The Bayou State, the Pelican State, or just simply the Sportsman's Paradise – whatever you decide to call it, Louisiana is definitely one of the top sportfishing destinations on the Gulf Coast. Located in the southwestern part of the state, on the west shore of Calcasieu Lake, Hackberry embodies the best of the best that the Creole State has to offer. Even the most hardcore anglers can find a challenge here. Come spend a little time in Hackberry, LA fishing the waters that locals call the "Speckled Trout Capital of the World."
Hackberry Fishing Spots
Shallows, mangroves, bays, canals, brackish lakes, and of course, the great Gulf of Mexico – the list of productive fisheries in the area will impress any angling enthusiast. Hackberry fishing is usually synonymous with exploring Calcasieu Lake, Black Lake, and the Gulf, but this is just the beginning. Hackberry fishing charters might also take you to test the bite on the Calcasieu Ship Channel, Lake Charles, Intercoastal Canal, West Cove, Prien Lake, and Moss Lake. You'll be targeting "The Holy Trinity:" Redfish, Trout, and Flounder, but there's plenty of other fish in these prolific waters, as well. You can also go after Sheepshead, Tripletail, and Cobia, along with a variety of freshwater species. You just need to know where to look, or simply book a trip with some of the experienced local captains.
Calcasieu Lake
Hackberry fishing wouldn't be what it is without Calcasieu Lake, also known as “the Big Lake” among locals. Surrounded by marshland, dotted with oyster reefs, and famous for its trophy Speckled Trout, this brackish lake measures around 80 square miles and averages 4–6 feet in depth. Calcasieu Lake is a multiple Trout record-holder – three out of 10 Louisiana Trout records originated here. Specks on the lake can often weigh 5–8 pounds, but 9–11 lb specimens are not uncommon.
Large schools of Redfish can be found in abundance, along with delicious Flounder. Brown and white shrimp are inhabitants of the lake as well. Redfishing is incredible throughout the year and Flounder are usually caught during the same trips. Apart from these species, Calcasieu Lake will give you the chance to come face-to-gills with Sheepshead, Cobia, Black Drum, and Tripletail. Whether you're focusing on the marshes, intercoastal areas, or oil rig hot spots, Calcasieu Lake has you covered.
Black Lake
Located only 4.7 miles west of Hackberry, Black Lake is another good option, especially if you want to try something completely different compared to Calcasieu Lake. Unlike chasing after Reds, Specks, and Flounder in most of the Calcasieu Estuary fisheries, Black Lake will have you focusing on other species. Here you'll find Striped, Smallmouth, and Largemouth Bass, along with Walleye, Catfish, Rainbow Trout, Pike, Perch, and much more. Spinning, fly fishing, and baitcasting are the most popular techniques on the lake – choose your weapon and get ready to fight. Just make sure that the stream is open for fishing before booking a trip.
Gulf of Mexico
In addition to its incredible inland fisheries, Hackberry offers Gulf fishing trips as well. Before passing the marches, Calcasieu Ship Channel enters the Gulf at Calcasieu Pass, south of Calcasieu Lake. Lined with a 2 mile-long stretch of rock jetties, the Pass attracts schools of fish, especially during summer. Monster Trout can be caught in the Gulf during mid and late summer, moving into colder waters. Fishing for them is especially productive near oil platforms. Redfish and Flounder can also be found in these waters, along with Cobia, Tripletail, and more. And if you want to venture even further out into the Gulf, the possibilities are endless.
Hackberry Fishing Tips
- Most of the Hackberry fishing guides use both artificial and live bait. When it comes to live bait, shrimps are especially popular, along with croakers, pinfish, and mullets.
- If you want to focus on catching the trophy Trout this area is famous for, you'll need bigger bait than usual. Specks over 3–4 pounds will usually be hungry for fish rather than shrimp. Pinfish, menhaden, mullets, croakers, and even juvenile Trout is what they'll go for. Topwater baits are also a good option. Pro tip: look for schools of big Redfish when searching for big Trout – they’re usually found swimming nearby.
- Light tackle is almost the default option in the area. Depending on the targeted species and the fishery, you can try your hand at spinning, fly fishing, drifting, jigging, popping, and bottom fishing.
Need to Know
Regulations
A Basic Fishing License is required for all fishermen age 16 and older who want to keep their catch. In addition to that, you'll need a LA Saltwater License if you decide to go after saltwater species.
Budget
If you want to go on a full-day trip, eight hours on the water will cost you $600–$750 for a party of four. Half-day trips take 4–5 hours and will usually make your wallet $500–$550 lighter.
Getting There
Located three-and-a-half hours from New Orleans and two-and-a-half hours from Houston, Hackberry is easily accessible by car via I-10. You can also use Louisiana State Highway 27 if you're coming from the direction of Holly Beach on the south or Sulphur on the north. Flying in? Your best choice would be Lake Charles Regional Airport, located 33 miles from Hackberry. Your other option is Jack Brooks Regional Airport, located 68 miles away in Beaumont.
Whether you're looking to land that larger-than-life Trout or have an unforgettable day on the water with your family, you can't go wrong with Hackberry, LA fishing.