Hey there, fellow anglers! If you're itching to tangle with some serious speckled trout, you've come to the right place. Our half-day trip out of St. Bernard, Louisiana is the real deal for those looking to score big on these sought-after gamefish. We're talking early mornings, live bait, and the kind of fishing that'll have you hooked from the get-go. So grab your hat and sunscreen, 'cause we're about to dive into what makes this trip a can't-miss for any serious fisherman.
Picture this: You're up before the sun, sipping coffee as we motor out to the nearshore oil rigs. The air's salty, there's a hint of diesel, and the anticipation's building. We're on the hunt for speckled trout, and let me tell you, when these beauties are biting, it's non-stop action. Our 6-hour adventure kicks off at 5:30 AM sharp – yeah, it's early, but trust me, it's worth it when you're reeling in fish after fish. We've got room for two guests, so bring your buddy or make it a special one-on-one trip. Just remember, you'll need that Louisiana fishing license, and our deposit's non-refundable. But hey, once you're out there hauling in trout, you'll see why folks keep coming back year after year.
Alright, let's talk strategy. We're not just tossing lines and hoping for the best – we've got a game plan. Popping corks? You bet. Down rigging with live bait? That's our bread and butter. But here's the kicker – we adjust on the fly. Wind direction, tides, water clarity – it all factors in. Some days we're working the corks, making that 'pop' that drives trout crazy. Other times, we're down deep where the big boys hang out. And let me tell you, when you feel that thump on your line and the drag starts singing, you'll be grinning ear to ear. We provide all the gear, so don't sweat it if you're new to this. Just be ready to learn and land some lunkers.
Now, let's break down the stars of the show. First up, the speckled trout. These silver-sided beauties with their trademark spots are what we're really after. They're fighters, plain and simple. You'll find 'em schooling around the rigs, and when they're on, it's fish-on every cast. Best time to target 'em? Right when we're out there – May through August is prime time.
But don't sleep on the redfish. These copper-colored bruisers can show up any time, and when they do, hold on tight. They'll test your drag and your arms, especially the bull reds. Fall's usually best for these guys, but we see 'em year-round.
Black drum might not be the prettiest fish in the sea, but they're a blast to catch. They love hanging around structure, and when you hook one, it's like reeling in a truck. They're here all year, but spring's when they really shine.
Sheepshead, with their funky teeth and jailbird stripes, are the sneaky fighters of the bunch. They're structure-huggers too, and they'll steal your bait if you're not paying attention. Winter and early spring is when they're most active.
Last but not least, the southern flounder. These flatfish are ambush predators, and they're as tasty as they are fun to catch. Fall's your best bet for flounder, when they're moving to deeper waters. When you hook one, it's like reeling in a dinner plate – a delicious, hard-fighting dinner plate.
Look, I've been guiding these waters for years, and I'll tell you straight – there's nothing quite like the thrill of a bent rod and a screaming reel. But it's more than just the fish. It's about being out there when the sun's coming up, watching the water come alive. It's about the stories you'll tell, the photos you'll show off, and yeah, maybe even the fish fry you'll have later. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, this trip's got something for everyone. And let's be real – there's no better way to spend a morning than chasing trout in the rich waters of St. Bernard.
Alright, folks, here's the deal – spots fill up fast, especially during peak season. If you're itching to get out on the water and tangle with some serious trout (and maybe a few bonus species), don't wait. Grab your fishing buddy, check your calendar, and let's get you booked. Remember, we're talking about a half-day of non-stop action, starting bright and early at 5:30 AM. You bring the excitement, I'll bring the know-how and the hot spots. Trust me, once you've felt the pull of a big speck on your line, you'll be counting the days until you can get back out here. So what are you waiting for? Let's make some fishing memories that'll last a lifetime. Book now, and I'll see you on the water!
Black Drum are the heavyweights of the drum family, typically ranging from 5 to 30 pounds but capable of hitting 90 pounds. Look for them in brackish waters, around oyster beds, and near creek mouths. They love structure, so pilings and jetties are prime spots. These fish are most active in spring during spawning season, when they gather in large schools. Anglers get a kick out of their powerful fight and the drumming sounds they make. Their flesh is best when they're under 15 pounds – bigger ones can get tough. To land a Black Drum, use fresh crab or shrimp on the bottom. Here's a pro tip: if you're fishing near oyster beds, try peeling your shrimp. The scent drives them wild, and you'll avoid losing bait to smaller fish picking at it.
Redfish, or Red Drum, are the rockstars of inshore fishing. You'll spot them by their copper color and black spot near the tail. They typically run 28-33 inches when mature, but can grow over 45 inches and 50 pounds. Look for them in shallow water, 1-4 feet deep, around oyster reefs, grass flats, and marsh edges. They're most active in fall and spring. Anglers love Redfish for their hard-fighting nature and excellent table fare. To catch one, try sight-fishing in clear shallows or working topwater lures along grass lines. Here's a local trick: on hot summer days, look for their tails sticking out of the water as they root for crabs in super-shallow areas. Approach quietly and make a precise cast – the explosion when they strike is unforgettable.
Sea Trout, also known as Speckled Trout, are a favorite among coastal anglers. These silvery, spotted fish typically run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds, though some monsters can hit 40 pounds. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They're most active in cooler months when they school up in deeper channels. Anglers prize Sea Trout for their mild, delicate flavor and the fun of sight-casting to them in clear water. To hook one, try live shrimp under a popping cork or artificial lures like jerk baits and topwater plugs. Here's a tip from the locals: on calm mornings, look for them feeding on the surface – you'll see swirls and splashes. Cast just beyond the activity and work your lure through the zone for explosive strikes.
Sheepshead, with their distinct black and white stripes, are the convicts of the sea. These crafty fish usually weigh 1-8 pounds and hang around structures like docks, bridges, and reefs. They're famous for their human-like teeth, which they use to crush barnacles and crabs. Spring's the best time to target them as they gather to spawn. Anglers love the challenge – Sheepshead are notorious bait stealers. Their white, sweet meat makes great table fare, though they're tricky to clean. For the best shot at landing one, use light tackle and natural bait like fiddler crabs or shrimp. Here's a local secret: when you feel a nibble, wait a beat before setting the hook. These fish are experts at stripping bait, so patience is key to hooking them solidly.
These flat, oval-shaped fish are masters of camouflage, blending in with sandy or muddy bottoms. Typically 15-18 inches long, they can reach up to 33 inches and 20 pounds. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. Southern Flounder are ambush predators, lying in wait for smaller fish and crustaceans. They're most active in fall as they migrate offshore to spawn. Anglers love targeting them for their delicate, white meat and the challenge of their sneaky nature. To catch one, try still fishing or drifting with live bait like mullet or shrimp. Use a single-hook rig with a slip lead to keep your bait near the bottom. Here's a local tip: when you feel a bite, wait a second before setting the hook. Flounder often grab the bait and turn it before swallowing, so giving them that extra moment can make all the difference.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 50
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250