Landing Trophy Fish in Louisiana
Great year-round fishing is just one of the rewards Louisiana holds outdoor enthusiasts.
If you live in a climate that ranges from cool to cold — or even if you don't — consider escaping winter and packing your gear for a Louisiana fishing trip. Whether you're looking for productive freshwater fishing grounds or the chop and spray of the salt, you'll find the perfect fit in our rivers, bayous, clear lakes and swamplands, or the wide-open waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
January, February and March are excellent times to go saltwater fishing with one of our many charter fishing guides for an exciting day of hauling in trophy fish.
"A prime time for trophy tuna and wahoo is January through March. That's when you get your best shot at yellowfin tuna weighing more than 200 pounds and wahoo weighing more than 100 pounds," says Capt. Hunter Caballero of Paradise Outfitters in Venice, Louisiana.
Choose your departure point from dozens of Gulf Coast options, from Lake Charles to Vermilion Bay, Barataria Bay, Port Fourchon, Grand Isle and Breton Sound. Your guide and charter boat captain will take you into the best waters and help you all the way — from teaching novices how to handle a rod and reel to coaching experienced fishermen on advanced techniques.
Fishing day-trips in Louisiana from coastal marinas hold tons of promise for sport fishermen. Along with yellowfin tuna, set your sights on the mighty blue marlin, lightning-fast wahoo or colorful mahi-mahi. Certain times of the year are better for favorites such as red snapper, grouper, swordfish and amberjack. Just ask your guide what's biting
There's no doubt that hiring a guide will make the experience easier and more pleasurable than you can imagine — from cleaning your fish to entertaining you with stories of their favorite fishing experiences, all you have to do is show up!
Get an up-to-date list of licensed and insured charter captains at the Louisiana Charter Boat Association website.