If you’re in Venice, LA chances are you want to go fishing. This little town is sometimes called “the end of the world,” due to the fact that it’s the very last settlement accessible by car on the Mississippi River. Others call it “Tuna Town” or the “Redfish Capital of the World” and we think those are much more fitting. Why? It’s simple – Venice, Louisiana fishing trips are unrivaled.
Its location, where the Mississippi River flows into the Gulf of Mexico, makes it one of the most productive fishing destinations in the world. There’s everything from trips out onto the open ocean, where every pelagic fish you can imagine lies in wait, to adventures in shallow waters stocked with gamey and delicious species. And don’t worry, we didn’t forget about those tasty bottom fish in the areas between.
Everywhere you turn there’s exciting fishing to be done. We’ll tell you how to make the most of it by highlighting some of the top fish species in Venice, as well as how and where you can catch them. We’ll also touch on seasonality and bagging limits so you can be sure you’re fishing within the law.
Best Fish to Catch in Venice, LA
There are a lot of fish to catch in Venice. Too many for us to include, in fact. Below, we’ve highlighted a couple of big game favorites, some unexpected inshore fish, and a few delicacies from the reefs and wrecks.
Yellowfin Tuna
Most offshore anglers come to Venice for one thing, and one thing only – Yellowfin Tuna. Not only can you hook into Yellowfins as close as 5 miles from shore, but it’s also one of a few places where you can catch these fish year-round. They still prefer colder water, however, so head down to Venice between December and March if you’re after a trophy.
To make the most of your time on the water, bring the right gear. Tunas are predatory fish that fight hard so belts, high test lines, and braided lines are a must. When choosing bait, go for fish that are in season. Herring, Mullet, and Menhaden are all good choices at different times of the year. Looking for a challenge? Casting with speed jigs and topwater poppers for smaller specimens can be thrilling.
Marlin
There’s a reason why Marlin are considered the ultimate catch. Anglers don’t go after them on account of their flavor, but for their hard-fighting nature. You’ll have to put your best foot forward to land a Marlin and a Venice, Louisiana fishing trip is one of the best places to do so. Blue and White Marlin are most commonly caught here that range anywhere from 60–400+ pounds in size.
Although Marlin fishing season technically runs from April to November, your best months for hooking a trophy are from June to October. Trolling is usually the most effective method for hooking these incredibly fast fish. Pair bait such as Tuna, Mackerel, or Squid with 300 lb fluorocarbon leader and watch the reels scream.
Grouper and Snapper
Don’t feel like making the long trek to offshore fishing grounds? Tasty table fare and an action-packed day of Venice, Louisiana fishing is still on the cards for you. Head to the inshore oil rigs, rock piles, or pumping stations and you’ll find delicious Grouper and Snapper.
There are tons of underwater structure in the waters surrounding Venice, attracting plenty of bottom fish looking to feed. If you’re visiting in the fall and winter, gear up with heavier tackle to hook Red and Black Grouper. Summertime is your one and only opportunity to go after delicious Red Snapper. You’ll be working deep depths to reel in all of these fish. Gearing up with a braided line will help you feel even the slightest strike.
Tarpon
Sure, you think of Florida when someone mentions Tarpon, but Louisiana is quickly becoming a hotbed for the monster “Silver Kings.” Venice is right on their migration route and big fish stock the inshore waters from July to September. And when we say big, we mean really big. Tarpon fishing in Venice can yield monsters weighing over 200 pounds.
Southwest Pass, the Empire Canal, and Grand Bayou make up an area commonly referred to as Louisiana’s “Tarpon Triangle.” In the summertime, the waters here are the perfect temperature and depth for trophy fish. Once you find a good spot, sight cast or troll with small bait fish or try to hook one on a fly.
Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Flounder
No Louisiana fishing list would be complete without the legendary inshore trio of Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Flounder. In Venice, you can target Redfish and Specks year-round, whereas Flounder is easiest to hook in the fall. Aside from each being delicious, all three of these fish give a great fight.
In fact, if you come across a “Bull” Redfish or “Gator” Trout you could have a battle on your hands that’s comparable to the big game action offshore. Bull Reds can reach 4 feet in length and weigh 60+ pounds, engaging all of your muscles and testing your skill. Gator Trout are rarer but equally thrilling. These fish measure around 30 inches and can weigh up to 15 pounds.
And So Much More!
We couldn’t do all the incredible fish you can catch here justice, so here are just a few more we couldn’t leave out. Alongside casting for Yellowfin Tuna and Marlin in the open ocean, you’ll also have the opportunity to hook Blackfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Swordfish, and Wahoo. Talk about a well-rounded list of pelagic fish!
The inshore and nearshore waters are just as exciting. Sheepshead, Black Drum, Tripletail, Catfish, and Mangrove Snapper are all cooler stockers you don’t want to miss. You’ll even find Largemouth Bass coming in from the Mississippi River.
How to Go Fishing in Venice, LA
Fishing is at the top of the list of things to do in Venice. There are a few different ways you can take advantage of what’s on offer in this angling mecca. We’ve highlighted some of the most popular fishing methods below.
Charter Boat Fishing
Hopping aboard a charter boat is the hands-down that best way to take advantage of Venice’s incredible fishing grounds. Big game fishing takes place between 30–100 miles offshore and overnight trips aren’t uncommon if you’re going after the likes of Yellowfin Tuna. To make the most of the deep blue waters, you’ll need a powerful vessel and a local captain.
This applies to you inshore anglers, too. Having an experienced Venice, Louisiana fishing guide on board is never a bad idea. A knowledgeable captain can help you navigate the maze of marshes, bayous, and canals and will ensure your day goes smoothly. What’s more, they’ll supply you with top-notch gear, bait or lures, and priceless tips only a local could share.
Party Boat Fishing
Charter boats in Venice can get pricey – especially if you’re planning on exploring areas further from the shore. A great, budget-friendly alternative is a party boat. You’ll share your experience with other passionate anglers while enjoying some of the perks of a private fishing charter including fishing gear and a local captain.
Although your captain may not be able to give you 1-on-1 attention, you’ll still get your hands on a few inshore and nearshore favorites. Having a grasp on the basics, like baiting your line and unhooking your catch, will help you maximize your time on board.
Shore Fishing
Venice can be very rewarding, even if you can’t get out on a boat. Set up along the banks or cast a line from the pier at Pilot’s Station East and you could go home with very full coolers. Redfish, Speckled Trout, Sheepshead, and Black Drum all make for excellent table fare that’s accessible to anglers across the board.
Venice, LA Fishing Spots
If we’re honest? Everywhere! Venice has access to many diverse environments, which is one of the main reasons it draws in so many anglers year after year. From the shorelines of the Mississippi River Delta to the open ocean, you can’t really go wrong. To get you started in finding your perfect spot, we’ve highlighted a few of our own.
- Midnight Lump: Located about 50 miles from shore, the Midnight Lump is actually the top of an underwater mountain. There is a range of depths here that attract a ton of bait fish, which means one thing is for certain – trophy Tuna, Wahoo, Marlin, and Mahi Mahi.
- Oil Rigs: The offshore oil rigs in Venice are located about 30 miles from shore. On any given day, you’ll find dozens of boats here hoping to score Yellowfin and Blackfin Tuna, Wahoo, Amberjack, and Grouper – to name a few.
- Delta National Wildlife Refuge: Located 6 miles southwest of Venice, Louisiana, fishing here is incredible. It’s home to an array of wildlife including Speckled Trout, Redfish, Flounder, Largemouth Bass, and Crappie. Just be sure to stay in the designated fishing areas and look out for seasonal closures.
- Tarpon Triangle: As we mentioned earlier, Southwest Pass, the Empire Canal, and Grand Bayou are where you want to be for huge summertime Tarpon. They’re not the only fish around here, though. You can cast lines for Black Drum, Redfish, Trout, and Sheepshead too.
- Breton Sound Islands: This popular inshore fishing spot sits where the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico meet. Within 30 minutes of departing from Venice, you’ll arrive and start your search for the Big Three, Sheepshead, and Spanish Mackerel. This is also a great spot to try out some wade fishing!
When to Go Fishing in Venice, LA
| Species | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yellowfin Tuna | Great | Great | Great | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Great | Great | Good | Good |
| Blackfin Tuna | Great | Great | Great | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Great | Great | Good | Good |
| Marlin | Weak | Weak | Weak | Weak | Good | Great | Great | Great | Good | Good | Weak | Weak |
| Red Snapper | Closed | Closed | Closed | Closed | Closed | Great | Great | Great | Closed | Closed | Closed | Closed |
| Redfish | Good | Good | Great | Great | Great | Good | Good | Good | Great | Great | Great | Good |
| Speckled Trout | Good | Good | Good | Great | Great | Great | Good | Great | Great | Great | Good | Good |
One of the best things about fishing in Venice is the fact that it’s a year-round sport. Another thing that Louisiana is known for is its liberal bag limits. There are exceptions to the rule, however, and open seasons are subject to change on a yearly basis. The limits for Specked Trout, for example, differ in specified areas of Cameron and Calcasieu parishes. As such, it’s always best to consult the LWF before heading out.
Venice, LA Fishing Regulations
You’re almost ready to get out on the water. The last thing left to cover is the basic fishing regulations. Below, we’ve highlighted some of the most important things to keep in mind for a safe and successful Venice, Louisiana fishing trip.
All anglers over the age of 16 are required to purchase a fishing license. This applies to anyone fishing from the shore, heading out in their own vessel, or boarding a fishing charter with a licensed captain. If you’re fishing south of the “saltwater line,” you’ll also need to pick up a Louisiana Saltwater License.
If you intend to keep fish including Tuna, Billfish, Swordfish, Red Snapper, Grouper, and Amberjack, you’ll also need to pick up an Offshore Landing Permit. For more information on different license types, check out our extensive guide.
Venice: A Sportfishing Paradise
One thing is for certain on a Venice, Louisiana fishing trip – you’re going to catch fish. With the rich waters of the Mississippi on the one hand and immense floating oil rigs and offshore canyons on the other, anglers heading out of Venice can catch almost anything they set their minds to.
If you want to learn more about fishing in Louisiana, read our full guide.
Have you had the opportunity to cast a line in Venice? Tell us about it– we love to hear from you!
