Honorably discharged, Louisiana resident veterans will have extra hunting dates on private lands during the 2014-15 Louisiana deer hunting season. Legislative action initiated by Rep. Jeff Thompson (Dist. 8, Bossier City) during the 2014 Regular Legislative Session, and signed into law by Governor Bobby Jindal as Act 678, provides a special deer season for Louisiana residents who are honorably discharged veterans of the U. S. Armed Forces. This season will run concurrently with the open Youth Season in all zones, and will be restricted to hunting on private lands.

"Louisiana has a long and rich tradition of those who serve our nation and protect our freedom. As the Sportsman's Paradise, it is appropriate we show our appreciation with this special hunting season for these heroes, " said Thompson

The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission adopted in June the following dates for a special Resident Honorably Discharged Veterans Deer Season on private lands:

Areas 1, 4, 5, 6, and 9: Oct. 25-31

Area 2: Oct. 11-17

Areas 3, 7, 8, and 10: Sept. 27-Oct. 3.

This special deer season, which is available for youth (ages 17 and younger) and physically challenged hunters, precedes the opening weekend of regular firearms season. The 2014-15 Louisiana Hunting Regulations booklet contains the complete listing of all deer season dates in the 10 designated deer areas in the state. To view the booklet on line, go to http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/hunting/regulations .

For more information, contact Steve Smith at 225-765-2359 or 318-487-5885, or ssmith@wlf.la.gov. \