The announcer had it somewhat right. Anytime the Louisiana legislature is in session, horrifying things can happen. However, sometimes legislators do the right thing and offer solutions to problems. That's why it's important you know what their bills are, and take action - for or against - to protect our interests.
Nearly two dozen fisheries bills have been filed for the 2026 Louisiana Legislative session. Of course, the one bill getting the most attention among anglers and conservationists is SB186 by Senator Michael "Big Mike" Fesi. It would establish a quota of 315 million pounds on commercial menhaden harvest.
The 315M pound limit is actually far below the quota limit that was suggested by the Fly Fishers International (FFI) Gulf Coast Council (GCC) and American Saltwater Guides Association (ASGA). We fully expect this bill to be amended upward, but it will be heavily lobbied against by the industry regardless of the final number.
Here are the six most critical bills we feel need to followed closely and what action needs to be taken.
SB186 by Senator Michael Fesi.
Limits the total commercial menhaden reduction fishing catch within Louisiana territorial waters to 315 million pounds. SUPPORT.
HB855 by Representative Joseph Orgeron.
Establishes depth requirements for the commercial use of purse seines to a minimum of 22 feet. At this depth and beyond, the bycatch of redfish by menhaden nets begins to decline. SUPPORT.
SB249 by Senator Caleb Kleinpeter.
Constitutional amendment to add two members to the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission, to increase LWFC from 7 members to 9 members. We strongly SUPPORT this bill. Having only 7 members where 3 represent commercial interests grossly unrepresents hunters, anglers and other outdoor interests. It's also one of the smallest commission sizes of any state. SUPPORT.
HB688 by Rep. Joseph Orgeron.
Adds Atlantic tarpon to the definition of saltwater gamefish. Would allow the LA Wildlife and Fisheries Commission to set regulations for this valuable sportfish. SUPPORT.
HCR5 by Rep. Joseph Orgeron.
Amends Department of Wildlife and Fisheries rules regarding red drum harvest to create an exception to the maximum size prohibition. It authorizes the department to issue special permits for bull red harvest for certain limited tournaments. While we understand the Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo and a few others would like to continue the "weigh in" of big reds, we suggest what kayak tournaments do - a measuring board, a photo, and an app. OPPOSE.
SB111 by Senator Caleb Kleinpeter.
Proposes a minimum size limit of 14 inches and daily take limit of 5 for black bass and a minimum size limit of 8 inches and daily take limit of 25 for crappie within the Atchafalaya Basin and surrounding tributaries and distributaries. While we support this, we think these regulations need to be established moreso for the Piney Hills region of Louisiana. SUPPORT.
House Bill (HB) must first be introduced into the House Natural Resources Committee. Approval by the HNCR assures a full vote on the House floor. Likewise, Senate Bills (SB) must be first introduced into the Senate Natural Resources Committee. That's why it's critical to contact the appropriate Committee members first and let them know your position.
Members of the House Natural Resources Committee (HB bills)
https://house.louisiana.gov/H_Cmtes/NaturalResources
Members of the Senate Natural Resources Committee (SB bills)
https://senate.la.gov/Sen_Committees/NaturalResources