Louisiana Increases Red Snapper Bag Limit to Five Fish for Memorial Day Weekend

LOUISIANA - If you plan to do some red snapper fishing this Memorial Day weekend, we've got some good news for you -- the limit has increased.

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Now, this is just temporary. But according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries, thanks to state management efforts focused on expanding recreational opportunity and Governor Jeff Landry's push to prioritize recreational access, anglers will have a chance to reel in more red snapper this weekend.

Temporary Red Snapper Bag Limit Increase for Memorial Day Weekend

Bag limits have increased to five fish per person per day, effective Friday, May 22, through Monday, May 25 only. This is a temporary increase from the standard four fish per person per day.

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Do keep in mind that the size limit remains. Any red snapper you keep must be at least 16 inches in minimum total length.

Season Dates for Louisiana Red Snapper

Red snapper season just opened on May 1 in Louisiana and will close on November 16, 2026.

What Licenses and Permits Do You Need to Fish Red Snapper in Louisiana?

To fish for red snapper in Louisiana, all resident and nonresident anglers aged 18 and older must possess the following:

• Basic Fishing License: Required for all recreational fishing in Louisiana.
• Saltwater Fishing License: Required in addition to the basic license to fish in saltwater areas.
• Recreational Offshore Landing Permit (ROLP): This permit is free of charge but required to possess red snapper and other offshore species (like grouper, amberjack, and tuna) in Louisiana waters. You can register for or download yours via the Louisiana ROLP Portal.