Category: Fishing Reports

The Golden Tilefish (Lopholatilus chamaeleonticeps) is a species of marine ray-finned fish in the tilefish family, Malacanthidae. It is native to the western Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, where it is found in deep waters on the continental shelf.

The Golden Tilefish has a long, slender body and is usually a yellowish-gold color, hence its name. It has a large head with a pointed snout and a large mouth. Its dorsal fin is divided into two parts, and it has a forked tail. 

It can reach up to 35 inches in length and can weigh up to 10 pounds. Its diet consists mainly of crustaceans and mollusks. The Golden Tilefish is a highly migratory species and is known to migrate along the Atlantic coast in the Gulf of Mexico from North Carolina to Florida in the winter months.

Spawning peaks in June (Mid-Atlantic) and from April to June (South Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico). Females release 2 to 8 million eggs when they spawn.

Tilefish feed during the day on the bottom feeding crustaceans, clams, snails, worms, anemones, and sea cucumbers.

Juvenile tilefish are preyed on by spiny dogfish and monkfish as well as conger eels and large bottom-dwelling sharks such as dusky or sandbar sharks.

Fishing for tilefish

The tilefish is a popular game fish and is also commercially fished for its meat. The Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish Fishery Management Plan includes annual catch limits for recreational and commercial anglers.

In 2021, recreational anglers landed 260,000 pounds of tilefish, according to the NOAA Fisheries recreational fishing landings database. The majority of the recreational harvest was landed in the Gulf of Mexico. 

Regional recreational management measures include: Recreational fishermen can keep a limited number of tilefish per fishing trip in the Mid-Atlantic/Southern New England area. There is a limit on how many tilefish recreational fishermen can keep and a limit on the total amount that can be harvested during the year in the South Atlantic.

It is an important species for recreational and commercial fisheries in the US. In recent years, however, the population of Golden Tilefish has been declining due to overfishing and habitat destruction. As a result, the species has been listed as a species of concern by the US National Marine Fisheries Service.

Managers have taken steps to decrease overfishing. Commercial tilefish fisheries IFQ (individual fishing quota) programs are used to manage the Gulf of Mexico and the Mid-Atlantic. Although specific details may vary from region to region, the general principle is that managers allocate a portion of the annual catch to participating fishermen.

If you are wanting to catch Golden Tilefish, the best commercial gear type to use would be an electric reel with a 100-pound braid line. The mono leader on the bottom can be a 300-pound test and should have an 80-pound mono branch crimped to each sharp circle hook. Tilefish don’t have teeth, so you don’t have to worry about your fishing gear.

In the Gulf of Mexico, tilefish are included in the reef fish aggregate bag limit, along with several other reef fish species, and the fishery is closed when the annual catch limit is projected to be met.

Tilefish taste

The taste of tilefish has been described as sweet with a hint of richness. It has a mild flavor, with just a slight hint of brininess. The meat is flaky, and it has a delicate buttery texture. 

When cooked, the golden tilefish has a medium-firm texture.

It is a great fish to pair with sauces or marinades, as it can take on the flavors of the ingredients used. It is also great for baking, grilling, and pan-frying. This fish is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes.

Nutritional facts about tilefish

Tilefish is a healthy option for those looking to add nutritious fish to their weekly diet. This fish is loaded with healthy Omega-3 fatty acids providing about 1,200 milligrams of Omega-3 fatty acids per 3-ounce serving. 

High in protein, tilefish provides about 21 grams per 3-ounce serving. It also provides vitamins like A, B6, and B12. This fish is a great source of selenium providing about 51 micrograms per 3-ounce serving, a mineral that helps to reduce inflammation and plays a role in the immune system. 

The American Heart Association has even recommended tilefish for its beneficial effects on the heart. Tilefish is low in mercury, meaning it is safe to consume, and it is a great low-fat source of protein. 

Tilefish is a great addition to any meal, whether it is grilled, baked, or pan-fried. Adding tilefish to your diet offers a wide range of health benefits and is a great way to enjoy tasty, healthy fish.

Best Golden Tilefish recipes

Tilefish is some of the best-tasting fish and is extremely versatile. It can be used in many cooking methods. However, it shines when baked or roasted with butter or spices. 

These are some of the best tilefish recipes:

1. Buttery Tilefish

This buttery tilefish recipe uses moist, well-seasoned tilefish filets and savory butter. Then it gets a burst in freshness from lemon juice and a savory flavor from chives. This delicious and delicate dish can be enjoyed on its own or with a bowl full of green salad or sauteed vegetables.

2. Crispy Tilefish with Ponzu Butter

You already know that tilefish is delicate, so it will be crisp as well. This crispy tilefish with ponzu butter recipe highlights the fish’s flakiness. Season the flesh side of the filets in salt, and cook it in a large skillet until opaque. 

For a gourmet dinner, top it with mild, earthy, lightly-browned enoki mushrooms. Serve the fish and mushrooms with a tart, rich yuzu-ponzu-butter sauce to elevate the meal.

3. Golden Tilefish with Pesto-Pecan Crust

While tilefish browns beautifully you will need to make sure your cooking is a bit more sophisticated. This recipe calls for seasoning the fish and topping it with a pesto–pecan crust. 

It is made up of pecan meal and lemon juice, nutritional yeast, parmesan, olive oil, parsley, pepper flakes, and salt. This golden tilefish with pesto-pecan crust recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

4. Oven Roasted Golden Tilefish

This oven-roasted golden tilefish recipe uses the standard cooking technique to create a flaky, yet firm tilefish. The filets are brushed with olive oil, sea salt, and ground pepper and oven-roasted until they feel firm to the touch.

You can enjoy the fish filet on its own, with butter and lemon slices, or with grape tomatoes and onion with fennel.

Best wines to drink with the Golden Tilefish

The mild, subtle flavor of the Golden Tilefish allows it to pair well with a wide range of wines. Some of the best choices are white wines with a mild, citrusy flavor, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, or Grüner Veltliner. 

Sauvignon Blanc has a bright acidity that brings out the flavor of the tilefish, while Riesling has a fruity sweetness that complements the mild fish. Grüner Veltliner, a unique Austrian grape variety, has a bright, mineral-driven flavor that enhances the subtleness of the tilefish. 

All three of these wines have a light body that won’t overpower the delicate texture of the tilefish. They are also versatile enough to pair with a variety of side dishes, from steamed vegetables to a light salad. The bright acidity and citrusy flavors of these wines will also help to cut through any buttery richness that may be present in the dish.

In summary, white wines with a mild, citrusy flavor, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, or Grüner Veltliner, are great choices for pairing with Golden Tilefish. These wines have a light body and bright acidity that won’t overpower the delicate texture of the fish. 

Their citrusy flavors will help to enhance the subtle flavor of the fish and cut through any buttery richness that may be present in the dish.

Conclusion

The golden tilefish is a nutritious and delicious-tasting fish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It has a mild, buttery flavor that pairs well with citrus and herbs. It is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy and delicious choice. 

Fishing for golden tilefish is a great way to get a delicious and nutritious meal. It is also a sustainable, environmentally friendly choice. When fishing for golden tilefish, it is important to follow local regulations as many areas have restrictions on fishing for them. With the proper gear, technique, and knowledge, anyone can enjoy a successful and delicious fishing trip for golden tilefish.

There are many delicious recipes for golden tilefish, such as roasted, fried, or grilled. Wines that pair well with this fish include Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio.

All in all, the golden tilefish is an excellent seafood choice that is sure to please any palate.

 

Looking for a great new summer getaway? One of the best ways to spend time during the summer season is to charter a Louisiana Gulf coast fishing trip. The Gulf Coast is the place to find some of the world’s tastiest deep water specimens. One of them is the legendary Mahi Mahi, also known as the Dolphinfish.  All of this can be done from Venice LA, the epicenter of Louisiana fishing. 

Where Can the Mahi Mahi Be Found?

The Mahi Mahi can be found in great abundance off the Gulf Coast shore of the state of Louisiana. It is one of the most common, as well as widely sought after, sporting and dining fish in the region. Luckily for anglers, it is so common that there is no need for the state to impose any kind of bag limit.

Mahi Mahi tend to congregate in schools, although some specimens do have spells of solitary travel. This is especially true of bulls during the off-season. They prefer to swim in deeper waters, although some can be found in somewhat shallower areas near to the land. In general, this is a very angler-friendly sporting fish.

 

How Much Does a Mahi Mahi Weigh?

Most specimens of Mahi Mahi that you come across will tend to weigh between 10 and 20 pounds. This is the average size of this species. However, there are some very weighty exceptions. Large alpha males, commonly known as bulls, may reach a weight of up to 60 or even 70 pounds. Although they are the exception, they are common enough to hook.

Of course, the bigger the fish you have on your line, the more effort you will need to make in order to safely reel it in. Since most Mahi Mahi are quite small, they are an excellent target for beginning and medium skill level anglers. Of course, it’s a good idea to have an expert charter boat crew on hand to help you with the big bull males.

 

There is No Bag Limit for the Mahi Mahi

As mentioned above, there is no official state or Federal bag limit for the Mahi Mahi. This means that you are free to catch as many as you like for as long as you care to stay out on the water. Depending on the time of year that you charter your fishing trip, other state or federal laws may apply to this and other sporting fish.

 

How to Catch the Mahi Mahi

Unlike many other fish in the gulf such as red snapper, Mahi Mahi are one of the easiest fish to catch in the Louisiana Gulf Coast. They respond quickly and with a great deal of enthusiasm to common baits. These can include trolling live baits, skirted baits, and naked ballyhoo. Once you have their attention, you will be amazed at the level of response that you receive.

The best time to catch the Mahi Mahi is during the spring months up until June. However, there are also select times during other times of the year when a charter fishing trip can turn up plenty of live specimens to bring home to your dinner table. But, in general, spring and very early summer is the best time to fish for them.

Since the number of Mahi Mahi in the Louisiana Gulf Coast is so large, there is no real need to feel guilty if you begin to reel them in huge numbers. This is a very common occurrence on Louisiana Gulf Coast charter fishing trips. The crew of your charter boat will do all they can to assist you to reel in as many as you desire.

 

The Mahi Mahi is a Great Addition to Your Table

The Mahi Mahi is renowned all over the world as one of the most delicious examples of prime seafood. Anglers who catch their share of this delicious fish are always in a hurry to get straight back to the land. Once you have tasted the Mahi Mahi for yourself, you will quickly come to see why this is so.

Mahi Mahi is best cooked on the grill. There are plenty of delicious and very easy recipes that you can find on the web. The captain and crew of your Louisiana Gulf Coast charter fishing boat will also be glad to give you first-class suggestions for cooking this tasty fish. They have a light, aromatic taste that is very pleasing.

 

Charter Your Louisiana Charter Boat Fishing Trip Today

The time for you to charter your Louisiana Gulf Coast fishing trip is now. Spring is upon us and the Mahi Mahi is schooling in great numbers during the spring season. If you are ready to get out on the water and have the time of your life, this is your chance. Get in touch with us today to charter your Gulf Coast fishing trip today.            

 

Are you ready to get out on the water? The time for fishing season is here! The Gulf Coast of Louisiana is one of the busiest and most fertile realms for sport fishing of all types. Now is an excellent time for you to charter your personal Louisiana Gulf Coast fishing expedition.

And if you’re going out to the deep Gulf, there is one sport fish that you will be pleased to take home above all others. This is the legendary Red Snapper. When you’re talking about sport fishing – as well as delicious, well earned seafood meals – the Red Snapper is a prize that you’ll be overjoyed to earn.

How Do You Know When it’s a Red Snapper?

The Red Snapper is a legendary denizen of the deep waters of the Louisiana Gulf of Mexico. They have certain telltale features that let you know what you’re dealing with. They come in unmistakably gaudy and bright red to pink hues. And they have comically large canine teeth, from which they get their iconic “Snapper” name.

Make no mistake, those teeth really do snap. The Red Snapper is not only a fearsome predator, it’s also a legendary game fish. Part of the legend comes from the fact that those enlarged canines can easily break the line of an inexperienced fisher. And even a world-class fisher can be fooled by this eminent trickster of the sea.

The Red Snapper is Subject to Fishing Limits

One of the most important reasons for chartering a fishing boat to catch the Red Snapper is to stay safely out of legal hot water. This is due to the fact that, up until a very short time ago, the Red Snapper was listed as a “severely depleted” species due to chronic overfishing.

Thankfully, this is no longer the case. A series of successful population regrowth initiatives have enabled the Red Snapper to breed back up to acceptable levels. In fact, there are more of them out there on the Gulf than there have been for many years. But this doesn’t mean that you can catch all you can eat.

Officially, the Red Snapper is still listed as well below target levels. This means that strict fishing season limits are in place. This rule applies at both the State and Federal level. The limit for catching Red Snapper is listed as2 per person. Please note that the Snapper you snag must be 16 inches or larger.

How Big Can a Red Snapper Get?

Speaking of dimensions, the growth rate of the average Red Snapper is considered to be quite moderate. An adult Snapper can reach up to 40 inches in total length. Most adults will range in weight from a minimum of 5 pounds to a maximum of 30 pounds. In most cases, the Snapper you encounter will weigh about 15 pounds.

How Do You Catch the Red Snapper?

There are a number of highly effective ways to catch yourself a Red Snapper. In most cases, an angler will drop a specially weighted line straight down to the depths. The most usual depth will be anywhere from about 25 to 400 feet. Although you can catch a Red Snapper in shallow waters, the vast majority of them will be found in the deeps.

Depending on your luck, you may find one ranging closer to the shoreline. However, they mostly tend to congregate in small groups near structures such as oil rig platforms or buoys. As noted above, you may find one near the surface but will usually encounter them in deeper waters, sometimes practically down at the bottom.

Most experienced anglers will use live or dead Menhadden, freshly cut Bonita, or squid as bait. Red Snapper prefer to go for live bait. However, you can also employ certain types of artificial bait.

The best artificial bait technique is usually jigging, especially as a last resort. However, the best results will always tend to be produced with the use of live bait.

Charter Your Red Snapper Fishing Trip Today

The Red Snapper is not only an amazing specimen to angle with, it’s also one of the most delicious seafood meals you can treat yourself to. Of course, like all top-notch sporting fish, it has to be fought with and earned. This is where the services of an experienced Louisiana charter fishing boat captain will come in handy.

If you want to experience the thrill of the hunt for the legendary Red Snapper, now is the time. Get in touch with us today to arrange your Louisiana Gulf Coast charter fishing trip. This is one potential holiday excursion that you owe it to yourself to experience. Contact us to arrange the ultimate seafood gathering expedition.

 

Red Snapper Study To Include $250 Tags On Fish

 

The 2019 deep sea fishing season is almost upon us. For deep sea sport fishers who are ready to get out on the water, there are a few new developments to keep in mind. A new study by a team of 21 scientists from five Gulf States and Virginia is placing some mighty pricey tags on red snapper.

 

The tags, which will be placed on roughly 2,500 to 3,000 red snapper specimens, are part of a study that aims to find out just how many of these popular sport fish live in the Gulf of Mexico.

 

Anglers don’t have to worry about getting in trouble if they should happen to catch a fish that has been specially tagged as part of this new study. Any red snapper that has been caught can be caught and kept, or released, just as long as their special tags are clipped off.

 

Each tag is worth $250. In order to get the reward, the angler will have to report the fishing post from where they departed as well as the date that the fish was caught. They also need to report the tag number on the fish and the latitude and longitude where they caught it. Fishers should ideally mail the tag in, although researchers will accept a photo in some cases.

 

If you’re on a charter fishing trip, one of the deck-hands or the captain of the boat should be able to help you with the tag. Just make sure to let someone know you caught a tagged fish and your crew will advise you.  

 

The New Study Aims to Curb Over-Fishing

 

Part of the reason why the new red snapper tag study is in effect for the 2019 season is because of rampant over-fishing. According to a study by NOAA Fisheries, the season was too long. This supposedly inordinate length was leading directly to recreational fishers catching far too many red snapper. The problem was largely one of long term sustainability for the species.

 

In 2017, the Trump administration extended the three-day federal season for an additional 39 weekend days. In 2018, Trump mandated an experiment set to last through 2020 in which states were given the power to open and close their recreational fishing seasons.

 

Not everyone has been happy with the supposed reforms that were adopted by the present administration. These measures have led to several lawsuits from wildlife agencies, who fear that such measures will lead inevitably to over-fishing. Their concerns have led to the present study.

 

The Red Snapper Study is in Effect for the 2019 Season

 

The United States Congress has approved the allocation in funds for the new red snapper season tagging study. The total donated by this body is currently set at $9.5 million. Meanwhile, the universities that have spearheaded the study have agreed to put up the rest of the necessary funding, to the tune of an addition $2.5 million.

 

The study is thus fully legitimate and backed up by the weight of the United States government. This means that it will be unlawful to interfere with the course of the study. Louisiana is taking a full part of the study.

 

Of course, this doesn’t mean that it is illegal to fish for red snapper, whether in the state of Louisiana or any other location on the Gulf coast. It simply means that deep-sea sport fishers will need to be respectful of the tags in addition to the other rules that regulate the Louisiana Gulf Coast fishing season.

Where Can You Get More Red Snapper Tag Info?

 

If anyone should be in need of more info concerning this new red snapper study, they can feel free to contact the NOAA or the Louisiana Department of Fish and Wildlife. As stated above, the ultimate purpose of the study is simply to determine how many red snapper are out there in order to keep deep sea sport fishing sustainable for years to come.

 

Meanwhile, anglers shouldn’t be too worried about this new development. The more healthy red snapper that are out there for the purposes of fishing and eating, and the more you can look forward to chartering a boat for the ultimate thrill of Louisiana Gulf fishing.

 

Red Snapper Seasons For 2018 & 2019

 

For more information about fishing in the Gulf Of Mexico, Contact Captain Troy Wetzel.

A Guide to the Top Louisiana Gulf Coast Fishing Rodeos

If you’re looking for excellent sport fishing opportunities on the Gulf Coast, you’re in luck. The state of Louisiana offers a wide variety of fishing rodeos for you to compete and have fun in. These are events that you can bring your family along to enjoy with you. They’re safe, exciting, and guaranteed to bring memories that you and your loved ones will continue to cherish for many years to come.

Even if you are just there to watch the event, there is still plenty of fresh air and fun to take in. You can easily charter a fishing trip of your own that you will remember with fondness for the rest of your life. Here is a short list of some of the most famous fishing rodeos in the Louisiana Gulf Coast area.

The Empire South Pass Tarpon Rodeo

One of the finest fishing rodeo events in the Gulf of Mexico area is the annual Empire South Pass Tarpon Rodeo. This event is scheduled to take place in the city of Empire during the first week of August. If you’re a major fishing rodeo aficionado, this is one event that you can’t afford to miss out on.

There are several categories that you can choose to compete in, such as tagging and releasing the most fish, Best Male and Female fishing champ, and special events for children. If you’re looking for a fun-filled, challenging event to participate in, this is one of the finest events to be held this year in the Gulf of Mexico region.

As with most events in the state, there will be plenty more for you and your family to do besides observing or participating in the rodeo. The proximity of Empire to the city of New Orleans will give you ample opportunity for sightseeing. Meanwhile, you can kick back and relax in the city of Empire itself. You’ll find plenty of scope for taking in the local nature and relaxing in a variety of different ways.

The Cajun Canyons Billfish Classic

One of the best-loved annual sport fishing events in the Gulf of Mexico area is the Cajun Canyons Billfish Classic. This yearly event offers an ample venue for some of the best charter fishing trips to be had in the region. You can tour the area, getting to know all of the many opportunities for outdoor activity. And if you are up to the challenge, you can join in one of the state’s top-billed fishing rodeo events.

The Cajun Canyons Billfish Classic is known throughout the country as the second leg of the Gulf Coast Triple Crown, It’s also listed as one of the premier qualifying events for the Offshore World Championship and the InTheBite Captain of the Year Cup. This is one of the most competitive and prestigious events that you can participate in.

If you’re serious about qualifying for the ultimate Gulf Coast Fishing Rodeo trifecta, this is the perfect route to your ultimate championship. Even if you’re just here to witness the action, you’ll learn plenty from seeing the pros in their natural element. It’s the perfect place to pick up fishing tips and tricks that will serve you well in your own endeavors.

Continuing in the tradition established in the last few years, the Cajun Canyons Billfish Classic will once again be hosted by the management of Cypress Cove Marina & Lodge. The event will take place in the downtown area of Venice. The celebration will last from May 29 to June 3. If you are excited about the prospect of enjoying charter fishing at its finest, this is one event you need to be sure not to miss out on.

The Grand Tarpon Isle Rodeo

If you really want to participate in the granddaddy of all Gulf Coast fishing rodeos, there is one in particular that stands out. This is the Grand Tarpon Isle rodeo. To get there, you have to drive 50 miles out of the city of New Orleans, finally reaching the site of the rodeo at the very end of State Highway 1. However, this is a journey that is well worth it for Gulf Coast fishing enthusiasts. It’s your chance to see more of the state with your own eyes.

Indeed, for many people, the Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo is not only the oldest and longest continuously running saltwater fishing event, but it’s also by far the best. The Grand Isle Tarpon event gives you the option of attempting to hook over 280 different species, a variety that few other locations can hope to match, much less exceed. You should also take note that Grand Isle Tarpon is host to the only state-owned beach to be found on the entire Gulf Coast of the state.

The Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo is one of the state’s oldest and most beloved annual events. This classic saltwater fishing rodeo draws more than 15,000 attendees each and every year. It isn’t just for the fishing, though this is obviously a major part of the attraction. There is so much to do and see here that you may find yourself returning to the area year after year to see much more than the local fishing rodeo.

The proximity of the event to New Orleans is also a huge draw. You can fish at the rodeo one day, then explore the city and its surrounding scenic area on the next. For example, the rodeo is very near to the Delta National Wildlife Refuge, as well as the Jean Lafitte Preserve. If you want to see more of the state and learn for yourself what makes it tick, now is the perfect time to come see the Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo.

The Gulf Coast is Here to Offer You Ample Opportunities for Sport Fishing

No matter where you find yourself along the Gulf Coast of Louisiana, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for sports fishing, competitive rodeo events, and general outdoor activity. The Gulf Coast is also the perfect place to enjoy hiking, camping, swimming, barbecuing, and many other family activities. No matter what you are looking for, you’re sure to find a means of enjoying yourself to the fullest.

This is a region that offers a multitude of adventure and exploration opportunities. No matter how many times you have been here, there is always something new to discover and learn more about. This is why the appeal of the Gulf Coast continues to be as strong as ever. If you would like to learn more about fishing and other outdoor activities in the state, please feel free to contact us for more information.

Louisiana Gulf Coast And The Fishing It Offers

With over 3,000 miles of coastline, Louisiana’s waters are naturally teeming with fish. The state also has one of the most generous catch limits in the nation, which adds to its appeal as a sport fishing destination.

Perhaps best of all is that there is no one “season” for deep sea fishing in Louisiana. The mild climate makes fishing possible throughout the year, even during the coldest days of winter!

You can look forward to possibly catching many types of fish on a Louisiana charter fishing expedition, including lemon fish, grouper, mackerel, yellowfin tuna, blackfin tuna, red snapper, speckled trout, and cobia. Whether you’re planning a one-day adventure or a multi-day excursion fishing in the Gulf, you won’t come back home empty-handed.

Fishing Through The Seasons

The types of fish you’ll find when Louisiana offshore fishing is largely influenced by the seasons. From January through March, the coastal waters are filled with large wahoo and yellowfin tuna. These species tend to be closer to the shoreline at this time of year, as they gravitate to the warmer waters in the shallows.

You may be able to fish for both species less than 20 miles offshore. Other species of fish that appear this time of year are redfish and speckled trout. They are normally found along the entire coastline.

If you’re looking to catch prize-winning speckled trout, consider planning your trip during mid-late spring. This is the species’ spawning season, and it is also historically the time of year when fishermen report the largest speckled trout catches. Redfish also start to appear in April, and they are relatively abundant through June.

With the arrival of more fish through spring, summer is a prime time to take a Louisiana charter fishing trip. The longer days of summer also means that this season has the longest window of time for fishing.

The warmer air and water temperatures invite dozens of species, which makes the coastline prime real estate for big fish. Yellowfin tuna, amberjack, red snapper, cobia, and mangrove snapper are just several species that reside in the coastal waters during summer.

A real treat, however, is Blue Marlin. Blue Marlin thrive along the southeastern shore, where they can reach tremendous sizes. Many fishermen have reported regularly catching Blue Marlin that weigh 100 pounds or more!

Learn the differences of swordfish vs marlin.

Fall is the time to start packing up your gear for the year in many places around the country, but not here. Speckled trout are still active in the fall. They’re not quite as big as they are in the summer, but they are especially delicious this time of year.

Redfish are also prevalent in the cooler months of the year. This is also a good time to try your hand at getting a trophy yellowfin tuna, as they are notoriously large from October through December. During this time of year, it’s not unheard of for anglers to catch yellowfin tuna that weigh over 150 pounds!

To make sure you are fishing in the right places to get the size and type of fish you want, you are strongly encouraged to go with a Louisiana charter fishing guide. A guide will know the current air and water temperatures, and in turn where to find the best fish. He or she also knows the changing feeding habits of the fish in the area, which also makes it easier to find the best catches.

Choosing Your Bait And Location

As you plan your trip, be aware that where you go to fish and the type of bait you use can make a difference in the success of your Louisiana offshore fishing excursion. A popular place to go for prime Gulf of Mexico deep sea fishing Louisiana is around the offshore oil rigs. Oil rigs may not be the first places that come to mind when you’re looking for fish, but they actually provide prime habitat for many species of fish.

The structure of the oil rigs naturally creates hiding spots for smaller fish and crustaceans. These smaller fish provide food for larger fish, and they’re also great bait fish. A unique combination of bottom feeder fish and fish that live in the mid-upper levels of the sea convene along oil rigs to feed on the smaller fish and shellfish. If you’re after dolphin, tuna, marlin, and wahoo, oil rigs are a good place to look.

Oil platforms tend to attract speckled trout and redfish, as they are located a little closer to shore. As for bait, the small fish that live around the oil rigs are a natural choice for many fishermen. Bright, vibrantly colored lures are another good option, as they’re visible and attract both freshwater and saltwater fish.

You can also use lures infused with salt and other salient scents for bait, as it generates a powerful scent that fish don’t ignore. Softer baits that have moving parts (such as tails and fins) are another good choice for attracting fish.

Final Tips and Suggestions

Whether you’ve got your eye on a fishing prize or you just want to show off to your friends, there are some tips and tricks for making sure your Gulf of Mexico deep sea fishing Louisiana experience is as rewarding as possible in all seasons.

If you’re fishing in the wintertime, look for fish in deeper water. Fish typically move to shallower waters when the temperature rises. Conversely, they will move to deeper waters when the temperature drops. Another winter fishing tip is to slow down your retrieve a bit and try not to move the bait around erratically.

Remember to set the hook, since strikes may feel soft. Since the water temperature is generally warmer in moving water, you’ll be in a better position to find fish there in the wintertime. Year-round, be sure to bring a license with you. Licenses are available for even short, day-long expeditions, but you’ll need to have one regardless of how long your trip is.

Sunscreen, even in winter, is also good to pack. Keeping in mind that the weather can change, however, it’s a good idea to bring rain gear, too. Insect repellent and water or other beverages are other year-round necessities. Finally, don’t forget to bring a camera or phone so that you capture your best moments out on the boat!

3 Top Lures for Louisiana’s Gulf Coast

With countless lures available for fishing on the Gulf of Mexico, narrowing your selections down to three types will help you to get the bigger fish and gain the experience needed to draw in those monsters from out of hiding. Although there are hundreds of lures to choose from, by narrowing the list to three, you won’t get frustrated or overwhelmed when you make the call to the Louisiana offshore fishing charter captain to book your next fishing excursion.

 

Choosing the Right Jigs to Catch Bigger Fish

Make no mistake about it, the charter boat captain can lead you to where the monster fish are hiding, but he can’t reel them in the boat for you. The jig consists of nothing more than a weighted head that is attached to a hook, allowing you to attach the soft bait of your choice to the body or trailer of the jig. The jig will be cast far away from the charter boat, then followed by occasional jerking of the rod tip. This movement is the key to attracting the bass or redfish hiding around the oil rigs or bridge pillars because it simulates the fish falling and rising the water column. This simulation of an injured fish is the dinner bell to hungry fish, and the predators will come in fast to take action before another fish gets the free meal. Regardless if the charter boat fishing captain has taken you offshore or inshore, you will have little trouble reeling in snapper, redfish, bass, and sea trout, with your jigs. The jigs are ideal in rough seas too, even high winds will not negatively affect the movement of the jig on the water.

 

Although this is one of the most popular lure types used out in the basin of the Mississippi, many anglers don’t use the jigs correctly and come home empty-handed. Although you feel that urge to reel the jig in fast, patience is the key. Reel in too fast or jerk the line too hard, and the fish will scatter. Jerking the line too hard pulls the bait out of the strike zone.

 

Topwater Lures Making Bigger Fish Strike

It doesn’t matter if you are hunting for bluefish, snook, redfish, sea trout, or amberjack, the topwater lures out on the Gulf of Mexico can help get those bigger predators to come out of hiding quickly. The topwater lure glides on the surface of the water, attracting big fish below to come from deep below to strike at the lure. In this area of Louisiana, the two best types of topwater lures are the walk the dog type stick baits and poppers & chuggers. The walk the dog baits are referred by fishermen as spooks and date back to 1939 as the industry standard in this region. The way to attract those huge trophy fish hiding deep in the Gulf of Mexico is to first point your rod down at the surface of the water, then move the tip very quickly in a side-to-side motion, simulating walking the dog. This motion is a dinner bell to certain fish who will splash around as they attack the bait quickly.

 

When using poppers & chugger out on the charter fishing boat, you’ll need to cast that lure out far, so make sure you have plenty of room. Once the lure hits the surface of the water, jerk the lure back with very small and swift motions of the tip of your rod. This quick action causes the bait to pop, displacing water and creating an audible splash and sound that predators can spot instantly. The noisy action of the lure and the constant splashing simulates a wounded fish, an easy way to draw out fish hiding near oil rigs, seawalls, and docks.

 

Why Crankbaits are Your Best Chance to Catch Fish

Make no mistake about it, the crankbait has been rated the best artificial fishing lure by avid fishermen looking to catch bigger fish. Easy to use, they create lifelike actions and patterns in the water, irresistible to most fish in the Gulf of Mexico. Simply cast out the lure, then crank it back, that swimming action of the lure gets bigger fish exciting about swooping in for a quick and easy meal. Choosing the right crankbait is all about knowing how deep the bait is designed to swim. Look closely at the bill of the crankbait, the length compared to size will tell you how deep the bait will swim. Short bills tend to run shallow, flat and long bills run much deeper.

 

Even though the crankbait is a breeze to use, choosing the wrong depth bait for the fishing environment the boat is stopping at could reduce your catches. If the lure gets too low and gets entangled with seaweed, remove it immediately because predators know fish usually are not swimming tangled in seaweed or other debris.

 

When you call the charter boat fishing captain to book your next fishing excursion, be sure to inquire about the types of areas the boat will be stopping so you can choose your lures according.