Fishing in New Orleans offers an incredibly diverse and rewarding experience. New Orleans is an angler’s paradise with its unique position on the Gulf Coast and its abundance of bayous, lakes, and marshes. I’ve had the pleasure of fishing here over the years, and the combination of varied species, beautiful landscapes, and that classic Southern charm keeps me coming back.
Let’s dive into the top fishing spots I’ve found in and around New Orleans and explore some tips, techniques, and insights that have helped me make the most of my fishing trips.
fishing in New Orleans is City Park
City Park is one of the best places to start fishing in New Orleans. It’s accessible, filled with good fish, and has a family-friendly atmosphere. I’ve spent many afternoons here casting lines and catching bass, bluegill, and even catfish. The lagoons are serene, and for a park in the heart of the city, it offers an impressive variety of fish species.
My Tips:
- Lures and Bait: Soft plastic worms or live bait-like crickets work wonders here. Bass tend to respond well to these, especially in the warmer months.
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon is prime fishing time. With fewer people around, it’s peaceful, and the fish tend to be more active.
- Equipment: Since City Park has a lot of smaller fish, lighter tackle setups will get you far. This lets you feel every nibble and makes for a fun, challenging experience.
Lake Pontchartrain: A Vast Fishing Playground
Lake Pontchartrain is a fantastic place for saltwater fishing and offers a mix of both salt and freshwater fish due to its brackish waters. You can catch speckled trout, redfish, and flounder here, and sometimes even blue crabs if you’re lucky. One of my favorite areas to fish in Lake Pontchartrain is along the Seabrook Bridge. The bridges and piers along the lake provide plenty of room for anglers of all levels.
My Tips:
- Bait and Lures: For speckled trout and redfish, shrimp or small minnows as bait have proven to be most effective. Soft plastics in shrimp or crab colors also work well.
- Weather and Timing: Cloudy days often yield the best results for redfish and speckled trout. Tide times also play a crucial role; fishing during an incoming tide will bring in more saltwater fish.
- Special Gear: A medium-heavy rod and reel are perfect for tackling the bigger fish you might hook here. I also use a cast net to catch baitfish when I want to use fresh bait, which seems to make a difference with trout and flounder.
Bayou St. John: Perfect for Relaxed Fishing
Bayou St. John is an excellent spot if you’re looking for a relaxed day of fishing right in the city. The scenic, slow-moving water has made this one of my favorite spots when I want to fish without going far. You can catch catfish, bass, and sunfish here, making it an ideal spot for beginners or anyone wanting a slower pace.
My Tips:
- Best Bait: For bass and catfish, worms and small jigs have always served me well here. You can also try crankbaits, which are effective when the fish are actively feeding.
- Peak Fishing Times: The bayou is best fished in the early morning or late evening. During those times, you’ll avoid the midday heat and crowds.
- Fishing Technique: A simple casting technique is all you need. I like to take my time here, just casting and retrieving slowly. This spot is as much about relaxation as it is about catching fish.
Venice, Louisiana: A Fishing Paradise
A little further south of New Orleans, Venice is often called “The End of the World” because it’s where the Mississippi River meets the Gulf of Mexico. Venice is the ultimate fishing destination if you’re up for an adventure. It’s famous for offshore fishing, where I’ve caught tuna, mahi-mahi, and even the occasional marlin. Inshore, you’ll find redfish, speckled trout, and flounder in abundance.
My Tips:
- Bait and Lures: Live shrimp or minnows are excellent for inshore fishing, while squid and cut bait work well offshore.
- Guided Trips: I highly recommend going with a guide if it’s your first time here. Venice can be complex to navigate, and the experience of a local guide will make a big difference.
- Best Times: Fall and spring are prime fishing seasons in Venice. The water temperature and tide patterns during these times seem to bring out the big catches.
Hopedale and Delacroix: A Marsh Fishing Haven
For those who enjoy marsh fishing, Hopedale and Delacroix are like a dream come true. These spots are known for their massive populations of redfish and speckled trout. It’s all about the quiet marshes, and the fishing can be incredible. I’ve caught some of my largest redfish here, and it’s always an adventure navigating through the shallow waters.
My Tips:
- Effective Bait: Topwater lures work well in the mornings for redfish, especially during warmer months. Once the sun rises higher, switching to soft plastics and shrimp will keep you busy with bites.
- Seasonal Advantage: Fall is the best time here. Redfish seem to be everywhere, and they’re more active in the cooler temperatures.
- Use of a Kayak: This is one of my favorite places to fish from a kayak. The marshes are shallow, and kayaks let you move quietly without disturbing the fish.
Lake Catherine and the Rigolets: Gateway to the Gulf
Lake Catherine and the Rigolets provide another great fishing area with access to both freshwater and saltwater species. It’s a fantastic spot for fishing redfish, speckled trout, and flounder, and you get the thrill of fishing right where the marshes meet the Gulf. I often launch from Rigolets Marina, and the fishing out here is dynamic and rewarding.
My Tips:
- Bait Options: Live shrimp is your best friend in these waters, but I’ve also had success using artificial shrimp lures. The natural current here draws in plenty of fish, so I try to mimic the local baitfish.
- Fishing Conditions: Check the tides before heading out, as the fish move more during changing tides. An incoming tide brings more saltwater fish, while an outgoing tide brings them closer to the marsh.
- Safety Gear: These waters can get choppy quickly, so always bring a life jacket and check the weather in advance.
The Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge: Fishing with Nature
Fishing in the Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge is a unique experience. This protected area is an incredible place to enjoy nature, and it’s not uncommon to see alligators and various bird species while casting your line. Here, I’ve caught bass, crappie, and catfish. The landscape alone makes it worth the visit, and the fish are a bonus.
My Tips:
- Bait Choice: Live worms, crickets, and small jigs work great for the variety of fish here.
- Fishing Hours: Morning is best, both to catch fish and to avoid the midday heat. The calm waters in the early morning make for a peaceful experience.
- Conservation Note: As this is a wildlife refuge, follow all posted guidelines and clean up after yourself. Respecting the area ensures it will stay beautiful for years to come.
Final Thoughts on Fishing in New Orleans
New Orleans and its surrounding areas provide an angler with endless fishing possibilities. From city lagoons to wild marshlands, each spot has its unique charm and challenges. While each location requires a slightly different approach, one thing remains the same: the joy of being on the water, casting a line, and embracing the thrill of catching freshwater fishing and saltwater fishing.
My experiences have taught me that patience, a good sense of timing, and an understanding of the local fish behavior make all the difference. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, New Orleans’ fishing spots are ready to offer an unforgettable experience. So grab your rod, load up on bait, and get ready for some great fishing down in the Big Easy!
