LA Boating Guide

All motorized watercraft operated on Louisiana waters must be properly registered. For registration requirements and procedures, contact the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries or the local parish office.

If you were born after January 1, 1984, you may operate a motorboat over 10 horsepower or personal watercraft if you have successfully completed an approved boater education course, or if you are accompanied by someone over age 18 who has completed an LDWF-approved boater education course. This exception does not apply to personal watercraft. Individuals must have their certificate of completion in their possession while on the motorboat or personal watercraft. US Coast Guard licensed captains are exempt from this requirement.

All vessels must carry required safety equipment meeting US Coast Guard and Louisiana state requirements. Equipment varies by vessel type and length.

It is illegal for a person who owns or is in charge of any watercraft to authorize or permit anyone whose physical or mental disability makes them incapable of safe operation to operate that watercraft. Do not operate any watercraft in a manner that unreasonably or unnecessarily interferes with other watercraft or free navigation. Do not load watercraft beyond safe capacity considering weather and operating conditions. Do not operate in areas marked as swimming, bathing, or restricted areas. At least two competent individuals must be operating a motorboat towing waterskis or similar devices.

Primary boating waters include the Gulf of Mexico, Lake Pontchartrain, Lake Maurepas, Toledo Bend Reservoir, the Atchafalaya Basin, the Mississippi River, the Red River, Grand Lake, and the numerous bayous and coastal marshes throughout southern Louisiana.

Boaters should clean, drain, and dry their vessels to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species in Louisiana waters.