In the past, Louisiana has been referred to as a “Sportsman’s Paradise.” This name includes hunting, fishing, camping, and anything else that Louisiana has to offer in the outdoor department. I think this picture describes Louisiana because it shows a small part of why the name Sportsman’s Paradise was given. Throughout the state there are many bodies of water on which thousands of people go fishing, boating, crabbing, crawfishing etc. each year. It is typical throughout the state, when riding in a boat or down a road beside a body of water, to see a swamp: cypress trees with moss hanging from the limbs, still or slow moving water, and an egret or two fishing for a meal. If you look closely enough, you will usually come across a bed of cypress knees and quite a few lily pads. This area is home to not only many types of birds, fish, reptiles, and bugs, but also to the avid Louisiana fishermen.
Just beyond the waters of the swamp, Louisiana is known for its hunting land. Close to the water but somewhat on land, Louisianians hunt for duck, deer, and alligator. It is also not uncommon to find a large strip of camps along a body of water where the hunters and fishermen stay in between recreation. Scenes like the one in this photograph are found as pictures, paintings, and postcards throughout the state. When you stop at a rest stop as you are passing through Louisiana, you can pick up any number of postcards or pamphlets describing recreation and heritage of the state and there will usually be a photograph similar to this one printed on the front.
I find that this picture describes Louisiana because it is an example of the areas we are the most known for. The theme of “sportsman’s paradise” was so influential that it was previously found on every license plate issued in the state. Louisiana is well known for its offerings of serene scenery during a sunset and its family oriented recreation of hunting and fishing. Here, it is something that brings generations of families together to do something that not only puts food on the table, but a brings a sense of unity to the family. As a child, I can remember going out on the boat with my mom and dad and fishing until the sun went down. There were also many occasions where my dad and I went hunting together. My dad always made sure to make it a learning experience as well as an enjoyable one. I think that at one point or another everyone from Louisiana should get a taste of what our sportsman’s paradise is really all about. In these trips with my family and others I have met many new people and learned what to do in times of crisis. At least I won’t starve to death during the recession… due to my Louisiana heritage.