The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is inviting residents across the state to take part in its 15th annual Boating Education Lagniappe Day, offering free certification courses at nine locations statewide.

Set for Saturday, April 25, 2026, the event will feature National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA)-approved boating safety classes, with start times varying by location.

Participants who complete the course will receive official certification required to legally operate certain watercraft.

The event is open to the public, and organizers say it’s designed to make boating safety education accessible—and enjoyable.

Participants will receive:

A NASBLA-approved boating safety course

Official vessel operator certification upon completion

Free lunch

Door prizes at select locations

All courses are offered at no cost, but registration is required, and space is limited. Officials encourage early sign-up as spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

State law requires anyone born after January 1, 1984, to complete an approved boating education course and carry proof of certification to operate a motorboat with more than 10 horsepower. However, LDWF encourages all boaters, regardless of age, to complete the training.

Course instruction will cover a wide range of topics, including boat types and equipment, navigation rules, safety procedures, legal requirements, and more. Additional areas such as trailering, personal watercraft operation, and canoeing will also be included.

Classes will be held in the following cities:

Shreveport

Monroe

Pineville

Lafayette

Lake Charles

Chauvin

Gonzales

Ponchatoula

Slidell

LDWF officials also extended thanks to the Louisiana Wildlife Agents Association and numerous local sponsors and partners for helping make the annual event possible.

For more information or to register, participants are encouraged to visit the LDWF website and select a nearby course location.