Louisiana alligator season typically runs during late summer and early fall. Hunts take place in prime alligator habitat throughout South Louisiana, including marshes, swamps, canals, and backwaters near New Orleans in Saint Bernard Louisiana.
Exact locations are selected based on water levels, weather conditions, and gator activity to maximize success.
Why Hunt Alligators with Bayou Bowfishing & Alligator Hunting?
With over 25 years of combined experience, Bayou Bowfishing & Alligator Hunting LLC is a locally owned outfitter based in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana. This isn’t something we picked up recently—this is a way of life that’s been passed down through years of time on the water.
Our guides grew up hunting these bayous, marshes, canals, and backwaters. They understand alligator behavior, movement, and seasonal patterns because they’ve lived it firsthand. From reading water conditions to knowing when and where gators are most active, that local knowledge makes the difference.
When you hunt with us, you’re not booking a generic outfitter experience. You’re hunting with locals who live the bayou lifestyle and take pride in doing things the right way.
BAYOU LODGING AVAILABLE
For guests traveling in or looking for a full Louisiana experience, lodging is available directly on the bayou.
$450 per night
Fully furnished house
Located on the bayou in St. Bernard Parish
Ideal for hunters, families, and groups
Convenient for early morning hunts
Staying on-site allows you to relax before and after your hunt without worrying about long drives or hotel logistics. It’s the perfect option for out-of-town hunters or multi-day trips.
Lodging availability is limited and should be requested at the time of booking.
Alligator Hunting Methods
Alligator hunts are conducted using legal and ethical methods approved by Louisiana wildlife regulations. Depending on conditions and client preference, hunts may include:
Rod and line
Snatch hooks
Harpoons
Bang sticks (used safely and professionally)
What to Expect on Hunt Day
Hunts take place in the morning
Typical hunt duration is approximately 3 to 5 hours
Locations are selected based on gator movement, weather, and water levels
Our guides ensure all methods are used responsibly and within state regulations and manage the entire hunt from start to finish, ensuring a smooth and professional experience.
Alligator Hunting Season
Louisiana alligator season begins the last Wednesday of August and runs through mid to late October. Hunts are conducted in prime alligator habitat throughout South Louisiana, including marshes, swamps, canals, and backwaters near New Orleans.
Hunt locations are selected daily based on water levels, weather conditions, and current alligator activity to ensure the safest and most successful hunt possible.
Who Can Book an Alligator Hunt?
Our guided alligator hunts are open to a wide range of guests, from first-time hunters to experienced outdoorsmen. Hunts are fully guided, and no prior alligator hunting experience is required.
Alligator hunts are available for:
Louisiana residents and non-residents
First-time alligator hunters
Experienced hunters
Individuals or small groups
Private parties
Bucket-list and adventure hunters
We can accommodate up to six people per boat and are able to run multiple boats for larger groups.
Alligator Hunt Rates
Alligator hunts start at $2,500
This base hunt includes:
Two (2) alligators
Can be split between two hunters
Fully guided Louisiana alligator hunt
Boat, equipment, and experienced local guides
Additional Hunters
Additional hunters may join the hunt for $1,250 per person
Additional Alligators
Hunters wishing to harvest more than one alligator per person may add additional alligators at a discounted rate
Pricing for additional alligators is available upon request
DEPOSIT POLICY
Deposits Required to Secure Your Hunt
A $250 deposit per alligator is required at the time of booking
Deposits are non-refundable
Deposits secure your hunt date and assigned alligator tags
Your hunt date is not confirmed until the required deposit is received.
PAYMENT POLICY
Remaining Balance & Payments
The remaining balance is due as discussed at the time of booking
Accepted payment methods will be confirmed during booking
All pricing is subject to applicable state regulations and availability
LICENSE FEES (NOT INCLUDED) Non-Resident License Information
Non-resident alligator licenses are not included in hunt pricing
Non-resident alligator license fee is $150
Licenses are issued by Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries
Hunters are responsible for securing all required licenses prior to the hunt.
IMPORTANT BOOKING NOTES
All hunts are conducted during official Louisiana alligator season
Hunt availability is limited and dates fill quickly
Deposits are non-refundable under all circumstances
Weather and water conditions may affect hunt scheduling for safety reasons
ALLIGATOR PROCESSING & TAXIDERMY OPTIONS
What’s Included with Your Alligator Hunt
Every guided alligator hunt includes:
Harvesting of your alligator(s)
Check meat from your harvested gator(s)
Guidance on processing and preservation options
Coordination for taxidermy and skinning services if requested
We walk you through all available options so you can decide how you’d like to preserve your alligator after the hunt.
TAXIDERMY OPTIONS
Head Taxidermy
We offer head taxidermy options for harvested alligators. Pricing varies depending on the style of mount selected.
Head taxidermy costs are based on the style chosen
Taxidermy deposits are cash only
Please be prepared with cash if you plan to have taxidermy work done
Specific pricing and style options will be discussed during or immediately after your hunt.
SKINNING & HIDE OPTIONS
Skinning, Tanning, and Meat Processing
If you would like to:
Have your gator skinned for meat
Have the hide removed for tanning
Preserve the skin for future taxidermy or display
These services are available for an additional cost.
Skinning & Processing Pricing
$300–$600 per alligator
Pricing varies based on:
Size of the alligator
Type of skinning requested
Payment for Skinning
Skinning payments are accepted via cash or Venmo
Skinning and processing may not be completed until up to 24 hours after the hunt
IMPORTANT NOTES
Processing, skinning, and taxidermy services are optional
All additional processing fees are separate from hunt pricing
Availability and timelines may vary depending on harvest size and conditions
Safety Is Our Priority
Alligator hunting demands respect, preparation, and experience. Safety is our top priority on every hunt. Our boats are well-maintained, our equipment is professional-grade, and our guides are trained to manage every situation responsibly.
Every hunt begins with a safety briefing so all guests understand procedures and expectations.
Ready to Experience Louisiana Alligator Hunt?
Spots are limited during alligator season. Book early to secure your hunt.
