The House Concurrent Resolution No. by Representative Orgeron seeks to enact a new rule under the Louisiana Administrative Code (LAC 76:VII.363(A)(4)) regarding the harvest of red drum fish. This resolution creates an exception to the existing prohibition on harvesting red drum that exceed the regulatory size limit of twenty-seven inches. It authorizes the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to issue special permits for the harvest of bull red drum during certain limited fishing tournaments, provided that these tournaments meet specific eligibility criteria, such as being held regularly for at least five years and including a bull red category.
The resolution emphasizes the importance of maintaining traditional fishing tournaments that contribute to cultural and recreational activities in Louisiana, while still supporting the state's red drum stock recovery goals. By allowing these tournaments to continue offering bull red categories, the resolution aims to balance the preservation of recreational fishing with effective wildlife management, ensuring that the overall health of the red drum population is not significantly impacted. The resolution also directs the office of the state register to print the amendments in the Louisiana Administrative Code.