How To Bet On Sports In Louisiana: 2024 Guide For LA Bettors

Fact Checked by Blake Weishaar

If you're new to sports betting in Louisiana, you could be feeling a bit intimidated. You might have an idea of who you want to pick to win in this weekend's Saints game or how many points the Pelicans score tonight. However, that's just the tip of the iceberg.

Learning how to bet on sports in Louisiana takes time to learn the nuances. Which Louisiana sportsbooks do you want to use? Should you use multiple? And what do all these + and - numbers really mean?

We've put together this beginner's guide to all things Louisiana sports betting to make you feel more confident as you place your very first bet.

Choose From These Recommended Louisiana Sportsbooks

As you are learning how to bet on sports in Louisiana, these seven operators make up our A-list for a combinaton of trustworthiness, features, customer support, solid betting odds and more. 

Verified Offers Verified By Our Experts
1
Best Choice
Bet365 Sports
Best Choice
Must be 21+ to participate & present in Louisiana. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. T&C's apply.
Live Betting Yes
Live Support Chat Yes
Same Game Parlay Yes
Deposit To Qualify 10
Promo Code Not Required
2
Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate & present in LA. In partnership with Sam’s Town Shreveport Casino. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit BetMGM.com for Terms & Conditions. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico.
Live Betting Yes
Live Support Chat Yes
Same Game Parlay Yes
Deposit To Qualify 10
Promo Code LABETSBONUS
3
Must be 21+ to participate. Terms and conditions apply.
Live Betting Yes
Live Support Chat Yes
Same Game Parlay Yes
Deposit To Qualify 10
Promo Code LABET1000
4
21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). 1 per new customer. Min. $5 deposit. Min. $5 bet. Max. $150 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: dkng.co/bball. Ends 1/5/25 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DraftKings. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER,
Live Betting Yes
Live Support Chat Yes
Same Game Parlay Yes
Deposit To Qualify 5
Promo Code Not Required
5
Live Betting Yes
Live Support Chat Yes
Same Game Parlay Yes
Deposit To Qualify 5
Promo Code Not Required

As you can see, each of the seven operators listed above has a welcome offer for you. Not only can you open an account at more than one sportsbook, it is a best practice to do so. Among the benefits: You can receive multiple offers and you can shop for odds.

How Does Sports Betting Work in Louisiana?

Sports betting in Louisiana has gained popularity and offers exciting opportunities for people to engage in their favorite sports while potentially earning a few bucks along the way. To understand how to sports bet in Louisiana, let's dive into the basics.

In Louisiana, sports betting operates under specific legislation or constitutional amendments that have made it legal in the state. This allows licensed sportsbooks, both physical and online, to offer their services to bettors within Louisiana's jurisdiction.

It's important to note, you can't participate in sports betting everywhere in Louisiana. Only 55 of the 64 parishes approved sports betting when it was legalized in November 2020. Make sure that you're in a location where it's legal to bet on sports.

With that being said, you need to follow a few simple steps to place a bet on sports in Louisiana:

Must be 21+ to participate. Terms and conditions apply.

How Do I Place a Bet on Sports in Louisiana?

Placing your first bet on sports in Louisiana can be an exciting and potentially lucrative endeavor. It can also be fairly intimidating. From choosing and understanding sportsbook promos, finding the right reputable sportsbook and navigating the available betting options. So, let's dive in and get you on the right track to sports betting in the Pelican State. 

  • Choose a Reliable Sportsbook: Select a licensed and regulated sportsbook that operates legally within the state of Louisiana. Ensure the sportsbook offers a user-friendly interface, competitive odds, a wide range of sports markets, and reliable customer support.
  • Explore Louisiana Sportsbook Promos: Sportsbooks want you to sign up on their platform so most of the apps provide a promo code to use when you sign up. You should find Louisiana sports betting promos - either one or multiple 0 to use when choosing which book(s) you're interested in signing up for. 
  • Pay attention to the promo's terms and conditions as they can be a bit tricky to understand for any new sports bettor. Another note: not all sportsbooks require you to use a promo code - or bonus code - on sign up. Some, such as DraftKings Louisiana, don't require you to use one to take advantage of their promotion.
  • Create an Account: Sign up with the chosen sportsbook by providing the required information, such as your name, email address, and age. This is typically where you'll have to provide the promo code you found.
  • Deposit Funds: Fund your sportsbook account using one of the available payment options. Most sportsbooks accept credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. Choose the method that suits you best.
  • Explore Betting Markets: Browse through the sports and events available for betting. Louisiana sportsbooks like bet365 Louisiana cover a variety of sports, including popular leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, as well as college sports, golf, and more.
  • Understand Betting Lines: Betting lines represent the odds and potential payouts for different bets. Familiarize yourself with the different types of wagers, such as moneyline, point spreads, parlays, prop bets, over/under totals, futures, and live betting.
Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate & present in LA. In partnership with Sam’s Town Shreveport Casino. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit BetMGM.com for Terms & Conditions. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico.

How Do I Read Betting Lines?

In the United States, including Louisiana, American odds are commonly used for sports betting. American odds are displayed as positive or negative numbers whether you're betting at Caesars Sportsbook Louisiana or any of the other number of legal sportsbooks throughout the state. Positive odds indicate the potential profit on a $100 bet, while negative odds represent the amount you need to bet to win $100.

For example:

  • Positive odds: +200 means a potential profit of $200 on a $100 bet.
  • Negative odds: -150 means you need to bet $150 to win $100.

It's always a good idea to think about odds by betting with $100. You certainly don't ever have to bet that large of a wager, but it's good practice when you're just learning how to bet on sports to use that number when analyzing different odds on the market.

How Much Should You Wager on a Bet?

Determining the amount to wager on a bet requires careful consideration. It's key to establish a bankroll management strategy to ensure responsible and sustainable betting habits for yourself. Here are a few tips to help you decide how much to wager:

  • Set a Budget: Allocate a specific amount of money dedicated to sports betting. This should be an amount you can afford to lose without affecting your financial stability.
  • Determine Unit Size: A common approach is to set a unit size, typically a percentage of your overall bankroll, for each bet. For example, if your unit size is $10 and you make a $20 bet, you've bet 2 units. This helps manage risks and prevents excessive losses.
  • Assess Confidence Level: Consider your confidence in the bet you're placing. If you have strong convictions about a particular wager, you might decide to bet a larger portion of your unit size.
  • Start Small: If you're a beginner, it's advisable to start with smaller units and wagers while you familiarize yourself with the betting process and gain experience.

Remember, responsible sports betting involves managing your bankroll wisely, avoiding reckless wagers, and never betting more than you can comfortably afford to lose.

Choosing the Right Sportsbook for Louisiana Sports Betting Beginners

Selecting among the right Louisiana sports betting apps is crucial for a positive betting experience as a beginner. Consider the following factors when choosing a sportsbook:

What Sports Do You Want to Bet on?

Make sure that the sportsbook you're researching covers the sports you are interested in betting on. All of our Louisiana sportsbook reviews cover the sports you can bet on at that specific book. Look for a wide range of options, including popular sports like football, basketball, baseball, and hockey all the way to auto racing, soccer, tennis, and more.

Is There a Specific Bet Type You Want to Try?

Different sportsbooks may offer varying bet types. If you have a specific bet type in mind, such as parlays or prop bets, ensure that the sportsbook provides those options. It's important to research each operator to see if they provide the bet you want to make. For example, if you're interested in betting on the Saints playoff chances, one sportsbook may give you the ability to while others won't.

Bonuses & Promotions

Check for any welcome bonuses or promotions offered by the sportsbook. These can provide additional value and enhance your betting experience. Sportsbooks often change their promos to attract new users; often during the start of the NFL season is a great time to look for the best promotions available. They'll also provide great bonuses during specific events such as the Super Bowl, The Masters, NBA Finals, and more.

It's also important to note that sportsbook promos aren't solely for the new users. Once you sign up for a sportsbook, check back on their mobile app often to see if there's a new promotion you can take advantage of such as the Fanatics Sportsbook Louisiana promo.

Security

Ensure that the sportsbook employs strict security measures to protect your personal and financial information. Look for SSL encryption and licensed operators to ensure a safe and secure betting environment. After all, you're giving the sportsbook a lot of information such as personal details and banking information so you have to trust they have your best interest at heart.

As long as you're using a legal sportsbook that has been approved to operate in Louisiana, you're covered here.

Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate & present in LA. In partnership with Sam’s Town Shreveport Casino. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit BetMGM.com for Terms & Conditions. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico.

Types of Louisiana Sports Bets

There are a number of different ways to make a sports bet. For beginners, reading through all the different methods is important so you understand the potential outcomes of a specific bet.

All the following types of sports bets listed below bring you different value. For example, a parlay includes stringing together a number of different picks into one which means you can maximize your potential for a payout. On the other hand, a moneyline bet is one simple pick.

When learning how to sports bet in Louisiana, you'll encounter various bet types. Here are some common ones to familiarize yourself with:

  • Moneyline A moneyline bet involves picking the winner of a game or match. Think Derek Carr can lead the Saints to victory over the Panthers? Let's say they're on the road and find themselves as the underdog. You'll see a + sign in front of their odds. Placing a bet on them to win means you're placing a straight-up moneyline bet.
  • Spread Point spread bets are another simple way to place a wager. Spreads level the playing field by assigning a point handicap to the favorite team. Bettors wager on whether the favored team will win by more than the spread or if the underdog will lose by fewer points than the spread. In a point spread bet, you may see the Saints are -3. If you take that bet you're saying the Saints will win by four or more points. If the Saints end up winning by two or less, you'd lose your wager. If New Orleans won by exactly three points, your bet would be considered a "push" and your wager would be returned to you, but no winnings.
  • Totals With totals bets (commonly referred to as over/unders), you predict whether the combined score of a game will be more or less than a specified value set by the sportsbook. Think the New Orleans Pelicans and Atlanta Hawks game total will be more than 198 points? In that situation, you'd want to bet the over. However, if you see it to be a defensive kind of game, you'd lean on betting the under.
  • Parlays Parlays involve combining multiple bets into one single wager. To win a parlay bet, all individual bets within the parlay must be successful. Parlays offer higher potential payouts but carry higher risk since you're choosing multiple individual bets. You may run into some language that mentions "legs" in a parlay. Using the Saints and Panthers as an example, let's say you believe Carr throws for 3 touchdowns, Chris Olave has over 100 receiving yards, and the Saints win. Each of those individual bets are considered a "leg" in the parlay.
  • Prop Bets Proposition bets, or prop bets, are wagers placed on specific outcomes or events within a game or match. These can include individual player performances, game statistics, or even entertainment-related events during sports broadcasts. One of the most popular prop bets out there is the result of the coin toss in the Super Bowl. Another is the type of Gatorade that's poured on the winning head coach.
  • Live Betting Live betting allows you to place bets on games or matches that are already in progress. This dynamic form of betting provides opportunities to react to changing circumstances and can add excitement to your betting experience.
  • Futures Futures bets are long-term wagers placed on outcomes that will be determined later in the season. Examples include betting on the winner of a championship or the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of a season. Another would be analyzing the Saints Super Bowl odds and making a bet on whether you believe they'll make it and/or win.
Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate & present in LA. In partnership with Sam’s Town Shreveport Casino. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit BetMGM.com for Terms & Conditions. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico.

Features at Available Sportsbooks

Louisiana sportsbooks need to stand out from one another in a competitive market. With so many options available, it's important for sportsbooks to differentiate themselves and attract new sports bettors like yourself. 

When exploring different sportsbooks and how to bet on sports in Louisiana, there are several key features to pay attention to:

Easy Payment Options

Convenient and secure payment options are essential when choosing a sportsbook. Look for sportsbooks that offer a variety of payment methods such as credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. A number of sportsbooks, such as BetRivers Louisiana, even gives you the ability to deposit and withdraw money via PayPal. Having multiple options allows you to choose the method that is most convenient and comfortable for you.

The Sports Market

A good sportsbook should offer a diverse range of sports and events to bet on. Whether you're a fan of football, basketball, baseball, soccer, or niche sports like tennis or golf, look for a wide selection that caters to your individual interests and preferences. Remember: Sports betting should be a fun way to enjoy the event. The more options available, the better chances you have of finding the games, sports, or events that you want to bet on.

Odds Offered

Comparing the odds offered by different sportsbooks is crucial to finding the most favorable lines. Even slight differences in odds can significantly impact your potential returns, especially over the long haul. Take the time to research and compare the odds to ensure you're getting the best value for your bets.

Customer Support

Reliable customer support is vital for resolving any issues or concerns that may arise. Look for sportsbooks that provide multiple channels of support, such as live chat, email, or phone. Responsive and knowledgeable staff can help address any questions or problems you may encounter during your betting experience. A sportsbook like BetMGM Louisiana, for example, provides a number of support options to ensure you receive assistance when needed.

21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). 1 per new customer. Min. $5 deposit. Min. $5 bet. Max. $150 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: dkng.co/bball. Ends 1/5/25 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DraftKings. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER,

Most Popular Sports to Bet on in Louisiana

In Louisiana, sports enthusiasts have a wide array of popular sports to bet on. Here are some of the most popular sports among Louisiana bettors:

  • NFL Betting Football, especially the NFL, garners significant attention and betting activity in Louisiana. Bettors eagerly wager on regular season games, playoffs, and the Super Bowl. The home state Saints have been a popular betting option for Louisiana residents for years and with Carr in town it's hard to imagine that changes.
  • NBA Betting Basketball, particularly the NBA, attracts a large fan base and betting interest. Louisiana sports bettors eagerly wager on NBA games, specifically the Pelicans, including regular season matchups and the highly anticipated NBA Finals.
  • MLB Betting The state of Louisiana may not be home to a Major League Baseball team but that doesn't deter residents from engaging in MLB betting. From regular season games to the World Series, Louisiana bettors eagerly place their wagers on baseball outcomes.
  • NHL Betting Like the MLB, there are no NHL teams in Louisiana. However, Ice hockey has a dedicated fan base in Louisiana, and NHL betting provides an opportunity to showcase their support for their favorite teams. Bettors eagerly wager on regular season games, playoffs, and the Stanley Cup Finals.
  • Golf Betting Golf betting appeals to those who appreciate individual sports and the skillful game of golf. Louisiana bettors enjoy wagering on major golf tournaments, such as the Masters, U.S. Open, and PGA Championship.
  • College Sports Betting Louisiana is home to several renowned college sports teams, including the LSU Tigers, Tulane Green Wave, Louisiana Tech, and more. College sports betting enthusiasts can place wagers on their favorite college teams and major college sporting events. With the LSU Tigers baseball and women's basketball teams winning NCAA D1 championships in 2023, college sports betting in Louisiana may not be hotter than it is today.

Tips For Sports Betting In Louisiana

As you learn how to sports bet and embark on your sports betting journey in Louisiana, consider the following tips to enhance your experience:

Lines Are Always Moving

Sportsbook odds and lines can change due to various factors such as team news, injuries, or betting market trends. It's important to stay updated and be prepared to adjust your betting strategy based on these line movements.

One good example to watch for is on NFL Sunday mornings, teams provide their inactive lists an hour-and-a-half prior to kickoff. Often you’ll see lines change based on this information so keeping an eye out for team websites or Twitter accounts. Monitoring these things and line changes can provide opportunities to find value or take advantage of favorable odds.

Shop for the Best Line

Different sportsbooks may offer slightly different odds for the same game or event. This is referred to as "line shopping". Taking the time to compare odds across multiple sportsbooks ensures that you get the most favorable line and, subsequently, higher potential payouts. By shopping for the best line, you maximize your chances of maximizing your returns. It’s always a good idea to sign up for multiple sportsbooks to not only make it easier to line shop but to take advantage of each sportsbooks promos.

Identify Your Strengths (and Weaknesses)

It's beneficial to focus on sports and bet types that you are knowledgeable about. By identifying your strengths and weaknesses, you can make more informed betting decisions as you learn how to bet on sports games. If you have a deep understanding of football, for example, it might be wise to focus on betting on football games rather than branching out to sports you know less about. Specializing in specific areas can increase your chances for success.

Set a Betting Limit

Establishing a betting limit is essential for responsible gambling and safeguarding your bankroll. The nice thing is that operators like PointsBet Louisiana Sportsbook allows you to set a budget straight on your account. Determine an amount of money you are comfortable losing and set it as your betting limit. Avoid the temptation to chase losses by betting more than you can afford. By setting a limit, you maintain control over your betting activities and prevent any negative financial consequences.

How to Bet on Sports in Louisiana FAQs

Author

Tyler Olson

Tyler Olson has worked in sports media for over a decade, writing, editing, and optimizing primarily NFL and sports betting content. His primary focus is giving users in the states of Louisiana, Colorado and New York the most up-to-date information on these states’ operators and sharing the latest promo code offerings they have to offer.

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