Can I Keep?Spanish mackerel Regulations in Louisiana (2026)
Recreational spanish mackerel rules in Louisiana saltwater, as published by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Size limit
12 inches minimum fork length
Bag limit
15 per person per day
Season
Open year-round in state waters
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational Spanish mackerel rules in Louisiana
- Where
- Statewide
- Size limit
- 12 inches minimum fork length
- Bag limit
- 15 per person per day
- Possession
- 15 per person per day
- Season
- Open year-round in state waters
Commercial rules
Show 1 commercial rule
- Where
- Statewide
- Size limit
- 12 inches fork length (minimum) — 1.The minimum legal size for possession of Spanish mackerel (Scomberomorus maculatus) shall be 12 inches fork length and king mackerel (Scomberomorus cavalla) shall be 24 inches fork length whether caught within or without the territorial waters of Louisiana. No person shall possess, sell, barter, trade or exchange or attempt to sell, barter, trade or exchange Spanish mackerel or king mackerel less than the minimum size requirements.
- Season
- Fishing year begins April 1, season closes when quota is reached
- LDWF Commercial Saltwater Finfish Seasons (https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/commercial-saltwater-finfish-seasons): Spanish mackerel — Fishing year begins April 1, season closes when quota is reached
- LDWF Commercial and For-Hire Fishing Regulations (https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/assets/Resources/Publications/Regulations/2026-Commercial-Fishing.pdf): Spanish Mackerel 12 in. min. fork length None Fishing year begins April 1, closes when quota is reached
Quick answers
What is the spanish mackerel size limit in Louisiana?
12 inches minimum fork length.
How many spanish mackerel can I keep in Louisiana?
15 per person per day.
When is spanish mackerel season in Louisiana?
Open year-round in state waters. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.
Compare Spanish mackerel limits in other states →
More offshore & pelagic in Louisiana
- Bigeye tuna
- Blue marlin
- Bluefin tuna
- Cobia
- King mackerel
- Roundscale spearfish
- Sailfish
- Swordfish
- White marlin
- Yellowfin tuna
All Louisiana saltwater fishing regulations →
Source: Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Most anglers need a Louisiana saltwater license or registry: get one here.