These Crawfish are Illegal in 6 States: Violators Could Face a Class 3 Felony & Thousands in Fines

Louisiana produces over 100 million pounds of crawfish annually.¹ While these tasty crustaceans are a beloved staple in Cajun cuisine, they’re not welcome everywhere. In fact, several states have strict laws banning the possession and sale of live Louisiana crawfish.

These regulations aim to protect native ecosystems from the potential damage caused by invasive species. Here is a list of six places where you won’t find a classic crawfish boil happening anytime soon.

1. Illinois

In the Land of Lincoln, it’s a big no-no to import, sell, or even possess live red swamp crawfish. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) considers these crawfish a highly invasive species that can cause significant damage to the environment and native ecosystems. Penalties for violating this law can range from a petty offense with a $195 fine to a Class 3 felony with hefty fines and restitution costs.

So, if you’re in Illinois craving a crawfish boil, you’ll have to settle for frozen or pre-cooked mudbugs instead. The IDNR does allow the possession of four native crayfish species, but they’re not commonly used in the food industry. It’s all about protecting the state’s waterways and preventing the spread of invasive species.

2. Wisconsin

Wisconsin is another state that takes its crawfish regulations seriously. In fact, in 2022, the Wisconsin Department of Justice charged a Louisiana company with 15 criminal counts for illegally transporting and possessing live crawfish. The company was convicted on 10 counts and had to pay over $34,000 in fines and fees.

Wisconsin considers red swamp crawfish an invasive species that can wreak havoc on the state’s aquatic ecosystems. These crawfish are known to outcompete native species for food and habitat, damage shorelines, and burrow deep into the ground. So, if you’re in Wisconsin, it’s best to stick to the state’s famous cheese curds and leave the live crawfish alone.

3. Minnesota

In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, having live crawfish without a special permit can land you a ticket. Minnesota classifies red swamp crawfish as a prohibited invasive species, meaning it’s illegal to “possess, import, purchase, sell, propagate, transport or introduce them to a free-living state” without proper authorization.

Even if you want to import already cooked or frozen Louisiana crawfish into Minnesota, you’ll need to apply for a permit first. The state is serious about protecting its abundant waterways from the potential damage caused by these invasive crustaceans. Stick to the walleye and leave the crawfish in Louisiana.

4. Michigan

Michigan may be home to some native crayfish species, but when it comes to Louisiana’s red swamp crawfish, the state says “no thanks.” Selling, importing, or possessing live crawfish in the Great Lakes State is illegal. Authorities urge residents to watch for these “dangerous invaders” that could harm local ecosystems.

While locals may not be able to enjoy a classic crawfish boil with live mudbugs, they can still get their seafood fix with the state’s famous lake perch and whitefish. It’s all about protecting Michigan’s unique aquatic habitats from the potential damage caused by invasive species.

5. Alaska

You might not immediately associate crawfish boils with Alaska’s chilly wilderness, but this state also has laws banning live Louisiana crawfish. Alaska prohibits the import, sale, and possession of red swamp crawfish.

Alaska may be far from the bayous of Louisiana, but it recognizes the importance of safeguarding its distinctive ecosystems from introducing invasive species. So, if you find yourself in this breathtaking state, you’ll have to get your seafood fix from the local fare – think king crab and other Alaskan delicacies.

6. Hawaii

The tropical paradise of Hawaii is another state that bans live Louisiana crawfish. Like Alaska, Hawaii prohibits the import, sale, and possession of red swamp crawfish to protect its unique island ecosystems.

There are plenty of other delicious seafood options to try in Hawaii, like fresh poke or grilled mahi-mahi. It’s all about savoring the local flavors while helping to preserve Hawaii’s fragile environment.

While Louisiana may be the undisputed king of the crawfish boil, several states have implemented strict regulations banning the possession and sale of live crawfish. So, if you’re traveling outside of Louisiana and craving a classic crawfish boil, be sure to check the local regulations first – you might just have to settle for the frozen variety or find a new seafood favorite altogether.

Source:

1. Louisiana Department of Wildfire and Fisheries