From our lakes and marshes to the deep blue waters of the Gulf, experience Louisiana's world-class fishing and learn why we're called Sportsman's Paradise.
In Louisiana, fishing isn’t simply a hobby — it’s a way of life, as intertwined with our culture as Cajun music and gumbo. Pick a place on the map, and you’re almost guaranteed to find a spot where memories are made and fresh catches are reeled in. From the pier to the plate, Louisiana is an angler’s dream destination.
That may sound boastful, but it’s true. What do you expect from a state — nicknamed Sportsman’s Paradise — that has 77,000 miles of coastline (more than just about any other state), the largest manmade lake in the South and menu items like catfish po-boys and crawfish étouffée?
Besides its importance to Louisiana’s economy and culture, fishing is also a visitor-favorite way to enjoy the state. Novice anglers and pros alike can cast a line anywhere from state parks to bayous and the rich Gulf waters that made Louisiana one of the nation’s top charter fishing spots.
So load up the tackle box and come aboard. Louisiana’s waters await.
Louisiana's Fishing Seasons
Louisiana fishing seasons offer year-round opportunities for visitors, with peak action varying by species. Redfish thrive year-round, speckled trout peak spring through fall, flounder shine in late summer, and bass and crappie are best in spring. Offshore species follow federally regulated Gulf seasons. Check the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website for up-to-date information.
Fish Species in Louisiana Waters
Louisiana waters offer exceptional diversity for visitors. Coastal anglers commonly catch redfish, speckled trout, flounder, sheepshead, black drum and offshore species like snapper, cobia, amberjack, mahi-mahi and tuna near Gulf reefs and platforms.
Freshwater lakes, rivers and bayous produce largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish and abundant catfish, while Louisiana’s brackish transition zones can deliver both freshwater and saltwater catches in a single trip.
Best Gear & Techniques for Louisiana Fishing
Louisiana anglers fishing marshes and bayous often use spinning or baitcasting rods for redfish and speckled trout. Popular techniques include popping corks, topwater lures and jig heads worked around grass beds, oyster reefs and shallow ponds.
In lakes, rivers and offshore Gulf waters, the fishing gear you need varies by the species you want to catch. Bass anglers use jigs and crankbaits, while offshore fishing requires heavier tackle and live bait near reefs and platforms.
Local Louisiana Fishing Guides & Charters
You can book Louisiana fishing guides and charters in coastal destinations like Venice, Grand Isle, Cocodrie and Hopedale, or near popular freshwater lakes. View fishing resources here or get recommendations from marinas and bait shops in the area you want to fish. Many charters provide fishing gear, safety equipment and local expertise.
Most visitors must purchase a Louisiana fishing license before fishing in freshwater or saltwater. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries issues licenses and sets regulations such as size limits, possession limits and seasonal closures.
Trip Ideas for Fishing in Louisiana
Frequently Asked Questions About Fishing in Louisiana
What are popular spots for freshwater fishing in Louisiana?
Anglers looking for freshwater trophies should flock to inland locations like Toledo Bend Reservoir, Lake D'Arbonne, Caney Lake and Lake Claiborne to fish the many freshwater bayous, rivers and streams throughout Louisiana.
What are popular spots for saltwater fishing in Louisiana?
If you're wanting to catch saltwater fish, head to coastal destinations like Grand Isle, Venice, the Lower Mississippi Delta or Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge, or to the brackish waters of Lake Pontchartrain in the New Orleans area.
What are popular fish to catch in Louisiana?
Popular freshwater fish in Louisiana include largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, white bass, bluegill, paddlefish and bowfin. Louisiana's popular saltwater catches include redfish, speckled trout, flounder, sheepshead, drum, tarpon, gulf snapper and king mackerel.