If you are looking for excellent coastal fishing, try Southern Louisiana saltwater fishing, which is known as some of the best fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. In addition to an abundance of fish, Louisiana’s gulf coast features clear skies, sparkling waters and the satisfying ocean breeze.
The Louisiana coast is rampant with opportune, perfect pockets just waiting to be fished. A great place to get started is in the shallow water around Lake Pontchartrain near St. Tammany Parish. This region includes Chandeleur Sound and Lake Borgne, which are known for their tasty redfish and flounder populations. Just south of here lies Plaquemine’s Parish, which includes Empire, Buras and Venice. These areas provide access to saltwater flats and deep-water fishing, including the famous Midnight Lump. The Midnight Lump is the ideal place to lure in larger trophy fish like yellowfin tuna and mako sharks. Make note of the fishing seasons, noting that predator types of fish are unlikely to bite in the winter and early spring.
West of here lies the Calcasieu Estuary, nationally recognized and one of the world’s most productive fishing areas. Fishing in the surrounding gulf is a unique experience, as the waters are so filled with black drum, sheepshead, sand trout, ladyfish and croakers what you catch will always be a surprise. It is recommended that you hire a guide who can show you the right techniques and areas to fish in this area of Louisiana, to ensure you get the most out of the experience.
In the Gulf of Mexico, most of the species you will be targeting prefer deep waters, which requires you to take a boat offshore. However, for some species like redfish, you can take a rod and reel to the shore and catch them in the surf. You can fish from the beach, a bridge or a spot overlooking a jetty. Heading out offshore near the oil rigs and you will be able to catch snapper, bluefish, pompano, redfish, Spanish mackerel, tripletail, cobia, jack crevalle and shark.
The first time you head out on a fishing trip to Louisiana, you should hire a professional guide. A fishing guide will be familiar with the waters, know the best areas to target various types of fish and the best type of baits to use on them. One of the most favorite fish to catch for first timers is the redfish, also referred to some as the red drum. These species are fun to catch since they put up a good fight and are one of the most delicious fish to eat. Whatever you catch on your trip to Southern Louisiana, make sure to try your fish blackened as the locals prefer. This unique dish is sure to make your trip even more memorable.
Armed with the right equipment and knowing the right spots, Louisiana fishing can offer a wide variety of fish that will never disappoint an adventurous fisherman. Expect to catch a wide variety of fish and be prepared for some of the best, largest and most sought after trophy fish in the Louisiana Gulf Coast area.
