Call Captain Chad Rudolph (504) 270-5986
Call Captain Chad Rudolph (504) 270-5986
Attention all anglers in Venice, Louisiana! New shark fishing regulations have come into effect as of January 20, 2025, specifically for Louisiana state waters. Here’s what you need to know:
Blacktip and Bull Sharks: The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) now allows recreational fishers to catch Blacktip and Bull Sharks without restrictions on size or number, but this applies only in state waters around Venice, LA. Remember, federal waters have different rules.
Previous Regulations: Before this change, the regulation allowed for only one Blacktip or Bull Shark per day, with each shark needing to be over 54 inches in length.
Shortfin Mako Sharks: There’s a new prohibition on catching, possessing, or keeping Shortfin Mako Sharks for both commercial and recreational fishing in any waters, including those around Venice, LA.
While shark meat isn’t among the most sought-after seafood in the U.S., its market is steadily expanding. Varieties like mako, thresher, and blacktip are targeted for their flesh, which resembles boneless, skinless chicken breast – very white, with the same texture and a tendency to be dry.
Shark meat goes by several names in the culinary world, including flake, dogfish, grayfish, and whitefish. It’s versatile; you might find it in imitation crab (surimi) or used in fish and chips. Due to its low-fat content, shark meat can dry out if grilled at high temperatures. To combat this, marinating thin slices, wrapping them in bacon for grilling, or smoking them can yield delicious results, like a robust smoked shark dip. Alternatively, cutting the meat into nugget-sized pieces, breading, and deep-frying can make for a kid-friendly treat that’s a hit with children.
However, caution is advised when consuming certain species like blacktip and bull sharks because of their potentially high mercury content. Health officials particularly recommend that pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children avoid these types. If you decide to eat these sharks, opt for smaller, younger ones, and make sure they are cleaned and bled right after being caught to reduce any off-putting flavors.
Ensure you’re up-to-date with these regulations to enjoy your fishing charter experience in Venice, Louisiana, while respecting the local marine environment. Stay compliant and enjoy the thrill of shark fishing in one of the Gulf’s prime inshore locations!
