FishKillFlea It isn't called the "Sportsman's Paradise" for nothing. From the incredible offshore oil rigs to the deep bayou marshes and massive northern border lakes, a $17 Basic LA fishing license (with a $15 Saltwater add-on) is the best money an angler can spend.
The Coastal Marshes (Requires $32 Basic + SW License)
| Spot | Region | Species | Why Famous |
|---|---|---|---|
| Venice / Mississippi River Delta | Deep South | Redfish, Tuna, Tarpon | Known globally as the "Redfish Capital of the World" |
| Grand Isle | Coast | Speckled Trout, Redfish | Incredible barrier island with beach and pier access |
| Lake Pontchartrain | New Orleans | Speckled Trout | Massive estuary featuring the famous train bridge trestles |
The Freshwater Giants (Requires $17 Basic License)
| Water | Region | Species | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toledo Bend Reservoir | TX Border | Largemouth Bass | 181,000-acre reservoir regularly voted the #1 bass lake in America |
| Caney Creek Reservoir | North LA | Trophy Bass | Holds the state record Largemouth Bass (15.97 lbs!) |
| Henderson Swamp | Atchafalaya Basin | Sac-a-lait (Crappie) | Classic cypress swamp fishing |
Seasonal Guide
| Season | Best Targets | Prime Spots | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Bass Spawn | Toledo Bend, Caney | Sight fishing for massive bedding bass in March |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Yellowfin Tuna, Specks | Venice Offshore, Grand Isle | Running out to the midnight lump or floating oil rigs |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | Bull Redfish | Mississippi River Delta | Vast schools of 30lb+ bull reds pushing into the passes |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Sac-a-lait (Crappie) | Henderson Swamp | Deep water structure fishing in the bayous |
Neighboring: Texas for shared Toledo Bend access, Mississippi for northern/eastern borders, Arkansas to the north.
An LA Basic freshwater license is $17. See full costs or buy yours.