The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has recently launched the Louisiana Recreational Creel Survey (LA Creel) to provide precise, real-time estimates of fish harvest. Good data is necessary for sound management decisions about our important recreational fisheries.
This new survey uses a combination of data collected at public fishing areas and phone surveys to calculate harvest estimates. The accuracy and reliability of this survey is dependent on harvest data gathered from interviews at public fishing areas and anglers updating their license contact information.
For instruction on how to update your contact info online, see below.
Please take a few minutes and update your contact information today.
About LA Creel
The Louisiana Recreational Creel Survey (LA Creel) replaces the Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) developed by the National Marine Fisheries Service to collect recreational fisheries harvest data. LDWF fully implemented LA Creel on January 1, 2014 at marinas and boat launches throughout Louisiana.
LA Creel was first used in 2013 to improve estimates of recreational red snapper recreational harvest.
Thanks to the support of Louisiana anglers, LDWF Biologists measured 23 times more fish and surveyed 49 times more vessel trips than the federal MRIP Survey. This meant that we were able to provide more precise estimates of the numbers and sizes of red snapper harvested during that season.
The extensive monitoring from LA Creel gives managers more confidence in their data and a better foundation for management of our fisheries.
Why Survey?
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has created the Louisiana Recreational Creel Survey because fisheries biologists need information from anglers for the sound management of our recreational fisheries. Precise data gathering enables better monitoring of fish stocks, which is important when determining the best management strategy.
What We Need From Anglers Like You
LDWF is using the saltwater fishing license database to conduct email and phone surveys to supplement data collected through LA Creel dockside surveys. For the e-mail and phone survey to be successful, we need anglers to provide accurate phone numbers and email addresses on their fishing license. We also need as many anglers as possible to complete surveys both at public fishing areas and by phone or email. Louisiana anglers can do their part by working together with LDWF to provide the best and most up to date information for responsible management of our recreational fisheries.
How to Update your Contact Information (and be entered in the quarterly raffle)
Desktop Computer or Mobile Device:
- Purchase your recreational saltwater fishing license.
- To be certain you are entered into the sweepstakes click the following link: https://www.la.wildlifelicense.com
- Then choose ‘Update Contact Info.’
- Once you access your account using your fishing license number, make sure you complete the contact information, especially your email address.
- You will receive an email within seven days from ‘License to Win’ to verify your email address.
- Click the ‘verify’ button in the email. You are now entered to win!
Please take a few minutes and update your contact information today!
