Monday, June 29, 2015

Learn More About Guided Gator Hunting In Louisiana

By Ruthie Calderon


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 hunting season in Louisiana lasts for 30 days with opening day determined by whether the animals live in the western or eastern zone. The season usually opens sometime in late August or early September, but the date varies slightly from season to season. The law requires hunters to harvest alligators after sunrise and before sunset with no harvesting allowed after nightfall.

Non-resident and resident hunters must apply for hunter's permit. They are only allowed to hunt gators when accompanied by a guide licensed by the state. To be eligible for a license, the guide must rent or own land designated as official wetland habitat. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries monitors the population and issues tags when the habitat can support a harvest. Any hunter born later than August 31 1986 is required by law to attend a hunter education course.

Hunters may harvest alligators by bow and arrow, hook and line, or firearms, with the exception of shotguns. The use of hooks baited with chicken and beef is the most common method of luring the animal to the kill zone. The hunter has the option of dispatching the hooked gator with a firearm or a bow and arrow.

Hunters must tag the animal immediately after dispatching it. Tags lock onto the gator's hide and must be positioned about 6 inches from the tip of the tail on its underside. Many hunters sell their gators to licensed commercial dealers. The tags must stay on the gator until the buyer tans it and uses it to make a product.

Many guides operate lodges near where the hunting takes place. Guests can choose from rustic ranches with cabins or luxurious bed and breakfasts that include cable television, well-stocked wet bars, meals served in a dining room, and more. Some lodges offer screened in porches, media rooms, game rooms, and additional common areas where guests can mingle and talk about their experience.

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.

Hunters can find an alligator hunt package to suit any budget size. Veteran and beginner hunters alike will enjoy the challenge presented by this unique activity. With the help of an expert guide, every hunter has a chance to bag this Bayou beast.




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