Why has Venice, LA earned the nickname “The End of the World”? Because Venice is the last community in Louisiana that can be accessed by an automobile! You’ll find Venice 75 miles south of New Orleans on the west bank of the Mississippi River. Right at the end of the Great River Road, which runs almost the entirety of the United States, north to south. 

Venice is a fishing community. So much so that virtually the entire economy of the community is based around the fishing industry. Although inshore fishing is popular in much of Louisiana, in Venice offshore fishing is king. There’s no question that Venice offers world class offshore and deep sea fishing charters.

Venice is located in Plaquemines Parish (parish is Louisiana for “county”). The parish includes land on either side of the Mississippi River and stretches from New Orleans to the Gulf of Mexico. 

It is only one of two parishes that have kept the same boundaries since they were established in 1807. The population is just over 23,000 as of 2020.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN AND AROUND VENICE, LA

Take an Offshore Fishing Charter!

You can’t visit Venice without taking an offshore fishing charter.  In Venice, LA, fishing boats are more common than automobiles.  Although Yellowfin Tuna fishing draws people from all over the world, they’re not the only game in town. There are many trophy fish that can be caught in the Gulf of Mexico.  

While Venice, LA fishing charters run year-round, the catch is seasonal. Contact Captain Troy to see what’s biting and to book your next Venice fishing charter.

Sure, the entire state is known for the famous Louisiana fishing. But Venice is considered the top of the top, the cream of the crop and the cherry on top. This is proven by the fishing rodeos held annually.

Many species of fish migrate or live in the waters off the coast of the Venice area. The Gulf of Mexico sees a broad migration of species including:

• Yellowfin Tuna
• Blackfin Tuna
• Blue Marlin
• King Mackerel 
• Spanish Mackerel
• Amberjack
• Grouper 
• Red Snapper
• Mahi Mahi
• Swordfish

No matter your experience level, if you’re into angling, fishing in Venice is an experience you’ll never forget.

Go Duck Hunting

Did you know that Venice offers some of the best duck hunting in the world? You’ll just need a hunting license and a guide. 

• Teal season: September 14-29
• Big Ducks: November 16 – December 8
• Closed: December 9-20
• Big Ducks: December 21 – January 26

Checkout Venice duck hunting guide services

Visit Historic Places

In addition to perfectly representing Louisiana’s Sportsman’s Paradise moniker, Venice is surrounded by important American history.

Fort Jackson

About 14 miles upriver from Venice, Fort Jackson is a historic masonry fort located in Buras-Triumph. It’s a star-shaped pentagon and is surrounded by a moat. Constructed between 1822 and 1832, it served as a coastal defense of New Orleans. 

It was also a battle site during the American Civil War, and a National Historic Landmark.

Find Fruits, Veggies, and Seafood

The produce in most markets is usually local and is both organic and regular. Farmer’s markets are located in Venice and the surrounding areas, and the growers often come to the market. 

In addition, citrus fruits grow abundantly. Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and satsumas are all grown commercially. The  Plaquemines Parish Orange Festival is usually the first full weekend of December in the nearby town of Buras.

Local Activities

While Venice is known for world-class fishing and boating, people in the area enjoy many activities. Tourists who vacation in the state find the outdoor opportunities stunning in this region because of how close everything is to the water.

Kite Fishing

In addition to the traditional methods, Venice offers the opportunity for kite fishing trips as well. Originated in the Far East, the original purpose was to be able to fish past the breakers from shore. 

These days, it allows fishing guides to offer their guests a truly unique experience. 

Since the line is attached to a kite, the lure and bait dance in the water, attracting many fish species.

Bird Watching

Near the Venice Marina, a wide area of marshland often lets birders find Lesser Black-backed gulls and other seagulls. Sometimes, visitors can see these birds crossing the road in large groups. The best time to visit for bird watching for nature’s fish finders is in the winter months. 

Near the Empire area, many open land areas and fields offer excellent sighting opportunities for hawks and swallows. Other birds you may find in the area are:

• Shorebirds
• Gull
• White-winged Dove
• Groove-billed Ani
• Heron
• Ibis
• Osprey
• Anhinga
• Gallinule
• Black-bellied Whistling Duck
• Frigate
• Chuck-Wills Widow (northern Venice and Empire bridge areas)
• Horned & Barn Owls
• Vermilion Flycatcher

Kayaking

A beautiful way to explore this area of Louisiana is by small watercraft like kayaks. Boaters can take their time wafting down the Mississippi River and seeing the area from the water’s edge. This avenue gives tourists the chance to explore Venice from a different vantage point. For the adventurous, kayak fishing is a great experience.

Helicopter Tours

Do you want to experience Louisiana in an elaborate fashion? A helicopter tour is an awesome way to see the Gulf, the River, and the edge of Louisiana. Riders can spot migrating fish and birds as well as viewing the various land types and habitats in an uncommon manner.

Climate Information

Any time of year is an excellent time to visit the community. Its highs typically don’t dip below the 60s in the coldest months. Since the area is surrounded on three sides with water, there’s always humidity and rainfall. 

Most months, the community receives at least four inches of rain. It rains an average of just over 100 days per year with tons of sunlight the rest of the time. And don’t worry about snow, because that doesn’t happen here.

Venice Food & Nightlife

After a long day of fishing and outdoor fun, you’ll be ready for a bite and an ice cold beer. Here are a couple of places you have to check out while you’re in town.

Cypress Grill

Cypress Grill has a nice little party deck outside the bar and restaurant. It sits right on the water and affords guests a lovely sunset view each evening. From stew to oysters, this Cajun restaurant offers a variety of dishes using the fresh catch of the day.

The Den Lounge

The Den Lounge is a fun place to grab a cold one and shoot a game of pool with friends. This bustling bar has several televisions and hosts festive Mardi Gras celebrations each year. 

Stop by on a Saturday night to watch those Fightin’ Tigers of LSU under the lights. Or pass by around noon on Sunday to see the Saints go marching in! GEAUX TIGERS & WHO DAT!!!

Call Me!

In my years navigating the waters of Venice, I’ve come to realize that every fishing trip tells a unique story. Whether it’s the chase of Yellowfin Tuna or the serene moments waiting for that Speckled Trout, these waters don’t disappoint.

If you’re seeking an authentic, unforgettable fishing experience in Venice, join me on one of our fishing charters. I promise you a journey filled with fun, excitement, and a bountiful catch. Don’t let another year pass by. Come and write your own fishing story with me, Captain Troy. 

Are you ready for the adventure?

Fishing in Louisiana

The Bayou State is a wonderful place to visit. It’s a mix of cultures, great music and delicious food. It shouldn’t surprise you if you fall in love with Louisiana fishing. 

It’s a part of local culture, much like jazz or jambalaya. It’s as varied as Louisiana, with freshwater and saltwater fisheries that are world-class.

The “Sportsman’s Paradise” has some of the finest fishing in the South. Louisiana is home to many bass lakes, in addition to the Mississippi River running its last stretch through the state. 

You’ll find extensive marshes and swamps along the coast. These islands provide amazing inshore fishing areas. You can also fish offshore for a variety of bottom-dwelling and pelagic fish.

You’ll love it, and we’re just getting started! Here, we’ll discuss some of the most popular fish in Louisiana and where you can find them. We’ll also discuss the best ways to approach these waters, and the places we believe are worth exploring.

Top Louisiana Fishing Targets

There are many species to be caught in Louisiana, including the brackish and freshwater wetlands and the lakes and rivers. There’s no offseason, and there are many different types of fish that you can target. Here are a few of our favorites so have a look to see if yours.

Redfish

Redfish love to hide in shallow water, canals and river mouths. If you’ve ever fished for them, you know this already. Louisiana’s coast is the perfect habitat for redfish. You also have the option to visit the stunning Chandeleur Islands for some light tackle fishing.

You can catch juvenile Redfish all year in the “Pelican State”. These will make a great dinner, provided they are within the slot limit. You’ll be able to reel in larger specimens once fall arrives. Louisiana’s Bull Redfish season is particularly vibrant with fish reaching up to 40 inches.

Red Snapper

Louisiana’s Red Snapper season is always popular. Snapper is delicious, and few other fish can match its taste and quality. You can have your Snapper Cajun-style in this part of the south. This delicious delicacy will add a little spice to your life.

The Gulf waters off the coast of Louisiana are full of oil rigs, artificial reefs, and sandbars. Anglers can usually catch their limit without needing to travel too far offshore.

Yellowfin Tuna

When you think of fishing for Yellowfin Tuna, which destinations spring to mind? California or maybe Mexico? No doubt, these are great places. But you’d be wise to add Louisiana to your list.

This part of the Gulf Coast is tuna-fighting ground all year. You’ll likely see whole schools of them spawning if you visit in the spring. You’ll enjoy calmer waters and can combine your Tuna hunting with some Snapper wrangling. But your best chance of reeling in Yellowfin monsters happens once fall arrives.

Make sure you’re ready to take on one of the most formidable fighters around before tuna fishing in Louisiana. These fish are fast, powerful, and as tenacious as they come. They’ll test your stamina and skills, making it all the more satisfying when you finally reel one in.

Largemouth Bass

Let’s forget saltwater for a minute and look at inland Louisiana fishing. It might be overshadowed by states without offshore fishing options, but we’ve got great Bass angling here too. There are many freshwater lakes in the state that produce fish over 10 pounds. Largemouth can also be found in rivers and in the brackish water of marshes.

You don’t have to know much about Bass to fish for them. Even though they’re known for being tricksters, it’s easy to have fun even if you’re a beginner. You’ll need a sturdy rod and reel combination, carefully selected lures, and a bank to fish. If you have a boat, or a guide to help you, that’ll only enhance your experience.

And So Many Other Species…

While we’ve already mentioned some of our favorite species, there are a bunch more. Although Redfish is the most well-known target inshore, it’s not the only one. You can also find Speckled Trout and Sheepshead, Flounder, Black Drum, and a whole host of other species in coastal wetlands.

And Red Snapper isn’t the only fish found in artificial reefs or oil rigs. There are plenty of Grouper, Blackfin Tuna and King Mackerel. You’ll see some really big fish as you get further away from the coast. You might encounter the following species while offshore fishing in Louisiana: Mahi Mahi (Wahoo), Marlin, Tilefish, and Sailfish.

Sac-a-lait fishing is another option if you are looking for still water options. It’s another name for White Perch, aka Crappie. There’s also a large selection of Smallmouth Bass, and monster fish like Gar, Catfish, and Paddlefish. You’ll find something to reel in, no matter where you’re fishing. 

Best Ways to Fish in Louisiana

Charter Fishing in Louisiana

Fishing with locals is a great way to learn about a new fishery. With a fishing charter, you’ll learn from experts. Ones who’ve spent their entire lives in Louisiana’s waters. You’ll also have a boat at your disposal which will make it easier to explore the many fishing spots.

Anglers who want to try out new ways of fishing can also benefit from charter fishing trips. You’ll also find many guides in Louisiana that offer bowfishing trips. This will allow you to have an unforgettable experience. 

This is a great opportunity to try bowfishing if you haven’t tried it before. It’s easy to learn the basics in just a few hours. So, don’t hesitate to give it a shot just because you’re a beginner.

Both inshore and offshore fishing charters are great ways to bring your family along for a relaxing and enjoyable outing. Equipment will be handled by the charter captains, who’ll know the best places for the whole family to get involved. 

If you’re planning on deep-sea fish in Louisiana, you’ll need a guide. Federal permits are required for fishing beyond the state limits.

Shore Fishing in Louisiana

Anglers with all the gear will find it easy to fish in Louisiana. All you have to do is pick a spot on one of the shores and begin casting. This is a great way to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Louisiana while still catching a variety of species. Plus, fishing from the shore has the advantage of costing very little.

The Bayou State’s coastlines offer a wide variety of saltwater species. Redfish, Speckled Trout and Black Drum are just a few of the species you can hook into from shore. You can also fish in freshwater, with the lakes and rivers offering a good mix of Bluegill, Crappie and Catfish.

Kayak Fishing in Louisiana

You’ll be surprised at how many areas aren’t accessible when you look at Louisiana’s coast region. With all its brackish lakes and channels, there’s a lot to explore. Kayak fishing in Louisiana enables you to fish in places that might otherwise be difficult. 

Kayaks can also be silent so you can paddle slowly and monitor the water.  This way you’ll see any disturbances before you present your bait to the tailing Redfish.

This applies to freshwater fishing, too. For anglers who are looking for Bass, kayaks are a popular choice. It is important to pay attention to the weather conditions and the sun. 

You will need to be able to stand up and cast your kayak. Once you are proficient at this, you will be able to enjoy the most exciting way to fish in Louisiana.

Louisiana’s Top Fishing Spots

You may now be wondering where to start your Louisiana fishing adventures. There are many options. You’re sure to catch something with the high quality fishing available in this region of the South. Take a look at our top picks.

Saltwater Fishing Spots in Louisiana

• Venice: Venice, LA is the most well-known fishing town in Louisiana. Venice LA fishing offers some of the best angling. Inshore anglers will have a lot of fun fishing the marshes. Anglers who want to go Tuna fishing will have access to prime offshore spots like Midnight Lump.
• Grand Isle: Although not as well-known as Venice, Grand Isle has a lot to offer. You’ll find a variety of fish species in these waters including Trout and Redfish. If you want to fish offshore, you will have access to the Mississippi Canyon and other great spots.
• Lake Pontchartrain: Although it’s called a “lake”, Pontchartrain actually is an estuary. These waters are home to the world’s largest concentrations of Speckled Trout, Redfish and Redfish. Largemouth Bass will also be biting your line due to the lake’s brackishness.
• Calcasieu Lake: For anglers who want to catch big Speckled Trout there’s no better place than Calcasieu Lake. The lake produces specimens almost every day between 5-8 pounds. It’s easy for us to see why this species is on our list.

Freshwater Fishing Spots in Louisiana

• Toledo Bend Reservoir: On the Texas/Louisiana border, Toledo Bend is one the most prolific bass lakes in the US. This lake is a part of the prestigious Bassmaster Elite Series a number of times. You can catch Bass, Crappie, Catfish and many other species.
• Caddo Lake: Located around 100 miles north from Toledo Bend, Caddo Lake offers amazing Largemouth Bass fishing. The best time to catch a trophy is in spring. There are also many other species in the lake such as Sunfish, White Bass and Crappie.
• Ouachita River: With numerous rivers, lakes, bayous and backwaters, the Ouachita river has many hiding spots for Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass. Bayou D’arbonne, a popular spot for tournament and casual anglers, is a favorite. Crappie, Sunfish and various types of Catfish are some other fish that you might encounter.
• Atchafalaya River: If you are looking for the mysterious Paddlefish, Atchafalaya River is the place to go. This is where you might just hook into one of these prehistoric beasts. You’ll still have Bass and Catfish, Bluegill, Bluegill, Crappie, and Crappie to chase.

Louisiana Fishing Regulations

It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with Louisiana fishing laws before your trip. A fishing license is required in Louisiana for anglers 16 years old and older. You’ll need a basic permit or a saltwater permit depending on whether you are fishing in freshwater or saltwater.

These rules and regulations can change season to season when it comes to catch limits and size limits. Check the current regulations and then choose the species you’re after. This information can be found on Louisiana’s eRegulations.

Fishing in Louisiana Never Stops

The Bayou State is home to more than 40% of America’s wetlands. The cypress swamps, and all their wildlife, offer a rare outdoor experience for anyone who wants to get into nature. No matter the season, you’re likely to bring home some great catches when fishing in Louisiana. Then, you can simply find a catch and then enjoy the rewards of your angling adventure.