodges offer multiple perks to guests, including gourmet meals, televisions, Wi-Fi, wet bars, and much more. Media rooms, screened in porches, and games rooms offer common areas where guests can get to know each other and discuss their hunts.
In most cases, the lodge cannot guarantee the hunter will harvest an animal during the trip. Hunters who do harvest an alligator will have to pay a trophy fee based on its length. The fee may go toward preparing the hide and parts for taxidermy and tanning but some lodges charge extra for these services. The hunter is also free to take meat from the animal.
An alligator hunt is an exciting challenge for even the most veteran hunters. Knowledgeable guides at a reputable lodge have the equipment and experience to teach beginners the basics of hunting this so-called beast of the Bayou. Affordable hunting packages are available to fit any size budget.
Alligator hunts take place annually on privately owned or leased land in designated wetlands during the official hunting season. The season is divided into east and west zones. The season lasts 30 days, and starts the last week in August or the first week in September with the dates varying slightly from year to year. Harvesting is allowed between sunrise and sunset only. Harvesting after dark is prohibited.
State regulations require a licensed alligator guide to accompany all resident and non-resident hunters. Guides must lease or own property that is wetland habitat to qualify for a license. Property owners obtain alligator tags when the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries deems the habitat can sustain a harvest. Each hunter must have a valid sports hunter license and anyone born Sept 1, 1969 or later must complete a hunter education course.
Hunters often use the hook and line method of hunting to catch the gator while searching for food. They bait large hooks with beef and chicken to lure the animal to the desired location. Once the alligator is on the hook, the hunter dispatches it with a bow and arrow or gun. It is against regulations to kill an alligator with a shotgun.
Hunters must tag the animal immediately after harvest. The tag has a locking device and should be attached approximately six inches from the tip of the tail on the underside. Only licensed fur dealers or buyers can purchase alligator hides. Tags may not be removed until the hide is tanned and used to make a product.
Hunters planning an overnight trip can choose from several hunting lodges in the state. Accommodations range from rustic wood cabins to elegant inns with 5-star amenities. Many lodges offer multiple perks to guests, including gourmet meals, televisions, Wi-Fi, wet bars, and much more. Media rooms, screened in porches, and games rooms offer common areas where guests can get to know each other and discuss their hunts.
In most cases, the lodge cannot guarantee the hunter will harvest an animal during the trip. Hunters who do harvest an alligator will have to pay a trophy fee based on its length. The fee may go toward preparing the hide and parts for taxidermy and tanning but some lodges charge extra for these services. The hunter is also free to take meat from the animal.
An alligator hunt is an exciting challenge for even the most veteran hunters. Knowledgeable guides at a reputable lodge have the equipment and experience to teach beginners the basics of hunting this so-called beast of the Bayou. Affordable hunting packages are available to fit any size budget.
No comments:
Post a Comment