Hunting
Some of the South’s best bottomland forest recreational hunting is found on Indian Bayou. The area’s small game includes squirrel, rabbit, woodcock and snipe. White-tailed deer and wild turkey are the only big game species. The area’s unique location in the center of the Mississippi Flyway, an important route for migratory birds, can produce superb waterfowl hunting. The area is also the first public land in the state to feature a 350-acre tract specifically for wheelchair-bound hunters.
Hunting seasons vary from year to year.
Fishing
The area’s lakes, sloughs and bayous are home to abundant commercial and recreational fisheries. Popular sport-fish include: • Bluegill (bream) • Warmouth • Red ear sunfish • White and black crappie (Sac-a-Lait) • Striped, yellow and largemouth bass, • Catfish, Buffalo fish and freshwater drum are fished recreationally and commercially in the area, as are crawfish. A permit is needed for crawfishing, which can be obtained at the project office.
Boating and Paddling
Touring Indian Bayou by canoe, kayak or boat offers a close-up perspective on one of the nation’s last great scenic river swamps and its wildlife. A 24-mile network of paddling trails allows visitors to navigate the area’s streams and bayous without a guide. Mapped by the Corps in partnership with Atchafalaya Paddling Trails, the state of Louisiana and volunteers, these trails feature reflective blue and white directional signs at major turning points.
Hiking, biking and horseback riding
Hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders of all skill levels can access Indian Bayou through 35 miles of scenic trails, 13 of which are designated specifically for hiking.
ATV
Riders of all skill levels can access Indian Bayou along 8 miles of ATV all-weather trails. Additionally, for individuals with a LDWF-issued mobility impaired card or those over 60 may access an additional 4 miles of Physically Challenged ATV Trails. Off-road operation is strictly forbidden. These ATV trails are open from 4 a.m. until two hours after sunset.
What licenses are required to hunt and fish Indian Bayou?
State licenses are required to hunt and fish in Indian Bayou. Information about hunting and fishing licenses is available at www.wlf. louisiana.gov. A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit is required to hunt and to crawfish in Indian Bayou. These permits are free of charge and are available at the ABFS Project Office. For more information please visit or call the project office.