Exhibit (23) INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements of Hancock Holding Company on Form S-8 (No. 2-99863) and on Form S-3 (No. 33-31782) of our report dated January 18, 2000 incorporated by reference in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1999. DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP New Orleans, Louisiana March 27, 2000
