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Damn Good Flats Fishing Charters In Louisiana

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Louisiana flats fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked Flats Fishing Charters In Louisiana

Fishing in Boothville-Venice

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Boothville-Venice

Half Day Fishing Trip

100% (4)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $850
Fishing in New Orleans

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in New Orleans

Exploring The Louisiana Marsh

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $525
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Slidell

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Slidell

New Orleans Area Fishing Trip

100% (2)
25 ft 1 - 5 People From $500
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Slidell

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Slidell

New Orleans Fishing Excursion

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $500
Fishing in Lafitte

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Lafitte

Overnight Bayou Adventure

NEW
32 ft 1 - 10 People From $2,100
Fishing in Saint Bernard

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Saint Bernard

New Orleans Nighttime Bowfishing

100% (2)
20 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,300

Top Cities for Flats Fishing in Louisiana

Top Types of Flats Trips in Louisiana

Top Species for Flats Fishing in Louisiana

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More Flats Fishing Charters In Louisiana

Fishing in Saint Bernard
Fishing in Saint Bernard
Fishing in Saint Bernard
trip description for New Orleans Bowfishing & Angling in Saint Bernard

Come on down and experience the best of both worlds on this combination bowfishing and angling trip! Why choose one when you can do both? You'll start off the afternoon on board a 26' Caymas center console bay boat chasing Speckled Trout, Redfish, Sheepshead, and Black Drum. You'll leave the dock about 3 hours before sunset for your rod & reel fishing charter and enjoy the sunset while catching Louisiana's most popular fish. At sunset, you'll meet Captain Chris on the bayou, where you will hop on board a custom 20' airboat to continue your night of bowfishing for the next 3 hours. You trip will last approximately 6 hours. This combo rod & reel and bowfishing charter is perfect for customers who want to experience it all but do not want to stay out late into the night. Its the perfect opportunity to enjoy both styles of fishing in one trip! Fuel, bait, ice, rods, reels, bows, arrows, tackle, and fishing cleaning services are included. More time may be added to the beginning of your trip or the end of your trip. If you would like to do 4 or 5 hours of rod and reel fishing prior to the bowfishing charter, or if you would like to add an extra hour or two to the bowfishing charter, you may do so by requesting additional time prior to your trip. Additional time may be added at $200 per hour for the entire group! Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Saint Bernard

New Orleans Bowfishing & Angling

100% (2)
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,725
Fishing in Saint Bernard
Fishing in Saint Bernard
Fishing in Saint Bernard
trip description for Sportsman’s Paradise Trip in Saint Bernard

If you're planning on fishing in Southeast Louisiana and are looking for a top-notch fishing charter, come fish with the best! Whether you're just visiting the New Orleans area and looking for an enjoyable family outing, or a dedicated angler hoping to bag a trophy, Captain Mike has got you covered. On the day of your trip, you will be fishing out of Captain Mike's fish out of a 26' Caymas hybrid bay boat powered by a 300 Mercury. This shallow-draft fishing vessel is ideal for inshore angling, and you'll be able to maneuver around the marshes, channels, and flats with ease. Throughout spring, summer, and fall Captain Mike likes to target Redfish, Speckled Trout, Black Drum, Tripletail, Sheepshead, and Flounder. During certain seasonal months, he also goes after Snapper and Cobia! Starting in early spring he switches his focus to the southern edge of Delacroix, north hitting deeper marshes and channels and targeting Redfish, Speckled Trout, Black Drum, and Sheepshead. As the waters warm up, he will move further out, chasing the bait from Delacroix to Hopedale to Shell Beach. This allows him and his clients to get on some great Speckled Trout and Redfish bites! As water temperatures rise in the springtime, the action takes him to cleaner waters in search of large schools of Speckled Trout, plus tons of Flounder. Once water temperatures reach a certain level, he likes to go further out to the outer marshes and surrounding areas. This is where he goes to target Bull Reds, Speckled Trout and Tripletail! When you book a trip, you can be confident that Captain Mike will do the utmost to put you on some of the best fishing of your life! Southeast Louisiana isn't called the "Sportman's Paradise" for nothing, and the fishing here is truly legendary. Get out there and have the time of your life with Captain Mike! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Saint Bernard

Sportsman’s Paradise Trip

100% (2)
26 ft 1 - 5 People From $750
Fishing in Lafitte
Fishing in Lafitte
Fishing in Lafitte
trip description for Afternoon Shallow Water Assault in Lafitte

Spend the afternoon exploring the saltwater flats of southeast Louisiana! Join Captain Gavin in the twisting marshlands filled with fish just waiting to be caught. The drive from New Orleans is only an hour, so spend your afternoon on a beautiful boat with a line in the water before you return home with fresh fish for dinner. The trip targets the Flounder, Redfish, Trout, Black Drum, and Sheepshead that dominate the marshy flats outside Lafitte. These fish are a tasteful delicacy which are even more delicious when fresh-caught. Bring a cooler to keep your catch fresh for the ride home and get them on the grill! You should also bring snacks, drinks, sun protection, appropriate clothing, and a valid Louisiana Fishing License. Captain Gavin will provide everything else such as rods, bait, and light tackle. On board the 24’ Express Bay Boat you will have a comfortable and smooth ride. The 250HP Yamaha engine cuts through the smooth water, taking you to the best fishing holes. Captain Gavin will take you to the best spots quickly since his knowledge of the area is extensive. After spending an amazing day on the water, you can watch the beautiful Louisiana bayou sunset and hit the grill for a delicious dinner! If you choose, Captain Gavin is happy to clean and cook your catch for you, at an additional fee of $30 per person. Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Lafitte

Afternoon Shallow Water Assault

NEW
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $750
Fishing in Hopedale
Fishing in Hopedale
Fishing in Hopedale
trip description for Hopedale Redfish On the Fly in Hopedale

Come join Captain John for the fly fishing adventure of a lifetime! On this full-day trip, Captain John will be your host as you fish and explore the Mississippi River delta, south of New Orleans. The focus is Redfish, specifically giant "bull" Redfish. Nothing compares to the thrill of watching 30 pound Red crawling, backing, and tailing on super clear, skinny water flats of the Mississippi River delta! You'll also have the opportunity to target oversized Black Drum and Sheepshead. Most days, these fish will readily eat just about any fly cast in front of them. That’s not to say these fish are easy, though. It takes quick accurate casts to get the fly in front of the fish. Whether this is your first trip or you’re a seasoned veteran to these waters, Captain John will take you hotspots and show you tips you won't soon forget! You'll be fishing aboard a 24' Yellowfin bay boat that can hold up to 2 guests. Powered by a 300 HP Mercury Verado engine, this vessel will bounce you around the Louisiana flats with ease! She comes complete with GPS, Fishfinder, a Live Bait Well and snorkeling equipment. Captain John will provide all rods, reels, tackle and flies. All you need to bring is a Louisiana fishing license. We also recommend bringing polarized glasses (possibly the most important piece of equipment besides the flyrod), sunscreen, a camera and appropriate clothing for the conditions. Goretex jackets and bibs are appropriate for all seasons. If you want to bring your own rod, Captain John recommends 8, 9, & 10wt fly rods with weight forward floating line and your favorite flies. Book your trip today and get ready to catch some massive Redfish! Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Hopedale

Hopedale Redfish On The Fly

NEW
24 ft 1 - 2 People From $800
Fishing in New Orleans
Fishing in New Orleans
Fishing in New Orleans
trip description for New Orleans Shallow Water Slam in New Orleans

Captain Armando has been guiding trips in south Louisianna for the past 3 years. There is something about the Sportsman's Paradise that brings him back year after year! Armando specializes in coastal fishing with light tackle putting his clients on Redfish, Flounder, Black Drum, Sheephead (Bay Snapper), Trout, and a variety of other gulf coast fish as well. Captain Armando is always willing to cater to your species of choice, but will provide the best advice for which bite is hottest that day! He invites you to join him aboard his 23' Pathfinder equipped with 250 HP Yamaha, Trolling Motor, Live Bait Wells, and all the latest safety equipment. On your trip you will explore the beautiful and remote fishery that is Louisiana's Sportsman's Paradise! Socked with Redfish, Trout, Sheepshead, and Flounder! Make sure you bring a valid Louisiana saltwater fishing license, food and drinks of your choice, a hat, sunscreen, and an ice chest to take home your day’s catch. Captain Armando will provide all of the rods, reels, lures, and will clean your catch for you at the end of the day. He does all this so all you have to do is focus on having a great time! Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in New Orleans

New Orleans Shallow Water Slam

NEW
23 ft 1 - 5 People From $850
Fishing in Saint Bernard
Fishing in Saint Bernard
Fishing in Saint Bernard
trip description for Sight Fishing For Redfish - Fly Or Spin in Saint Bernard

Why choose Will? Will is a Louisiana native and lifelong fisherman with intimate knowledge of his home estuary and the fish therein. Whether it be on fly or spin tackle, his focus is shallow water sight fishing for redfish throughout the inshore marshes of South Louisiana. Will runs a plush East Cape Evo 18’ poling skiff making the long runs here in comfort, stocked with top of the line fly and spin gear rigged with the local favorites redfish can’t get enough of. He is usually chasing bulls on the outer fringes, but on those blustery days slot fish on the inside provide endless entertainment. As a licensed and fully insured USCG Captain, Will safely navigates the ever changing labyrinth of bayous, bays, and ponds that make up the beautiful South Louisiana marsh making sure everyone gets back in one piece. What to expect on your trip? Depending on the time of year, expect to leave the dock between 6am and 8am. We will leave earlier during the summer months and later during the winter. From there, a 30 to 45 minute run out into the marsh will put us in prime redfish territory. Since my primary focus is sight fishing, that is seeing an individual fish and presenting a fly/lure to the fish, most fishing will take place in 3 feet of water or less. This style of fishing requires stealth, so I am often on the back of the boat atop the poling platform, quietly pushing us along as you stand on the bow at the ready. I am usually the first to spot a fish due to my high vantage point, so I will communicate with you to establish the location of the fish using a clock bearing and a distance. You will hear something like “3 o’clock, 30 feet from the boat, he’s heading away from us”. Once spotted, you will then present your fly/lure to the fish, hopefully resulting in an explosive eat! What is sight fishing? Traditionally, fishing involves a lot of casting and covering water. If you cover enough water, you will eventually put your fly/lure/bait in front of a hungry fish and he will bite. Sight fishing is a bit of a departure from that and is more akin to hunting than fishing. When sight fishing, one quietly moves through the water actively looking for and stalking fish. Once a fish is spotted, the fly/lure is presented to the fish with an accurate cast, hopefully resulting in an eat. Redfish make a great sight fishing quarry due to their preference for prowling shallow water environments and reveal themselves in a variety of exciting ways. They can “Tail”, which happens when they tip down to feed off the bottom and their caudal fin breaks the surface of the water - a clear sign of a happily feeding fish. They can “Crawl”, navigating water so shallow that their backs and dorsal fins can clearly be seen above the surface as they swim along. Some less obvious signs of the presence of redfish include “Pushes”, a bull nosed wake steadily proceeding down the shoreline, as well as “Busting Bait”, when the water erupts along a shoreline as some poor shrimp transitions to the spirit world. My personal favorite however occurs during the late summer and into the fall when massive Bull Reds school up. These schools can readily be identified as dozens of fish boil the water in a feeding frenzy, breaching the surface chasing shrimp and attracting a flock of diving birds overhead. What is included? All fishing gear and tackle is included. My skiff is stocked with multiple fly rod setups in various weights for the size of fish and wind we will be encountering as well as spinning gear for those that prefer not to fly fish. You are welcome to bring and use your own rods and gear though. I will have a cooler stocked with plenty of water and assorted beverages, but feel free to bring whatever you prefer. Lunch - I will be in contact with menu options Fuel and launch fees are included in the price of the trip. Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Saint Bernard

Sight Fishing For Redfish - Fly Or Spin

NEW
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $550
See All Flats Trips in Louisiana

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Everything to Know About Booking a Louisiana flats fishing charter

What are the best flats fishing charters in Louisiana?

Why should I book a flats fishing charter in Louisiana with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 32 flats trips in Louisiana, and the most popular trips in the area are Half Day Fishing Trip guided by Jace, Exploring the Louisiana Marsh guided by Brad, and New Orleans Area Fishing Trip guided by Mike.

Our guides in Louisiana are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3505 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly flats guides / fishing lessons in Louisiana? Check out our beginner and family friendly flats guides in Louisiana.

What types of flats fishing charters are common in Louisiana?

The most commonly sought after species for flats fishing are: 1. redfish, 2. speckled trout, 3. black drum, 4. flounder, and 5. sheepshead.

The most common fishing techniques in Louisiana are light tackle fishing, artificial lure fishing, and sight casting but live bait fishing and bottom fishing are popular as well.

How much do Louisiana flats fishing charters cost?

Prices for flats fishing in Louisiana can range anywhere from about $600 to $2,250, but the average price for a half day trip for flats fishing in Louisiana is $1,121. The average price for a full day trip for flats fishing in Louisiana is $1,199.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for flats fishing in Louisiana?

The most popular season for flats fishing in Louisiana is spring, and most anglers book their trips 25 days in advance.

Do I need a Louisiana fishing license and what are the bag limits in Louisiana?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Louisiana, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Louisiana. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Louisiana.

What is flats fishing in Louisiana all about?

Flats fishing in Louisiana provides anglers with a unique and rewarding experience in the state's expansive coastal marshes, bays, and estuaries. Known for its rich biodiversity and extensive wetlands, Louisiana offers diverse opportunities for targeting a variety of saltwater species amidst scenic and often remote landscapes. Flats fishing in Louisiana typically revolves around shallow, brackish waters where fish like redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and sheepshead thrive year-round.

One of the defining aspects of flats fishing in Louisiana is the abundance of redfish, also known as red drum, which are prized for their aggressive strikes and strong fighting ability. These fish frequent the shallow marshes, grass flats, and oyster beds, making them accessible to anglers using techniques such as sight fishing or casting with live bait and artificial lures. Redfish are particularly active during cooler months when they gather in large schools, providing anglers with ample opportunities to catch these iconic gamefish.

Speckled trout are another prominent species targeted by flats anglers in Louisiana. These silvery fish with distinct black spots are commonly found in estuaries, along grassy flats, and near tidal creeks where they feed on shrimp, mullet, and small fish. Anglers often use light spinning tackle or fly fishing gear to cast soft plastics, spoons, or topwater lures to entice speckled trout strikes. Flats fishing in Louisiana combines the thrill of hunting and fishing in pristine coastal environments, offering anglers a chance to connect with nature while pursuing a variety of challenging and rewarding saltwater species.

What are the most popular months to go flats fishing in Louisiana?

Flats fishing seasons in Louisiana are influenced by the state's subtropical climate and the migratory patterns of various saltwater species that inhabit its expansive coastal waters. The prime flats fishing season typically extends from spring through fall, aligning with periods when water temperatures are optimal for fish activity and spawning. During this time, anglers target species such as redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and sheepshead in Louisiana's shallow marshes, estuaries, and brackish waters.

Spring marks the beginning of flats fishing season in Louisiana, characterized by warming waters and increased fish activity as species like redfish and speckled trout become more active in shallow coastal habitats. Anglers often find success sight fishing for redfish along grass flats and oyster bars, using techniques that include casting with live bait or lures designed to mimic local prey. Speckled trout are also abundant during this season, particularly in tidal creeks and nearshore areas where they feed voraciously after the winter months.

Summer in Louisiana offers prime conditions for flats fishing as water temperatures rise, prompting species like flounder and sheepshead to move into shallow waters to feed. Flounder, known for their camouflage and ambush tactics, are often targeted around oyster beds and sandy bottoms using live bait rigs or jigs bounced along the bottom. Sheepshead, with their distinctive teeth and preference for crustaceans, can be found around pilings, jetties, and submerged structures where anglers present baits with precision to entice strikes. Successful flats fishing during Louisiana's summer months often requires anglers to adapt to changing tidal currents and weather conditions while taking advantage of the diverse fishing opportunities offered by the state's coastal ecosystems.

What techniques are popular for flats fishing in Louisiana?

Flats fishing in Louisiana encompasses a variety of types and techniques tailored to the state's unique coastal environments and the behaviors of targeted saltwater species. One popular method among anglers is sight fishing, where they visually spot fish such as redfish or speckled trout cruising or feeding in shallow, clear waters. This technique requires patience, keen observation, and often stealthy approaches to avoid spooking the fish. Anglers use light spinning or fly fishing tackle to present artificial lures or flies with precision, aiming for accurate casts that entice strikes from these wary gamefish.

Another effective technique in Louisiana flats fishing is using live bait such as shrimp, crabs, or small baitfish rigged to mimic natural prey movements. Live bait fishing is particularly effective for species like redfish, which are known for their aggressive feeding habits and preference for live or cut bait presented near marsh edges, oyster beds, or grass flats. Anglers rig baits with weights or floats to adjust for water depth and current, ensuring natural presentation that increases the likelihood of a successful hook-up.

In addition to sight fishing and live bait presentations, Louisiana flats fishing also includes techniques like drift fishing or working artificial structures such as oyster reefs and submerged vegetation. Anglers drift with the current or tide, casting into likely fish-holding areas and allowing baits or lures to naturally move with the water flow. This method is effective for targeting various species including flounder and sheepshead, which often inhabit areas with subtle currents and bottom structures where they can find food and shelter. Overall, the diversity of techniques in Louisiana flats fishing allows anglers to adapt to changing conditions and maximize their chances of encountering and hooking into prized saltwater species in the state's rich and dynamic coastal ecosystems.

What species are popular for flats fishing in Louisiana?

When flats fishing in Louisiana, anglers have the opportunity to target a diverse array of saltwater species that thrive in the state's expansive coastal marshes, estuaries, and shallow bays. One of the most sought-after species is the redfish, or red drum, known for its bronze-colored scales and robust fighting ability. Redfish are abundant throughout Louisiana's marshy flats and can be targeted year-round using a variety of techniques, including sight fishing with artificial lures or live bait presentations near oyster beds and grassy shorelines.

Speckled trout, also known as spotted seatrout, are another prized catch among Louisiana flats anglers. These silvery fish with distinct black spots are commonly found in estuarine waters, tidal creeks, and along grass flats where they feed on shrimp and small baitfish. Anglers often use light spinning tackle or fly fishing gear to cast soft plastics, spoons, or topwater lures to entice strikes from speckled trout, particularly during spring and summer when they are most active and accessible in shallow waters.

Flounder are also popular targets during Louisiana flats fishing excursions, known for their flat bodies and ability to blend seamlessly with sandy or muddy bottoms. These ambush predators can be found near oyster reefs, bridge pilings, and along channel edges where they wait to ambush passing prey. Anglers typically use live bait rigs or jigs bounced along the bottom to entice strikes from flounder, adding an element of skill and anticipation to their fishing experience in Louisiana's dynamic coastal habitats. Overall, flats fishing in Louisiana offers anglers the chance to pursue a variety of challenging and rewarding saltwater species while exploring the state's scenic and diverse coastal waters.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Jace was awesome. Communicated well, was right on time, and took us right to the fish. Definitely recommend.

    Eli P. | March 25, 2024

    Trip: Half Day Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Had an awesome time! Highly recommend!

    James P. | October 7, 2023

    Trip: Half Day Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Brad was great! The fishing was amazing. It was easy and convenient to set up the trip. My husband and son had a fantastic time. It was definitely the highlight of our trip!

    Sarah E. | September 4, 2023

    Trip: Exploring the Louisiana Marsh

  • ★★★★★
    Jace is a great captain, he knew exactly where the fish were and we had non stop action. We went on a MEAT HUNT.

    Brad G. | June 12, 2023

    Trip: Half Day Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Jace is an awesome captain. He knows where the fish are. He made it a great experience for my wife and I. I highly recommend him for and fishing you plan to do.

    Erik C. | February 23, 2023

    Trip: Half Day Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Mike was Professional, Punctual and productive !! I will definitely use him again when I come to New Orleans. He has us limits out in an off season. He did not try to oversell us initially and then totally exceeded our expectations. To top it off were eating fresh fish less than thirty minutes after we were docked !! Thank You ! Captain mike

    Eric H. | February 11, 2023

    Trip: New Orleans Fishing Excursion

  • ★★★★★
    We booked a trip with Captain Mike for a bachelor party, and we had an absolute blast. We caught fish, we cracked jokes, and we made some awesome memories. We will be booking with Captain Mike again soon

    Andrew N. | January 24, 2023

    Trip: New Orleans Fishing Excursion

Other Types of Fishing in Louisiana

Other Types of Hunting in Louisiana

How are fishing conditions in Louisiana?

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