Louisiana First Recreational
Alligator Hunting Season

Hunter Nation Celebrates Passage of Senator Allain’s SB244 allowing for Recreational Alligator Hunting Season

Louisiana Senator Robert L. Allain III

Louisiana Senator Robert L. Allain III

BATON ROUGE, LA., May 1, 2026, -- Addressing the significant challenge of managing Louisiana's growing alligator population, which now exceeds 3 million, Hunter Nation celebrates the unanimous passage of Louisiana State Senate Bill 244. This legislation provides for the state's first recreational alligator hunting season, a crucial step in effective alligator population management

The bill, championed by State Senator Robert Allain, has successfully cleared both the State Senate and House with unanimous votes and has been sent to the Governor for signature. Hunter Nation Louisiana gratefully acknowledges Senator Allain's leadership and collaboration in bringing this vital bill to fruition.

"We are absolutely thrilled to celebrate the unanimous passage of Louisiana State Senate Bill 244, marking a great step forward for responsible wildlife management and recreational hunting in our state," said Rock Bordelon, Chairman of Hunter Nation. "This achievement is a testament to the leadership of Senator Robert Allain, and we at Hunter Nation are grateful for his dedication to seeing this legislation passed."

Advancing Responsible Wildlife Management

The impetus for Louisiana Senate Bill 244 stems from a recognized need to manage the state's abundant alligator population. Senator Allain highlighted this concern during the bill's presentation, stating, "We have a population problem with over 3 million alligators today. If you drive down Highway 70 you can see how many dead alligators are on the side of the road." This legislation offers a new avenue for citizens to participate in ecological stewardship.

Key Provisions of the New Recreational Season

The approved bill outlines a structured approach to recreational alligator hunting:

  • Season Establishment: It authorizes the Wildlife Commission to establish the final regulations for the state's first recreational season.
  • Hunter Selection: A lottery system will select 5,000 recreational hunters annually.
  • Harvest Limit: Each selected hunter will be permitted a two-gator limit.
  • Hunting Method: Recreational hunters will be limited to hook and line harvesting from land, distinguishing their methods from commercial operations.

 This initiative provides a controlled mechanism to address the growing alligator population while offering a new recreational opportunity for Louisiana residents. Hunter Nation remains committed to supporting legislation that promotes sustainable wildlife management and preserves the state's natural resources for future generations.

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About Hunter Nation:
Hunter Nation is a national non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting America’s hunting heritage, constitutional rights, and the values of God, Family, and Country. Through advocacy, education, and grassroots mobilization, Hunter Nation unifies the voices of hunters to defend traditions and ensure the hunting lifestyle thrives for future generations.

Media Contacts:

Sheila Musso
Louisiana State Director, Hunter Nation
[email protected]

Keith Mark
Founder/CEO, Hunter Nation
[email protected]

Kristi Brown
Public Affairs, Hunter Nation
[email protected]
901.848.4560

4 Comments

  1. Clay miller on May 3, 2026 at 7:51 pm

    How do I apply for tag?

  2. Chasity Morris on May 4, 2026 at 7:58 am

    I would like to join in on the hunt. Please send info on requirements. Thanks

  3. Scott Sylvester on May 4, 2026 at 8:11 am

    This is a good idea

  4. Scott Sylvester on May 4, 2026 at 8:13 am

    Yes this shows our younger generation how to be responsible and have fun and understand wildlife

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