Triploid Grass Carp Permits — How It Works in Louisiana

Grass carp are one of the best tools for controlling pond weeds — but in Louisiana, a state permit is required before they can be stocked. Only certified triploid (sterile) grass carp are legal, and Louisiana's rules are strict. Here's how it works when you order from Lake Master Pros.

Pond in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas or Mississippi? No state permit is needed there — order the usual way.

1. Apply for your permit (do this first). The permit comes from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF). The application goes to LDWF in Baton Rouge — call (225) 765-2898 to check on an application. The permit costs $50, it's good for one pond, and it's valid for one year. Louisiana allows up to 10 grass carp per acre, and no more than 500 fish per permit without special approval. Getting more than 500 fish takes special approval from LDWF and a site visit.

2. Plan ahead. Permits can take time, so don't wait until your weeds are taking over. Start the permit early — you can order your fish while it's in process, and we'll hold delivery until the permit is in hand; just note your order is permit pending when you order.

3. Send us a copy of your permit. When you place your grass carp order on our website, the order form asks you to upload a copy of your permit. You can also choose "I'll send it later" — just get it to us before your delivery date, and we'll mark your order permit pending until it arrives.

4. We deliver certified fish, with the paperwork. Our grass carp are certified triploid by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and your delivery comes with a bill of lading and a copy of the triploid certification — everything Louisiana requires to ride with the fish. Keep those papers with your permit.

How many do you need? Louisiana allows up to 10 triploid grass carp per acre of pond, 500 fish max per permit.

Questions? Call us — we're glad to walk you through it. Order online at lakemasterpros.com/order-fish, or call (855) 550-3474 / (800) 433-2950.