Fishing in Grand Isle, Louisiana: Kayak, Shore & Pier Spots

Grab your rods, lures and bait for first-class fishing in Grand Isle, Louisiana. The state’s only inhabited barrier island is a haven for anglers with more than 280 species and a year-round fishing season. The island is small, about 8 square miles, but the fishing is epic.

Best Fishing Spots in Grand Isle, Louisiana 

Leave the loud motor behind — here’s where to fish in Grand Isle without a boat. A favorite spot for anglers is Elmer’s Island, the adjacent barrier island with a state wildlife refuge and public beach that’s just on the other side of the Valence Memorial Bridge. Find another top spot, Grand Isle State Park, on the eastern tip with a fishing pier and close to the island’s main marina. Use its launch areas to get paddle crafts into the fish-filled lagoons and marshes. Use local outfitters to schedule angler experiences in other nearby spots like Isle Grande Terre, Beauregard Island, Fifi Island and in Bayou Rigaud. 

Pier & Shore Fishing in Grand Isle 

Cast a line along miles of stunning shorelines and from numerous public piers at spots picked specifically for their amazing fishing. Enjoy four public fishing piers — Old Caminada Bridge and Grand Isle fishing piers on the western tip of the island, Grand Isle State Park Pier at the eastern tip and the ADA-compliant Smith Lane Public Fishing Pier in Bayou Rigaud.

If you’re looking for a beach and fishing day in one, you’re in luck! Grand Isle Beach is a public space that stretches over 7 miles along the Gulf with over 20 beach access lanes to the sandy shores, while Grand Isle State Park provides another mile of sandy bliss. Make sure to read signs and check online for areas where fishing is not allowed. 

Kayak Fishing in Grand Isle 

Great fishing abounds at the numerous marsh islands, rock jetty structures and an artificial reef. The reef sits a short paddle away from the public kayak launch at the end of Ludwig Lane and is marked by signs and PVC poles. Both ends of the island have passes that flow directly to the Gulf — Caminada to the west and Barataria to the east. Barataria Pass sees a lot of commercial fishing vessels, but Caminada Pass offers excellent kayak angling along the bridge to the island, rocky shorelines and access across the pass to Elmer’s Island. Paddling from island to island provides virtually unlimited fishing. Reach out to local outfitters like Bent Rod Fishing Charters to rent fishing gear or adventure companies like Bayou Adventure for kayak rentals. 

Popular Fish Species in Grand Isle Waters 

Angling around Grand Isle attracts fishermen year-round. Inshore waters are teeming with speckled trout and redfish, two of the area’s most popular game fish. These species thrive in the island’s bays, marshes and surf zones, where anglers use everything from live bait to artificial lures. During the warmer months, shark fishing becomes a major attraction, with blacktip and bull sharks patrolling nearshore waters. Flounder are another prized catch, especially in the fall, when they travel during their migration. Offshore, anglers may encounter tripletail, an odd but highly sought-after fish. Grand Isle offers seasonal variety and consistent action that keeps both locals and visitors happy.

Fishing Tips for First-Time Visitors 

Preparation is key to making the most of your fishing experience around Grand Isle. Start by fishing in the early-morning or late evening hours, when fish like speckled trout and redfish are most active, especially during moving tides. Wear light, sun-protective clothing; pack motion sickness tablets, if needed; and bring a small cooler for your catch. Live shrimp and bait fish are locals’ go-to for baiting, but artificial lures work just as well for trout, redfish and flounder. Booking a fishing charter is one of the best ways for first-time visitors to explore Grand Isle’s fish-filled waters. 

Fishing Licenses & Regulations for Grand Isle 

If you are 18 years or older, you must purchase a basic fishing license to fish recreationally anywhere in Louisiana, while many coastal destinations require anglers to purchase a Saltwater Fishing License. If you plan to do offshore fishing, a Recreational Offshore Landing Permit (ROLP) is required but free of charge. Be sure to check local fishing regulations and size limits before heading out and consider chatting with a local bait shop for up-to-date advice on what’s biting. 

Find more information on licenses and regulations by visiting the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website.

Learn about other epic fishing spots here, things to do in the Grand Isle area here, and highlights of other outdoor activities in Louisiana here.

Fishing in Grand Isle Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I fish in Grand Isle without a boat?

You can fish from Grand Isle's public piers, beaches or Elmer's Island without a boat.

What fish are popular in Grand Isle, Louisiana?

Redfish, speckled trout, flounder and black drum are commonly caught in Grand Isle's waters.

Are there kayaking fishing rentals in Grand Isle?

Yes, local outfitters offer kayak rentals and guided tours for anglers.