Louisiana regulators propose new spotted seatrout limits in response to overfishing

The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission (LWFC) have announced a proposal that would reduce the catch of spotted seatrout, in an effort to reverse a decline in the species and reduce overharvesting.

Image credit: Florida Fish and Wildlife on Flickr
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Spotted seatrout, also known as speckled trout, is a popular recreational species in the Gulf of Mexico, and is both overfished and experiencing overfishing. The LWFC's proposal would address this by reducing recreational fishing in two ways: by increasing the minimum size requirements for keeping trout, and reducing the number of trout that can be caught in one trip.

The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission (LWFC) adopted a Notice of Intent (NOI) to increase the minimum size limit of spotted seatrout to 13.5 inches total length from the current 12 inches minimum total length and to decrease the current 25 fish daily bag limit to 15 fish daily bag limit. Modifications in this rule create one statewide size and bag limit, removing the separate regulations in coastal western Louisiana.

At the October 2022 LWFC meeting, LDWF staff presented data indicating that spotted seatrout were continuing to be overfished and undergoing overfishing. Management options and recent survey results regarding public opinions toward those options were presented to the LWFC as well.

During the last 2.5 years, LDWF has held eight public meetings across the state, issued multiple surveys to the public, and collected hundreds of public comments on this topic via email. 'I really appreciate the effort of our anglers for taking the time to provide valuable input during our meetings and surveys,' says LDWF Secretary Jack Montoucet. 'While the process was lengthy, it allowed ample time for our anglers to voice their opinions on potential management options and allowed the Commission to gather the relevant biological facts to make the difficult, but necessary decision about one of our most popular recreational species.'

The Commission's adoption of a Notice of Intent (NOI) is the first of many steps in promulgating a final Rule, which can take between 90 days and one year. Once adopted, the NOI will be published in the State Register and begin the public comment period. The Commission will consider all public comments received and may make any changes they deem necessary or appropriate. Absent any amendments to the NOI by the Commission, the proposed Rule will be sent to the Legislative Oversight Committee for their review. Upon expiration of the 30-day oversight period, or upon a favorable review by the Oversight Committee, the Rule can be published as final in the State Register.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana's abundant natural resources. LDWF receives no state general funding and depends on license sales as a major funding source. 

For more information visit the website, HERE. 

The Aquaculturists

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