The Louisiana flats fishing destination is a popular spot for many fishers. People from all over the country make annual trips to Louisiana to enjoy the nature and sport of reeling in fresh fish. The activity can take skill, concentration and determination in order to get some good catches.
The Calcasieu Estuary is a combination of the Calcasieu River and the Ship Channel, both of which run from Lake Charles to the Gulf of Mexico. The Estuary is a highly recommended and popular fishing spot if you are looking for a great journey and some delicious, fresh trout. Luckily, you can also catch flounder, redfish, and speckled trout. Ladyfish, sheepshead, croakers and variations of trout, such as sand, black and drum, can also be occasionally reeled in at this destination.
If you are adventurous and decide to head out to the oil platforms near the shore, you will be able to catch Spanish mackerel, bluefish, snapper, tripletail, bull redfish, pompano, jack crevalle, cobia and sometimes sharks.
You will need to make sure you have the proper equipment for catching the more advanced gamefish species. The proper bait is also essential for whether or not you get a good day's worth of fish.
If you are unfamiliar with the flats, it is highly recommended that you acquire a knowledgeable guide when you go. The guide should be familiar with the location, the waters, the types of fish available and be able to assist you when it comes to catching the fish. The bull redfish are often suggested as good starter fishes.
The bull redfish is popular among beginners because you can carry a rod, reel and ice chest to a spot of your choosing and catch the fish rather easily. Other species of fish in the flats require that you rent a boat and have a higher level or determination. With bull redfish, you can sit back and relax.
If you are considering doing a Louisiana flats fishing experience in the summer, it is highly recommended that you bring along a comfortable but easily transportable chair and an umbrella. The flats can received intense sun and become very hot so also bring along refreshing drinks and foods. Also, since it is expected that you will be fishing for quite some time, you can bring along a radio or other entertainment device when the fish are being slow to bite. Good luck and happy fishing!
