Louisiana Hunting Lottery Deadlines: Alligator, Deer and Waterfowl
Louisiana hunters have several lottery opportunities coming up, but deadlines are approaching fast for alligator and deer hunts.
🐊 New recreational alligator lottery
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is accepting applications for its new recreational alligator harvest lottery through Sunday, August 30.
The program is separate from the state’s commercial alligator lottery. Winners can hunt in one of eight designated zones during the October 1-31 recreational season.
To apply, hunters must:
- Be Louisiana residents
- Be at least 16 years old
- Meet applicable hunter education requirements
- Pay a $50 non-refundable fee for each zone
Hunters can apply for multiple zones, but each zone requires a separate fee. Those selected must also purchase a $25 Resident Alligator Sports Hunter License.
Each successful hunter will receive two non-transferable hide tags per awarded zone. Recreational tags cannot be transferred or used on property that already has commercial alligator tags.
🦌 Deer lottery deadline: August 31
The deadline for 2026-27 deer lottery hunts on LDWF Wildlife Management Areas is Monday, August 31.
Youth deer hunts are available on selected WMAs. Applicants generally must be 10 to 17 years old, although children who will turn 10 before their scheduled hunt may also qualify.
Because hunt locations, dates and eligibility can differ, applicants should check the requirements for each individual hunt before applying.
🦆 Waterfowl applications open through September 30
Hunters have a little more time to apply for LDWF's waterfowl lottery hunts, with applications due by September 30.
Both youth and general waterfowl opportunities are available on selected WMAs, including traditionally offered hunts at Sherburne WMA and portions of the South Farm.
Waterfowl lottery applications cost $5 plus a $3.50 transaction fee. Applications are available online only.
Hunters selected for WMA hunts may also need a valid WMA Access Permit or another qualifying hunting or fishing license. Migratory bird hunters must meet additional requirements, including HIP certification, while waterfowl hunters age 16 and older need a federal duck stamp.
Bottom line: With the alligator deadline arriving August 30 and the deer deadline on August 31, eligible hunters should review the requirements and submit their applications before time runs out.
