Late-Season Crawfish Farming: Top Three Signs to Watch For in Louisiana

Crawfish farming in Louisiana is a time-honored tradition, but as the season progresses, it's essential to recognize the signs that indicate it's nearing its end. Here are the top three indicators that signal the late stages of crawfish season, as shared by seasoned farmers.

1. **Increased Fish Presence in Traps**:

One of the most telling signs of the season winding down is the presence of fish in the crawfish traps. Farmers drain their ponds completely during the off-season, ensuring no fish survive. However, when these ponds are reflooded, some fish inevitably find their way back in, often through the pumping process from the reservoir. Additionally, fish eggs can hitch a ride on birds' feet, contributing to the fish population in the traps.

2. **Long Grass in Crawfish Ponds**:

Early in the season, crawfish ponds are relatively free of unwanted vegetation. However, as the season progresses, long grass and other unwanted species begin to invade. This is primarily due to seeds being blown into the ponds by the wind. While not ideal, this overgrowth can take over the ponds by late season. Fortunately, it's not a significant issue for the overall health of the crawfish population.

3. **Hard Crawfish Shells**:

Another clear sign that the season is drawing to a close is the hardening of crawfish shells. This indicates that it's almost time to drain the ponds again, signaling the end of the current farming cycle.

These insights provide a fascinating glimpse into the lifecycle of crawfish farming in Louisiana. For a more detailed look at these signs and how farmers manage their ponds throughout the season, watch the full video on this topic.