Louisiana

There are countless reasons why as many as a million anglers go fishing in Louisiana year after year. A gracious host to over 3000 miles of shoreline, a winning selection of trophy game and some of the most liberal catch limits in the entire US,  Southern Louisiana is a neverending fisherman’s Mardi Gras. And that’s not even going into the jaw-dropping experience that’s Louisiana offshore fishing. Best of all, quality is right up there with quantity. It’s no wonder the state is known as the “Sportsman’s Paradise.”

Arrange a trip with one of the numerous Louisiana fishing charters that are active during the entire year and you’ll get a sense of what we’re talking about. Add to that the unrivaled variety of wildlife patrolling the lower Mississippi Delta or hiding among the oak and cypress trees, including dolphins, gators, pelicans, raccoons and many more, and you also got yourself a crash course in Louisiana’s unique marine and natural potential.

If we were to write about every single good fishing spot in the Bayou State, we’d end up with a 300-page doorstop. That’s why this guide will focus on only the absolute cream of the crop when it comes to LA fishing. One thing’s for sure, though - it’s really hard to go wrong when you come to Louisiana with an intent to catch some fish!

New Orleans is the undisputed capital of Louisiana inshore fishing. It’s one of those places where Redfish can be caught at literally any time of the year. Across its northern coast you’ll find Lake Pontchartrain, whose massive Speckled Trout will get your freezer filled up before you know it. For summer trips it’s always a good idea to head a couple of miles northeast to either Delacroix or Hopedale - both crawling with colossal Redfish, Black Drum, Sheepshead, and Trout. If freshwater fishing is your forte, no need to look farther than the City Park, which is packed with Largemouth Bass, Catfish, Perch, and more.

While Venice is also a first-class location for inshore fishing, that’s not the reason why anglers flock to it as much as they do. What makes Venice special is the fact you won’t find a better place to catch Yellowfin Tuna anywhere in the states. Located near the southernmost end of the Mississippi River, it’s one of the main hotspots for Louisiana offshore fishing charters. Apart from droves of Tuna being available year-round, it’s also a great place to boat some bottom feeders. If you’re in the area during Red Snapper season, be sure to take a trip to the closer oil rigs for a an experience to remember.

Sometimes unfairly sidelined in favor of better-known fishing locations like Venice, Grand Isle is Louisiana’s hidden jewel both for inshore and offshore fishing. Not only does it have Yellowfin tuna that can rival anything in Venice, but it also has a healthy population of other popular game fish such as Mahi Mahi and Blue and White Marlin. If you’re in the market for a 24-hour bluewater trip, this is the place for you! Inshore, the local marshes are absolutely brimming with the likes of Redfish, Trout, Flounder, and others.

If you find yourself near Louisiana’s southwest coast, be sure to visit Lake Charles for a good time angling. With Calcasieu Lake stretching for almost 40 miles, it’s small wonder why the locals refer to it as the “Big Lake.” Owing to deeper and colder water in certain parts, you’ll have no problems finding Trout and Redfish at any time of the year. Cobia and Tripletail are also no strangers to this part of the Gulf Coast, so there’s always something new around the corner.

If you decided to see for yourself the adventure that is Red fishing New Orleans, there are a couple of good ways to go about it. If you’re here during the colder winter months, nothing beats sight casting with lures. The waters will be crystal clear, and you’ll have an unforgettable time. These conditions are also perfect for bow fishing. Fly fishing is another excellent choice if you’re a fan. It’s very easy to find charters dedicated to fly excursions only, so don’t miss out!

On the other hand, if you’re more interested in what Louisiana deep sea fishing charters have to offer, you’ll be using live or dead bait for the most part. Depending on the season, anything from Menhaden and Blue Runner to Herring and Mullet should easily get the Tuna’s attention. Poppers and jigs will do a good job for smaller specimens. Be ready for an adrenaline-pumping experience in either case.

Anglers 16 years of age or older who take or possess fish in Louisiana waters must have a fishing license. All recreational anglers fishing south of the “saltwater line” for saltwater species will also need to have a Louisiana saltwater angler’s license.

The saltwater lines is how the state of Louisiana differentiates saltwater and freshwater fisheries. A rule of thumb is that anything south of the Intracoastal Waterway is a saltwater fishing area. An Offshore Landing Permit is required of all anglers, except those on a paid-for-hire trip where the captain possesses an Offshore Landing Permit.