Flood waters in the Maurepas Swamp Wildlife Management Area (WMA) have caused the closure of the deer hunting season, as announced by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF). This closure was put into effect by the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission when the flood gauge reached 3.0 feet.
The deer hunting season will resume once the water level falls below 2.5 feet. You can monitor the WMA gauge height at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/monitoring-location/300602090375100/#parameterCode=00065&period=P7D&showMedian=false.
The Maurepas Swamp WMA spans 112,615 acres and is situated about 25 miles west of New Orleans along the southern shore of Lake Maurepas, extending westward to near Sorrento. This area covers land in Ascension, Livingston, St. John the Baptist, and St. James parishes.
Hunters can find white-tailed deer, squirrel, rabbit, and waterfowl among the game species available in the Maurepas Swamp WMA. To access the area, visitors must have a WMA Access Permit, Senior Hunting/Fishing License, Louisiana Sportsman’s Paradise License, or Lifetime Hunting/Fishing License. More details can be found at https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/wmarefugeconservation-area-licenses-and-permits.
For further information on the Maurepas Swamp WMA, you can visit http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/maurepas-swamp or get in touch with the LDWF Hammond Field Office at 985-543-4777.
Additionally, hunters and visitors are encouraged to stay updated on the status of the area and any changes in regulations that may occur due to the flood waters. It is essential to prioritize safety and respect the guidelines set forth by the LDWF to ensure the preservation of the wildlife and habitat in the Maurepas Swamp WMA.
By staying informed and following the necessary precautions, hunters can help maintain the integrity of the area and continue to enjoy the diverse range of game species that call the Maurepas Swamp WMA home. Remember, conservation and responsible hunting practices are key to ensuring the sustainability of our natural resources for future generations to appreciate and cherish.