Louisiana Alligator Hunting FAQ | SwampBlood Gator Guides

Louisiana Alligator Hunting FAQ

Phones answered daily, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (CT)

Top Questions

Yes. A valid Louisiana alligator hunting license is required (resident or non-resident). Ride-alongs who are not hunting do not need a license.

Purchase & rules: Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries (LDWF).

Minors may hunt per LDWF regulations. Ride-along minors (not hunting) do not need a license.

Our guided hunts run September 3 – October 31 (one booking option per day). All hunts are private.

All hunts are private. 1–4 hunters plus guide. One hunt per day.

Your guide is Forrest White. He will call you 48 hours before your hunt (between 7am–7pm) to confirm your start time, discuss preferences, and invite you to optional pre-baiting the day prior.

  • Hook & line hunts: typically 3–4 hours, usually begin around 7:00 AM (final time set by your guide).
  • Trophy hunts: 1–3 days, depending on how long it takes to locate your gator.

Whether it happens in the first 30 minutes or takes up to 3 days, we don't stop until you land the trophy you came for.

Yes. Children are welcome with a parent or legal guardian. If a child will hunt, they must follow LDWF licensing rules. If they are not hunting, the ride-along fee is $100.

Bring rain gear—showers are common. Unless a guide determines conditions unsafe, hunts proceed as planned. If weather is unsafe, we'll rebook your hunt. If no mutual date is available, you choose: refund or credit.

  • 2025 season: Full amount due at booking (via Shopify).
  • Starting May next year: 10% non-refundable deposit to reserve dates; the balance due per confirmation at booking.
  • 30+ days before hunt: Full refund minus 10% admin fee
  • 14–29 days: 50% refund minus 10% admin fee
  • < 14 days: Non-refundable

Hunt package prices include taxes. Merch adds tax/shipping at checkout. No extra processing fee listed; any mounting/taxidermy fees are not included.

Yes—subject to availability and paid as add-ons (you'll see a scrollable carousel on the Shop page; day-of purchase also supported). Pricing per additional tag:

  • < 9' — $500
  • 9'–10'11" — $750
  • ≥ 11' — $1,000

Your confirmation email includes the meetup location in Henderson, LA and final details from your guide.

We're in South Louisiana—normally hot and humid. Wear weather-appropriate layers, non-slip footwear, sun protection, and use bug spray (we'll have some available). You may bring beverages; we'll provide some as well. Tips are absolutely not required, but always appreciated.

Louisiana alligator hunting season typically runs from early September through early November. The 2025 season opens Wednesday, September 3. Exact dates are set annually by LDWF.

Yes. You'll need a Louisiana hunting license. We provide alligator hunting tags and, as licensed outfitters, handle the other permitting requirements. Our guides are fully certified and insured.

We provide all hunting equipment and safety gear. You should bring: weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, snacks/drinks, camera, and a cooler if you want to take your harvest home. We'll provide a detailed packing list when you book.

We recommend booking 3–6 months in advance, especially for peak season dates. Alligator hunting is extremely popular and prime dates fill quickly. Early booking improves availability for your preferred dates.

Our hunts include: professional guide service, all hunting equipment, boat transportation, and tags. Pricing varies by hunt length and group size. Contact us for detailed pricing and package options.

Absolutely! No prior experience necessary. Forrest White specializes in teaching newcomers the authentic Louisiana hunting traditions. We provide complete instruction on safety, techniques, and swamp navigation. All skill levels welcome.