Family-Friendly Lake Pontchartrain Fishing Charter

Family Fun on Lake Pontchartrain's Inshore Waters

Ready to make some waves with the kids? Our 4-hour inshore fishing trip in Louisiana's Lake Pontchartrain Basin is tailor-made for families looking to reel in some quality time together. We've got room for up to 6 on board, so bring the whole crew for a day of casting lines and making memories in the beautiful bayous and marshes. Whether you're seasoned anglers or first-timers, our captain's got you covered with all the gear and know-how you need to land some local favorites like Speckled Trout and Redfish. So grab your sunscreen and let's hit the water for some good old-fashioned family fishing fun!

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: you're cruising through calm, winding waterways with the sun on your face and a rod in your hand. That's what you're in for on our family-friendly inshore charter. We'll weave through the maze-like bayous and marshes of the Lake Pontchartrain Basin, stopping at prime fishing spots along the way. Our seasoned captain knows these waters like the back of their hand, so you're in for a real treat. We keep things easy-going and fun, perfect for kiddos and adults alike who want to wet a line without any fuss. No need to worry about gear - we've got top-notch rods, reels, and bait all ready to go. Just show up ready to have a blast and maybe learn a thing or two about Louisiana's inshore fishing scene.

Fishing Tips for Inshore Success

Inshore fishing in the Lake Pontchartrain Basin is all about finesse and local know-how. We'll likely be using light tackle and live bait to entice those Speckled Trout and Redfish. Your captain might have you try a few different techniques depending on what's biting. You could be tossing soft plastics under a popping cork, which is a local favorite for trout. Or maybe we'll set up some bottom rigs with live shrimp for those hefty Black Drum. Don't worry if you're new to this - we'll walk you through every cast and retrieve. The key is to keep your line tight and be ready for that telltale tug. And hey, if the fish aren't jumping in the boat, we'll switch it up until we find what works. That's the beauty of inshore fishing - there's always another spot to try just around the bend.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Largemouth Bass: These bucket-mouthed brawlers are a staple in Louisiana's inshore waters. They love to hang out around structure, so we'll be targeting docks, fallen trees, and grass beds. Largemouth can put up a serious fight, especially on light tackle. They're most active in the early morning and late evening, making for some exciting topwater action. Kids love watching these fish smash lures on the surface - it's like fireworks on the water!

Black Drum: These bruisers are the bulldogs of the bayou. Black Drum can grow to impressive sizes, with some old-timers tipping the scales at over 100 pounds! We usually target the smaller "puppy drums" which are excellent eating. They've got a distinctive chin barbel that helps them root out crabs and shrimp from the bottom. When you hook one, get ready for a stubborn fight - these guys don't give up easily!

Sheepshead: Don't let their goofy grin fool you, Sheepshead are crafty opponents. These striped fish are nicknamed "convict fish" for their black and white bars. They're notorious bait stealers with their human-like teeth, perfect for crushing crabs and barnacles. Catching them requires a bit of finesse and patience, but the reward is some of the tastiest fillets you'll ever try. Spring is prime time for Sheepshead as they move inshore to spawn.

Sea Trout: Also known as Speckled Trout, these spotted beauties are a favorite among local anglers. They're known for their delicate flavor and the fun they provide on light tackle. Sea Trout often travel in schools, so when you find one, there's a good chance more are nearby. They love to ambush bait in deeper holes and along grass lines. The "gator" trout (the big ones) are a prized catch and make for some great fish stories.

Redfish: The crown jewel of inshore fishing in Louisiana, Redfish (or Red Drum) are what many anglers come here hoping to catch. These copper-colored fish with their distinctive spot near the tail are hard-fighting and great eating. We often find them "tailing" in shallow water, their backs breaking the surface as they root for crabs in the mud. Sight-casting to a tailing Redfish is an unforgettable experience, even for seasoned anglers. They're around all year, but fall is particularly good when they school up in big numbers.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Folks who fish with us tend to catch the inshore bug - and it's not hard to see why. There's something special about gliding through these shallow waters, surrounded by marsh grass and the calls of shorebirds. It's peaceful out here, but with the constant promise of excitement when a fish decides to play. Our trips are laid-back enough for the whole family to enjoy, but with plenty of opportunities for serious anglers to test their skills. Plus, the variety of fish we target means there's always something new to try for. Whether it's your first time holding a rod or you're a seasoned pro, these waters have a way of calling you back time and time again.

Time to Book Your Spot

So, what do you say? Ready to round up the family and head out for some inshore action? Our 4-hour trips are the perfect length to keep everyone engaged without overwhelming the little ones. Remember, we've got all the gear you need, so no worries if you're not decked out in fishing swag. Just bring your sense of adventure (and maybe a snack or two). Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Give us a call or book online to secure your family's spot on one of the best fishing charters Lake Pontchartrain has to offer. We can't wait to show you and your crew what inshore fishing in Louisiana is all about. See you on the water!