Troy Landry Wiki/Bio, Net Worth, Prostate Cancer, Wife, and Kids.

Deep in the swamps of Louisiana, where Spanish moss hangs like curtains from the cypress trees and bayous wind like veins through the land, a young boy named Troy Landry was learning the ways of the wild. Born and raised in the tight-knit village of Pierre Part, he didn’t grow up dreaming of television fame or million-dollar ventures. He grew up chasing raccoons after school, speaking Cajun French at home, and hauling in crawfish with hands toughened by the elements. That boy would grow up to become one of the most recognizable faces in American reality television—but he’s never stopped being a man of the swamp.

Today, Troy Landry is best known as the star of Swamp People, the History Channel series that made alligator hunting a household topic. But his story stretches far beyond the screen. He’s a husband of more than 40 years, a father to three sons, and a grandfather passing on lessons carved from nature itself. His net worth may exceed $2 million, and his name is attached to everything from seafood restaurants to signature catchphrases, yet Troy’s heart remains anchored in the muddy waters of southern Louisiana.

This biography explores the many dimensions of Landry’s life—from childhood traplines and cypress logging to family businesses and community legacy. Whether he’s catching 300 gators a season, co-hosting spin-offs in the Everglades, or simply sipping coffee with his wife Bernita in their hand-built wooden home, Troy Landry lives with the same quiet grit and unshakable purpose that has defined Cajun life for generations.

Early Life and Family Legacy: Born of the Bayou

Troy Landry was born on June 9, 1960, in Pierre Part, Louisiana—a small village nestled along the winding Bayou Pierre Part. Surrounded by water, wildlife, and a tight-knit community, Pierre Part wasn’t just a place to live; it was a way of life.

Growing up in the heart of Cajun country, Troy was immersed in local traditions from the start. He attended public schools nearby, where formal lessons were only part of the education. The rest came from the swamp—learning to track weather patterns, spot game in the trees, and live in harmony with nature.

He was raised by his parents Duffy and Myrtle Landry, who passed down a legacy of hard work and deep respect for the land. Alongside his brothers, Buba and Guy, Troy grew up in a home where Cajun values shaped every day. Whether it was the language they spoke, the food they caught, or the stories they shared, life in the Landry household revolved around their bond with the bayou. It wasn’t just where they were from—it was who they were.

Heritage and Hard Work: Growing Up in the Heart of Pierre Part

Troy’s earliest memories were shaped by his surroundings—moss-draped cypress trees, winding bayous, and the constant hum of wildlife. In those days, families in Pierre Part lived directly off the land. Fishing, trapping, and moss gathering weren’t hobbies—they were essential ways of life.

His family’s connection to the swamp ran deep. His grandfather lived aboard boats, making a living by collecting Spanish moss, a once-valued material used to stuff sofas, mattresses, and even car seats. Buyers would arrive monthly to purchase the moss, and this trade sustained many families before commercial fishing became dominant. In many ways, their lifestyle mirrored that of the Native Americans—entirely dependent on nature’s offerings.

His grandfather also worked in cypress logging, supplying timber used in construction projects as far away as Baton Rouge. Troy’s mother, meanwhile, picked cotton in her youth—an experience that instilled in her, and in turn her children, a strong work ethic and a sense of perseverance.

Cajun French was the language spoken at home. With grandparents who spoke only limited English, Troy grew up fluent in French, using it daily with his parents. Today, he continues to speak it with family, recognizing that preserving the language is key to preserving his cultural identity.

Traps, Tides, and Tradition: Troy Landry’s Swamp-Smart Childhood

In his youth, the bayous teemed with life and opportunity. Dozens of local families made their living harvesting crawfish, mussels, sardines, and shrimp. Each season brought new responsibilities, and residents adapted with the shifting tides of nature.

Troy began trapping and hunting as early as the second or third grade. He would rush home from school and head into the woods, setting traps or fishing lines before sunset. Troy’s deep connection to swamp life extended into every aspect of his youth—including school. Whenever he found himself struggling in a class, he’d turn to what he knew best: the wild game he trapped in the afternoons. He would bring raccoons, rabbits, or even alligator meat to school and offer them to his teachers—a form of lighthearted bribery. While it may have cost him a few catches, it almost always worked in his favor. As Troy put it, he managed to pass with ‘pretty good grades.’

Initially, he covered ground on foot, checking lines and traps after class. But in 1973, when high waters hit the area, his father gifted him a small boat with a six-horsepower engine. At just 13, Troy began navigating the swamps alone—marking his transition from land-based learning to mastering life on the water.

Even at that age, Troy demonstrated fierce work ethic and sharp instincts. He observed animal behavior closely and quickly learned how to provide for his family. His catches became not only a source of pride, but also a vital contribution to the household economy.

Trapping remained one of his greatest passions. At his peak, he maintained 250 to 300 traps, targeting everything from raccoons and muskrats to nutrias, bobcats, and more. It was demanding but rewarding work. However, when the fur market collapsed, Troy eventually gave up trapping—saving a handful of traps to one day pass on to his grandchildren.

From the Bayou to a Career: Crafting a Life from Louisiana’s Waters

As he grew older, Troy made a career out of what others considered a way of life. Raised in the Atchafalaya Basin and fluent in the skills of his ancestors, he embraced the season-based economy of the swamp. Spring brought crawfishing; fall and winter were for trapping; summer meant fishing; and September signaled the start of alligator season.

Though commercial fishing and trapping once supported dozens in his town, globalization and industry changes made the work unsustainable. Troy, however, remained committed—doing whatever it took to support his family. Crawfishing was a mainstay. Though competition from foreign markets made the trade less profitable, the Landry family still harvests crawfish annually, both from farm ponds and the wild Atchafalaya Basin.

Trapping was another mainstay. Troy once caught up to 100 animals in a single day, including raccoons, bobcats, muskrats, and even wolves. As prices fell, he donated most of his traps but held onto a few to teach future generations.

At age 16 or 17, he began cutting cypress and hauling logs to local mills, often splitting profits in barter agreements. He even worked construction during lean years, filling in for a friend’s crew. While those jobs took him away from the swamp, they also showed his flexibility and determination.

Troy’s big break came when the Louisiana alligator season reopened in 1982. Starting with just a few tags, he steadily expanded his operation—eventually managing up to 860 permits in a season. His baiting strategy—intentionally rotting poultry or meat in the sun—attracted large gators and gave him an edge over traditional methods. Unlike others, he invested in professional cleaning, knowing that improperly prepared gator meat could turn customers away.

He didn’t learn these skills from books or training programs—they came from experience, trial, and a deep relationship with the land. As others left the industry, Troy stayed. By the time Swamp People producers approached him, he was already a respected figure in the swamp.

Choot ‘Em to Fame: The Rise of Swamp People and a Cajun Star

Troy Landry’s journey into television began much like the rest of his life—deep in the swamps of Pierre Part. In 2010, a production crew arrived with plans to film a documentary about Louisiana’s alligator hunters. They followed Troy through the bayous, observing his practiced rhythm on the water, his encyclopedic knowledge of the swamp, and his unmistakable Cajun charm. What was meant to be a single documentary quickly evolved into a full-fledged reality series. When Swamp People premiered on the History Channel later that year, Landry emerged as its breakout star.

Clad in his signature striped polo and known for his unforgettable battle cry—“Choot ‘em!”—Troy became the face of the show. His no-nonsense approach to hunting, deep respect for nature, and light-hearted humor struck a chord with viewers across the country. The show didn’t just entertain; it introduced millions to the complexities of Cajun culture and the realities of alligator hunting. As of April 2025, Swamp People is airing its 16th season, set to conclude this month.

Fame, however, never pulled Troy away from the water. Each season, he continued hauling in over 300 alligators, often using the same baiting techniques and boat routes he relied on long before the cameras arrived. He reminded fans that nothing had really changed—except that now, there was a camera in the boat.

The show’s growing popularity had ripple effects beyond television. Restaurants across the country began featuring gator dishes like fried tail, grilled ribs, and sauce piquante. While meat demand rose, the price of hides remained relatively flat. On screen, Troy occasionally gave names to especially fierce gators—like “Tree Breaker,” who snapped a thick willow limb, or “T-Rex,” who nearly overturned a boat. Still, he explained that most gators were subdued by the time he reached them. Only one in 15 or 20 ever put up a real fight.

Filming, of course, came with its challenges. Setting up dramatic shots often slowed the hunt, and long days were made longer by retakes and waiting on camera crews. But the trade-off was worth it. The platform gave Troy the chance to support causes close to his heart—like Relay for Life, Shriners Hospitals for Children, and organizations for wounded veterans. Though he’s regularly flooded with appearance requests, Troy chooses events that create real impact for the community.

His television presence soon expanded. From 2020 to 2025, Troy co-led Swamp People: Serpent Invasion, a gripping spin-off that documented his efforts to eliminate invasive Burmese pythons from Florida’s Everglades. In 2018, he took center stage in Swamp Mysteries with Troy Landry, a six-part series exploring regional legends and predator threats throughout the South. He even made a guest appearance on The Queen Latifah Show in 2014, further solidifying his place in American pop culture.

Troy Landry Net Worth

Troy Landry has seamlessly blended his deep-rooted Cajun heritage with entrepreneurial ventures that celebrate Louisiana’s rich cultural and culinary traditions. With an estimated net worth of over $2 million, Landry has strategically diversified his income through hunting, television, seafood, hospitality, and merchandise ventures. While many recognize him as the “King of the Swamp” for his alligator hunting prowess, Landry’s business endeavors extend far beyond the bayou, encompassing a crawfish harvesting operation, a family-owned gas station, a seafood restaurant, and a widely recognized merchandise brand.

Television Earnings: “Swamp People”

Troy Landry’s role on the History Channel’s “Swamp People” has been a major contributor to his public fame and financial success. While exact figures are not publicly confirmed, it is estimated that reality television leads on long-running cable series like Swamp People can earn anywhere between $10,000 to $25,000 per episode, depending on their seniority and screen time. Given Landry’s status as one of the most recognizable faces of the show since its inception in 2010, his earnings from the show likely represent a substantial portion of his net worth.

Crawfish Harvesting: A Family Tradition

Beyond the adrenaline-filled alligator hunting season, Landry dedicates a significant portion of the year to crawfish harvesting. This practice is not merely a business for Landry but a continuation of a family tradition that spans generations. Engaging in crawfish harvesting allows him to maintain a connection to the swamps and bayous that have been integral to his family’s livelihood. While there’s no confirmed public record of the official start date, Landry has mentioned spending approximately nine months of the year fishing for crawfish—contributing substantially to his annual income and net worth.

Hole ‘N Da Wall Seafood: Upholding Culinary Excellence

In 2019, Landry’s son, Jacob Landry, along with his wife Lyndsi, acquired Hole ‘N Da Wall Seafood, a beloved grab-and-go crawfish establishment in Port Vincent, Louisiana. Recognizing the establishment’s cherished status within the community, Jacob and Lyndsi committed to preserving its original recipes and methods. Their dedication bore fruit when, in 2021, Hole ‘N Da Wall Seafood clinched the title in Louisiana Weekend’s Battle of the Best Crawfish competition, a testament to their commitment to quality and tradition.

Duffy’s Shell Station: A Community Hub

Established around 1965 by Troy’s parents, Duffy and Myrtle Landry, Duffy’s Shell Station began as a bait shop catering to local fishermen. Over time, it expanded its offerings to include a wide range of goods and services, becoming a full-service gas station and a central gathering place in Pierre Part, Louisiana. The station has been prominently featured in “Swamp People,” often showcasing the Landry family’s alligator hauls. In November 2022, Troy’s son, Jacob Landry, and his wife, Lyndsi, took over the business, transforming it into a sporting goods store that continues to serve the community and attract visitors from around the world.

Landry’s Seafood Restaurant: Authentic Cajun Cuisine

Since 1972, the Landry family has operated Landry’s Seafood Restaurant in Pierre Part, offering authentic Cajun cooking. This family-run establishment has been passed down through three generations, maintaining its commitment to quality and tradition. The restaurant has garnered positive reviews for its delicious food and friendly staff, further cementing the Landry family’s reputation in the local culinary scene.

Choot ‘Em Merchandise: Capitalizing on Catchphrases

Troy Landry’s signature phrase, “Choot ‘Em,” became a hallmark of his persona on “Swamp People.” Recognizing its popularity, he launched a merchandise line featuring the catchphrase on various items, including apparel and accessories. This venture not only capitalized on his television fame but also allowed fans to connect with the show’s culture. However, in 2012, Landry filed a lawsuit against several companies for unauthorized use of his trademarked phrases, underscoring his commitment to protecting his brand. The success of the merchandise brand has further contributed to his estimated $2 million net worth.

Sharing Cajun Cuisine with the Masses

Troy Landry’s passion for Cajun cuisine extends beyond his businesses. He actively participates in events and media that showcase Louisiana’s culinary delights. For instance, he collaborated with Mercury Marine in a feature titled “Cook Your Catch: Crawfish Boil with Troy and Jacob Landry,” where they demonstrated the art of preparing a traditional crawfish boil, offering viewers a taste of authentic Cajun cooking.

Personal LIfe

A Love Anchored in the Bayou: Inside Troy and Bernita Landry’s Enduring Marriage

Troy Landry, the rugged and revered star of Swamp People, is not only known for his prowess in the Louisiana swamps but also for the deep-rooted values he upholds in his personal life. Troy has built a life that reflects his resilience, commitment, and love for family—qualities that have made him a beloved figure both on and off the screen.

At the heart of Troy’s life is his longtime partner and wife, Bernita Landry. Born on July 16, 1958, Bernita has been a steady force beside him since they married on September 26, 1981. Their marriage has spanned over four decades, a testament to their enduring bond and shared vision for the future. Early in their marriage, the couple lived in a humble trailer on a three-acre plot of land. For more than 30 years, that trailer was home—a symbol of simplicity, determination, and unwavering togetherness.

Troy and Bernita spent years working toward a shared vision: building a wooden home that would reflect their values and connection to the land. After decades of hard work and financial discipline, that dream became a reality. Their cozy, all-wooden house sits on a sliver of high ground along a two-lane highway between Baton Rouge and Morgan City, on Mike Street in their hometown of Pierre Part, Louisiana. The 1,860-square-foot home, as Bernita confirmed in an interview with Louisiana Life, was completed just in time for Christmas in 2011.

Troy began harvesting cypress wood from the swamp as a teenager, gradually collecting it over the years—wood that would eventually be used to help build the family’s dream home. In a 2011 interview with TV Tango, he recalled pulling out his first cypress at age 16 or 17 and bringing it to a local lumber yard, where they processed it for free in exchange for half the supply. While it’s unclear if that deal extended to all the wood used in the home, it marked an important step in bringing their vision to life. The final product is a rustic haven made entirely of wood—”not one single sheet of sheet rock,” as Troy proudly stated. Fully insulated and thoughtfully designed, the house represents more than just craftsmanship; it’s a testament to the Landrys’ commitment, heritage, and love for the swamp they call home.

Bernita had once encouraged Troy to buy his grandparents’ old house, but he remained committed to building something from scratch using materials he had gathered with his own hands—a home rooted in purpose, memory, and intention.

In July 2023, the Landrys offered a rare, candid look into their private life during a brunch interview with Friends ‘n Mimosas, filmed in Pierre Part. Sitting side by side, they answered light-hearted quiz-style questions about each other’s quirks and habits. Troy revealed his fondness for dark chocolate with almonds, while Bernita teased him about his tendency to accumulate odds and ends around the house. When asked what he’d save first in a fire, Troy didn’t hesitate—“Bernita,” he said, without missing a beat.

Though often out of the spotlight, Bernita has long been a stabilizing force behind Troy’s adventures. A former schoolteacher and publicist for the History Channel, she’s played a quiet but vital role in supporting both the family and the show’s success. In the same 2023 interview, she admitted that she still feels anxious every time Troy heads into the swamp—especially knowing he often skips wearing a life jacket. Yet she never tries to stop him. Their partnership, she said, is built on trust and mutual independence—two qualities that have helped their marriage thrive despite the risks and unpredictability of swamp life.

Together, Troy and Bernita have raised three sons. Bernita brought a son from a previous relationship into the marriage—Brandon Hotard, born on November 2, 1976—and the couple later welcomed two biological sons: Jacob Landry, born on December 27, 1983, and Chase Landry, born on April 25, 1989.

The Landry family’s legacy continues to grow through the next generation. Jacob and his wife, Lyndsi Landry, have two sons: Ridge Adam Landry, born in June 2011, and Kase Landry, born in 2015. Chase has a daughter, Riley Blake Landry, born on March 18, 2017. Brandon, who lives in Berwick, Louisiana, expanded the family tree with three children of his own. He has two daughters from a previous relationship—Rayne, born in July 2002, and Miley, born in April 2007—and a son, Crue Hotard, born on July 13, 2024, with his wife Sheli Lynn Pavlick (now Sheli Hotard), whom he married in December 2020.

Health Challenges and Family Resilience

Troy Landry has experienced multiple health challenges in recent years. In 2021, Landry began suffering from severe back pain. Medical evaluations revealed a bulging disc, a condition commonly associated with age-related spinal degeneration. To address the issue and restore his mobility, he underwent back surgery in November 2021.

In 2022, Landry faced another serious medical diagnosis—prostate cancer. On June 1, 2022, he publicly shared on Facebook that he had undergone surgery to remove his prostate, which he described as being “ate up with cancer.” The operation was performed by Dr. Alexander and his team, whom Landry praised for their care. He expressed hope of returning home soon and emphasized his determination to recover in time for the upcoming gator hunting season.

By late August or early September 2022, Landry had resumed his regular outdoor activities, including alligator hunting. He returned to filming for the show, and appeared in “Swamp People” Season 14, which premiered on January 5, 2023. He was featured in Episode 1, titled “Gator War,” marking his full return to the series following his recovery.

Beyond his personal health struggles, Landry’s family has been contending with a serious medical condition affecting his grandson, Crue. The child was born with biliary atresia, a rare and life-threatening liver disorder. In early 2025, Crue was placed on the transplant list. The Landry family has since used their platform to raise awareness about organ donation and to seek support for Crue’s treatment and associated medical expenses.

As of 2025, Troy Landry remains an active participant in the Louisiana gator hunting community and continues his role on “Swamp People.” Despite undergoing multiple surgeries and supporting his family through ongoing health issues, Landry has maintained a steady presence both in the public eye and on the swamp.

Physical Traits

Troy Landry is approximately 5 feet 8 inches (1.77 meters) tall and weighs around 195 pounds (88 kilograms). He has blue eyes and brown hair. He is frequently seen wearing simple clothing and a cap. He speaks with a thick Cajun accent and is known for using the catchphrase “Choot ’em!” while hunting alligators.

Troy Landry Wiki Bio: Quick Facts

Field	Details
Full Name	Troy Landry
Date of Birth	June 9, 1960
Age	64 (as of 2025)
Birthplace	Pierre Part, Louisiana, United States
Nationality	American
Ethnicity	Cajun (French descent)
Language	English, Cajun French
Profession	Alligator Hunter, Television Personality, Businessman
Known For	Swamp People (History Channel, since 2010)
Catchphrase	“Choot ’em!”
Net Worth	Estimated $2 million+
Spouse	Bernita Landry (married since September 26, 1981)
Children	Brandon Hotard, Jacob Landry, Chase Landry
Grandchildren	Ridge Adam Landry, Kase Landry, Riley Blake Landry, Rayne, Miley, Crue Hotard
Residence	Pierre Part, Louisiana
Home	All-wood house built with harvested cypress, completed in 2011
Notable Shows	Swamp People, Swamp Mysteries with Troy Landry, Serpent Invasion
Business Ventures	Crawfish harvesting, Duffy’s Shell Station, Landry’s Seafood Restaurant, Hole ’N Da Wall Seafood
Merchandise	“Choot ’Em” apparel and accessories
Health	Underwent prostate cancer surgery (publicly confirmed)
Advocacy	Supports Relay for Life, Shriners Hospitals, and veterans’ causes

References:

https://youtu.be/CueP3E26__s https://youtu.be/LiCB8w_Ee0c http://www.tvtango.com/news/detail/id/324/exclusive-interview-with-troy-landry-of-swamp-people https://www.louisianalife.com/home-swamp-people-at-home/ https://www.gigwise.com/troy-landry-house-pierre-part-home/