Senate Bill No. 480, introduced by Senator Allain, amends R.S. 56:499.3 to regulate the use of butterfly and bottom nets in the water body known as Oyster Bayou. The bill stipulates that these nets may only be used to catch shrimp when they are suspended from a motor-propelled fishing vessel that is underway. Additionally, the bill prohibits the use of any anchorage or device to secure the nets or any objects attached to them, including unmanned boats, floating platforms, pontoons, or barges.

The proposed legislation retains the existing provisions of the law while clarifying the restrictions on the use of fishing gear in Oyster Bayou. Specifically, it emphasizes that any rope, line, chain, or other device used to connect the nets to the shoreline is also prohibited. This amendment aims to ensure sustainable fishing practices and protect the aquatic environment in the designated area.

Statutes affected:
SB480 Original: