Digging Deeper since 1945.
Mike Hooks is a fourth-generation, family-owned dredging contractor serving the Gulf Coast for nearly 80 years. From navigation maintenance to coastal restoration, our legacy is built on safe operations, precise workmanship, and a commitment to doing the right thing—every time.
Our Story: A Legacy of Digging Deeper
Mike Hooks Sr. founded this company in 1945 with one small dredge, a determined work ethic, and the belief that a contractor should stand behind its work. Over the decades, that simple philosophy shaped a family legacy—and an enduring reputation—across the Gulf states.
As the years passed, the company expanded from local dredging work to major federal and private-sector projects. Each generation strengthened the foundation laid before them, adding modern equipment, new technologies, and a dedication to safe, high-quality production. What began as a single-dredge operation has grown into one of the Gulf’s most trusted names in navigation maintenance, marsh creation, coastal restoration, emergency response, and integrated surveying.
The tools and technology have changed. The coast has changed.
But our commitment to our people, our clients, and the communities we serve has never wavered.
Our Values — The Mike Hooks Way
At Mike Hooks, values aren’t slogans—they’re daily expectations on every dredge, every jobsite, and in every office.
Integrity In Every Yard
We stand behind our work and deliver what we promise. No shortcuts, no surprises.
Safety Without Compromise
Every person goes home safe. That’s the standard. That’s the culture.
Pride in Craftsmanship
Dredging is a skill, a trade, and an art. We honor it by doing things the right way.
Solutions, Not Problems
We don’t just identify challenges—we solve them, anticipating issues before they impact a project.
Taking Care of Our People
Our team is our greatest asset. We invest in training, growth, and the long-term careers of the people who choose to work with us.
What Sets Us Apart?
Decades of experience have taught us one thing: excellence isn’t an accident. It’s the result of digging deeper—into quality, into safety, and into every detail that matters.
Digging Deeper Into Quality
High-quality work starts with high-quality planning. Our integrated dredging, surveying, and QC workflows ensure accuracy from the first stakeout to the final pay survey.
Digging Deeper Into Safety
We combine generational field knowledge with modern safety systems and training. Every crew member is empowered to speak up, stop work, and support a safety-first environment.
Digging Deeper Into Expertise
Our team brings a rare combination of institutional knowledge, hands-on experience, and technological capability—allowing us to execute efficiently and solve complex challenges in the field.
Digging Deeper Into Reliability
Clients rely on us because we show up ready, we communicate clearly, and we deliver consistent results, even under tight timelines or tough conditions.
Meet the People Behind the Work
Behind every project is a team of leaders, engineers, surveyors, and field operators who take pride in their craft. Whether they’re on a cutterhead at 2 a.m. or reviewing QC data in the office, our people are the reason clients return year after year.
The Mike Hooks Milestones
Nearly 80 years of progress, innovation, and coastal stewardship.
1945
Company founded by Mr. Mike Hooks.
1955
Company moved to the current location and was officially incorporated in 1957. The 10-acre yard is conveniently positioned off the Calcasieu Ship Channel in Westlake, LA. With access to the Calcasieu River and Intracoastal Waterway, Hooks’ fleet of dredges can quickly mobilize to any point along the Gulf Coast.
1950s – 1980s
Fleet expands; operations grow across Louisiana and Texas.
1990s
Introduction of advanced cutterhead technology and expanded federal contracting.
2000s
Integrated Survey & QC division launched
2010s
Modernization of fleet and expansion into large-scale coastal restoration work.
2020s
Major investments in equipment, digital systems, safety programs, and workforce development.
One thing has remained constant: the belief that the best work is done with pride, purpose, and integrity.
Strong Roots. Stronger Future.
Our work protects communities, restores ecosystems, and keeps America’s waterways open for commerce. From emergency response to long-term restoration, we approach every project with the same dedication that has guided us for generations.
We honor our past by continuing to build a stronger, safer, more resilient coast—one yard at a time.
Ready to Start Your Project?
We’re Here to Help.