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Damn Good Lake Charles Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Lake Charles fishing trips. Inshore, Lake, River, Jetty, and Flats trips available.

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Recently Booked Fishing Charters Near Lake Charles, La

Fishing in Lake Charles

Inshore Fishing Charter in Lake Charles

Full Day Or Half Day Trip

NEW
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $600
Fishing, Hunting in Sulphur

Duck, Flats, Inshore Fishing, Hunting Charter near Lake Charles

Cast And Blast Special

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $1,400
Fishing in Groves

Inshore, Lake, River Fishing Charter near Lake Charles

Sabine Lake Live Action

NEW
18 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Port Arthur

Inshore, Lake Fishing Charter near Lake Charles

Sabine Lake Redfish And Trout

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Fishing in Sulphur

Inshore Fishing Charter near Lake Charles

Calcasieu Lake Inshore Frenzy

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in Sulphur

Inshore Fishing Charter near Lake Charles

Overnight Calcasieu Lake Slam

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $850

Most Popular Types of Trips in Lake Charles

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Fishing Charters Near Lake Charles, La

Fishing in Sulphur
Fishing in Sulphur
Fishing in Sulphur
trip description for Overnight Calcasieu Lake Slam in Sulphur

Get out on the brackish water of Calcasieu Lake with Captain Tommy to hunt down some champion Redfish, Drum, Flounder, and Spotted Seatrout! He's an expert in fishing these inshore Louisiana waters and will make sure to put you on some record-setting fish. When fishing with Captain Tommy, you’ll put your light tackle to work, reeling in picture-worthy fish from his best spots. On this trip, lodging is provided so that you can get an extra-early start for those first bites of the day. Have a friend that wants to join but isn't to keen on waking up early to fish? No problem! While Captain Tommy's boat first three, the lodging on this trip will fit up to four people, so bring some good company! Captain Tommy conducts these trips using his 24’ Nautic Star center console which can accommodate up to three anglers. This vessel will get you to those shallow hotspots and makes for a smooth ride to and from your destination. The boat is also equipped with a GPS, Fishfinder, Live Bait Well, Wireless Trolling Motor, and an Ice Box to store your catches. Your captain will provide all rods, reels, tackle, and lures. You can opt to get live shrimp for an added cost. Meals are not included on this trip so remember to bring food; you'll need it! And make sure you bring a valid Louisiana saltwater fishing license. Get ready for an exciting day of fishing with Captain Tommy! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter near Lake Charles

Overnight Calcasieu Lake Slam

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $850
Fishing in Sulphur
Fishing in Sulphur
Fishing in Sulphur
trip description for Calcasieu Lake Inshore Frenzy in Sulphur

If you’ve never fished the Louisiana inshore, you’re missing out. These productive waters are home to Black Drum, Flounder, Redfish, Sheepshead, Speckled Trout, and more. On this 7-hour action-packed adventure, Captain Tommy will help you reel ‘em all in at Calcasieu Lake! If you're from out of town, Calcasieu Lake isn't a true freshwater lake, but actually a brackish inlet home to some killer saltwater species. No matter your skill level, Captain Tommy will lead the way. Expect to use light tackle to lure in as many picture-worthy fish as possible. Captain Tommy is happy to clean and filet the fish free of charge for a tasty home meal. On the morning of the trip, you'll get on the water aboard his 24’ Nautic Star center console which can accommodate up to 3 anglers. This vessel will get you to those shallow hotspots and makes for a smooth ride to and from your destination. The boat is also equipped with a GPS, Fishfinder, Live Bait Well, Wireless Trolling Motor, and an Ice Box to store your catches. Your captain will provide all rods, reels, tackle, and lures. You can opt to get live shrimp for an added cost. Meals are not included on this trip so remember to bring any food you might need. And make sure you bring a valid Louisiana saltwater fishing license. Get ready for an exciting day of fishing with Captain Tommy! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter near Lake Charles

Calcasieu Lake Inshore Frenzy

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in Port Arthur
Fishing in Port Arthur
Fishing in Port Arthur
trip description for Sabine Lake Redfish and Trout in Port Arthur

Head out with Captain Chris for an outstanding experience out on Sabine Lake. This fishery is a renowned fishing destination known for its booming Redfish, Trout, and Flounder populations. Not to mention Ling and Tripletail can also be caught around the nearshore gas platforms in the Gulf of Mexico. When you go out with Captain Chris aboard his 25' Contender you can expect to use a myriad of different methods to hook into these fish. From drifting the lake with cut baits to sight fishing tailing reds, Captain Chris does it all and will recommend the best method given the conditions and tide movements the day of. Captain Chris is the best choice when Booking Lake Sabine Texas Fishing Guides because of the quality of service you will receive. When fishing with Captain Chris and his crew all you need to bring is your Texas fishing license (or Louisianna depending on which side of the lake you want to fish), food, sunblock, and your choice of clothing depending on the weather. Captain Chris provides all of the poles, reels, and bait you could possibly need for an exciting and action-packed Lake Sabine Fishing Trip! Read More

Inshore, Lake Fishing Charter near Lake Charles

Sabine Lake Redfish And Trout

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Fishing in Groves
Fishing in Groves
Fishing in Groves
trip description for Sabine Lake Live Action in Groves

On this trip with Captain Randy, you can expect to chase down all kinds of inshore sportfish! He's an expert angler, and can help you catch fish using a variety of different methods, depending on the conditions and your goals for the day. Whether you want to chase Redfish, Speckled Trout, or Flounder, Captain Randy can hook you up! There's really no better choice when booking Lake Sabine guides because of the quality of service you will receive. When fishing with Captain Randy and his crew, all you need to bring is your Texas or Louisiana fishing license, food, and sunblock. Captain Randy provides all of the poles, reels, and bait you could possibly need for an exciting and action-packed Lake Sabine fishing trip! Read More

Inshore, Lake, River Fishing Charter near Lake Charles

Sabine Lake Live Action

NEW
18 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing, Hunting in Sulphur
Fishing, Hunting in Sulphur
Fishing, Hunting in Sulphur
trip description for Cast and Blast Special in Sulphur

On this cast and blast adventure, you'll combine the best sporting opportunities in South Louisiana, bagging birds all morning and then going on an epic saltwater fishing trip in the afternoon! In terms of duck hunting, Sulphur, LA is right between the Central and the Mississippi flyways, making it a perfect place to bring down a ton of birds! The sheltered bays here draw hundreds of thousands of ducks annually, including Green-Winged and Blue-Winged Teals, Wigeons, Redheads, Pintails, Gadwalls, and Mottled Ducks, and more! You can target all of these species, which are exciting hunting and great eating to boot! On this trip, your guide, Tommy, will make sure to put you in the perfect spot to nail some inbound waterfowl. He'll provide the decoys and will brush in your blind, so all you need to bring is your waders, your guns, and your shells. Tommy has has an excellent eye, so once you've hit your limit on one species, he can help point out other viable targets before they're in-range. Stay on the right side of the law and help protect the resource by only shooting what you're allowed! The Louisiana region is also a fisherman's paradise, with abundant opportunities to catch Redfish, Trout, Sheepshead, and more in the shallow backwater and marshes. On this charter fishing trip, guests can experience the thrill of reeling in these exciting and delicious fish, which are a blast to catch for any saltwater angler! After a day of fishing, guests will return to the dock with their catch, which can be cleaned and filleted by the captain. Go home with some great birds, a cooler full of fish, and a camera full of lifelong memories! Read More

Duck, Flats, Inshore Fishing, Hunting Charter near Lake Charles

Cast And Blast Special

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $1,400
Fishing in Lake Charles
Fishing in Lake Charles
Fishing in Lake Charles
trip description for Full Day Or Half Day Trip in Lake Charles

Come to Calcasieu Lake, and join Captain Jordan. He is a native to Lake Charles and has spent his life on the water. Trips include the use of rods, reels, tackle, and lures. Live bait can be purchased at an extra cost if you’d like. Captain Jordan is happy to show you his preferred techniques, such as bottom fishing, drift fishing, jigging, and popping, that will prepare you to get hooking and start reelin’ as soon as possible. He specializes in catching Speckled Trout, Redfish, Sheepshead, Black Drum, and Flounder. There’s also a cleaning and filleting service on board that will make sure your catch is ready to cook when you get home. Captain Jordan offers half and full day charters, and he can organize a pick-up if you are staying at one of the local casinos Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Lake Charles

Full Day Or Half Day Trip

NEW
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $600
See All Trips in Lake Charles

Other Trips in Lake Charles

Fishing in Sulphur
Fishing in Sulphur
Fishing in Sulphur
trip description for Calcasieu Lake Inshore Frenzy in Sulphur

If you’ve never fished the Louisiana inshore, you’re missing out. These productive waters are home to Black Drum, Flounder, Redfish, Sheepshead, Speckled Trout, and more. On this 7-hour action-packed adventure, Captain Tommy will help you reel ‘em all in at Calcasieu Lake! If you're from out of town, Calcasieu Lake isn't a true freshwater lake, but actually a brackish inlet home to some killer saltwater species. No matter your skill level, Captain Tommy will lead the way. Expect to use light tackle to lure in as many picture-worthy fish as possible. Captain Tommy is happy to clean and filet the fish free of charge for a tasty home meal. On the morning of the trip, you'll get on the water aboard his 24’ Nautic Star center console which can accommodate up to 3 anglers. This vessel will get you to those shallow hotspots and makes for a smooth ride to and from your destination. The boat is also equipped with a GPS, Fishfinder, Live Bait Well, Wireless Trolling Motor, and an Ice Box to store your catches. Your captain will provide all rods, reels, tackle, and lures. You can opt to get live shrimp for an added cost. Meals are not included on this trip so remember to bring any food you might need. And make sure you bring a valid Louisiana saltwater fishing license. Get ready for an exciting day of fishing with Captain Tommy! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter near Lake Charles

Calcasieu Lake Inshore Frenzy

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in Sulphur
Fishing in Sulphur
Fishing in Sulphur
trip description for Overnight Calcasieu Lake Slam in Sulphur

Get out on the brackish water of Calcasieu Lake with Captain Tommy to hunt down some champion Redfish, Drum, Flounder, and Spotted Seatrout! He's an expert in fishing these inshore Louisiana waters and will make sure to put you on some record-setting fish. When fishing with Captain Tommy, you’ll put your light tackle to work, reeling in picture-worthy fish from his best spots. On this trip, lodging is provided so that you can get an extra-early start for those first bites of the day. Have a friend that wants to join but isn't to keen on waking up early to fish? No problem! While Captain Tommy's boat first three, the lodging on this trip will fit up to four people, so bring some good company! Captain Tommy conducts these trips using his 24’ Nautic Star center console which can accommodate up to three anglers. This vessel will get you to those shallow hotspots and makes for a smooth ride to and from your destination. The boat is also equipped with a GPS, Fishfinder, Live Bait Well, Wireless Trolling Motor, and an Ice Box to store your catches. Your captain will provide all rods, reels, tackle, and lures. You can opt to get live shrimp for an added cost. Meals are not included on this trip so remember to bring food; you'll need it! And make sure you bring a valid Louisiana saltwater fishing license. Get ready for an exciting day of fishing with Captain Tommy! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter near Lake Charles

Overnight Calcasieu Lake Slam

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $850
Fishing in Sulphur
Fishing in Sulphur
Fishing in Sulphur
trip description for Louisiana Inshore Classic in Sulphur

If you’ve never fished the Louisiana inshore, you’re missing out. These productive waters are home to Black Drum, Flounder, Sheepshead, Speckled Trout, and more. When fishing with Captain Tommy, you’ll put your light tackle to work reeling in these picture-worthy fish. Captain Tommy conducts his trips using his 24’ Nautic Star center console which can accommodate up to 3 anglers. This vessel will get you to those shallow hotspots and makes for a smooth ride to and from your destination. The boat is also equipped with a GPS, Fishfinder, Live Bait Well, Wireless Trolling Motor, and an Ice Box to store your catches. Your captain will provide all rods, reels, tackle, and lures. You can opt to get live shrimp for an added cost. Make sure you bring a valid Louisiana saltwater fishing license. Get ready for an exciting day of fishing with Captain Tommy! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter near Lake Charles

Louisiana Inshore Classic

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $500
Fishing, Hunting in Sulphur
Fishing, Hunting in Sulphur
Fishing, Hunting in Sulphur
trip description for Cast and Blast Special in Sulphur

On this cast and blast adventure, you'll combine the best sporting opportunities in South Louisiana, bagging birds all morning and then going on an epic saltwater fishing trip in the afternoon! In terms of duck hunting, Sulphur, LA is right between the Central and the Mississippi flyways, making it a perfect place to bring down a ton of birds! The sheltered bays here draw hundreds of thousands of ducks annually, including Green-Winged and Blue-Winged Teals, Wigeons, Redheads, Pintails, Gadwalls, and Mottled Ducks, and more! You can target all of these species, which are exciting hunting and great eating to boot! On this trip, your guide, Tommy, will make sure to put you in the perfect spot to nail some inbound waterfowl. He'll provide the decoys and will brush in your blind, so all you need to bring is your waders, your guns, and your shells. Tommy has has an excellent eye, so once you've hit your limit on one species, he can help point out other viable targets before they're in-range. Stay on the right side of the law and help protect the resource by only shooting what you're allowed! The Louisiana region is also a fisherman's paradise, with abundant opportunities to catch Redfish, Trout, Sheepshead, and more in the shallow backwater and marshes. On this charter fishing trip, guests can experience the thrill of reeling in these exciting and delicious fish, which are a blast to catch for any saltwater angler! After a day of fishing, guests will return to the dock with their catch, which can be cleaned and filleted by the captain. Go home with some great birds, a cooler full of fish, and a camera full of lifelong memories! Read More

Duck, Flats, Inshore Fishing, Hunting Charter near Lake Charles

Cast And Blast Special

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $1,400
Fishing in Lake Charles
Fishing in Lake Charles
Fishing in Lake Charles
trip description for Full Day Or Half Day Trip in Lake Charles

Come to Calcasieu Lake, and join Captain Jordan. He is a native to Lake Charles and has spent his life on the water. Trips include the use of rods, reels, tackle, and lures. Live bait can be purchased at an extra cost if you’d like. Captain Jordan is happy to show you his preferred techniques, such as bottom fishing, drift fishing, jigging, and popping, that will prepare you to get hooking and start reelin’ as soon as possible. He specializes in catching Speckled Trout, Redfish, Sheepshead, Black Drum, and Flounder. There’s also a cleaning and filleting service on board that will make sure your catch is ready to cook when you get home. Captain Jordan offers half and full day charters, and he can organize a pick-up if you are staying at one of the local casinos Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Lake Charles

Full Day Or Half Day Trip

NEW
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $600
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed / operated by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Hunting in Kinder
Hunting in Kinder
Hunting in Kinder
trip description for Sout West Louisiana Teal Hunt in Kinder

We offer amazing September teal hunts. We have tons of different blinds to ensure that you will be amongst the birds. We will usually be hunting out of well brushed pit blinds. These blinds will keep you out of the water and protected from the elements. We also offer lodging upon request which is just a short drive to all of our blinds. Minimum 4 hunters. Read More

Duck Hunting Trip near Lake Charles

Sout West Louisiana Teal Hunt

NEW
1 - 6 People From $675

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Lake Charles

What are the best fishing charters in Lake Charles?

Why should I book a fishing charter in Lake Charles with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 6 trip in Lake Charles: Full Day Or Half Day Trip guided by Jordan.

Our guides in Lake Charles are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3463 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and 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 charters / fishing lessons in Lake Charles? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Lake Charles.

What types of fishing charters are common in Lake Charles?

Inshore fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Lake Charles as well as lake fishing, river fishing, and jetty fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Lake Charles are: 1. speckled trout, 2. flounder, 3. redfish, 4. black drum, and 5. sheepshead.

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

How much do Lake Charles fishing charters cost?

Prices in Lake Charles can range anywhere from about $520 to $1,260, but the average price for a half day trip in Lake Charles is $736. The average price for a full day trip in Lake Charles is $843.

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 fishing in Lake Charles?

The most popular season for fishing in Lake Charles is spring, and most anglers book their trips 24 days in advance.

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

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

What is fishing in Lake Charles all about?

Fishing in Lake Charles, Louisiana, offers a diverse and rewarding experience due to the area's rich aquatic ecosystems. The lake and its surrounding waters provide ample opportunities for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Lake Charles itself is known for its variety of fish species, including bass, crappie, and catfish. Anglers can enjoy fishing from the shore, docks, or boats, making it a versatile location for different fishing techniques. The lake's scenic beauty adds to the appeal, creating a pleasant environment for a day on the water.

In addition to Lake Charles, the nearby Calcasieu River and its tributaries offer excellent fishing opportunities. The river's varied habitats, from deep pools to shallow flats, support a range of fish species. This includes not only bass and catfish but also species like the Louisiana Redfish, which can be found in the brackish waters closer to the Gulf. Fishing in the river can be particularly rewarding for those who enjoy exploring different types of water and fishing environments.

For those looking for saltwater fishing, the proximity of Lake Charles to the Gulf of Mexico provides access to a wide range of offshore and inshore species. Anglers can target species such as speckled trout, redfish, and flounder in the coastal estuaries and marshes. The area's extensive network of canals, bays, and coastal waters makes it an ideal destination for both novice and experienced fishermen seeking a varied fishing experience. Overall, Lake Charles offers a rich fishing experience with its diverse habitats and abundant fish species.

What are the most popular months to go fishing in Lake Charles?

Fishing in Lake Charles, Louisiana, is enjoyable year-round, thanks to its diverse aquatic environments and mild climate. The peak fishing seasons typically align with the cooler months, when many fish species are more active and feeding. From late spring through early fall, the warm waters of Lake Charles and its surrounding rivers attract anglers targeting species such as bass, crappie, and catfish. This period is ideal for both freshwater fishing in the lake and for venturing into nearby brackish and saltwater areas.

In the winter months, fishing in Lake Charles can still be productive, especially for species like catfish and bass, which are active in the cooler temperatures. While fishing activity may slow down compared to the warmer months, anglers can still enjoy a successful day on the water with the right techniques. Winter fishing often requires adjusting tactics, such as fishing deeper waters where fish may be congregating to escape the colder temperatures.

Spring and fall are particularly favorable times for fishing in Lake Charles. Spring, with its warming waters, is a prime season for catching bass as they move into shallower areas to spawn. Fall brings a similar boost in activity as fish prepare for the winter by feeding more aggressively. Both of these transitional periods are excellent times for targeting a variety of species, including freshwater fish in the lake and saltwater species in the coastal areas. Overall, Lake Charles offers a range of fishing opportunities throughout the year, with each season bringing its own unique advantages.

What types of fishing are popular in Lake Charles?

Fishing in Lake Charles, Louisiana, provides opportunities to explore various types and techniques depending on the target species and the type of water you're fishing. In freshwater areas like Lake Charles itself, anglers often use techniques such as bass fishing with artificial lures. Popular methods include using crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics to attract largemouth and spotted bass. For crappie, fishing with jigs or live minnows near submerged structures and vegetation can be very effective. Catfish are commonly targeted with live or cut bait, often fished from the shore or a boat in deeper parts of the lake.

For those interested in brackish and saltwater fishing, the nearby Calcasieu River and coastal estuaries offer a range of techniques. Inshore fishing for species such as redfish and speckled trout can be highly productive. Techniques include using soft plastic baits, topwater lures, and live shrimp or minnow under a popping cork to entice strikes. Fishing in the shallow marshes and bays often involves casting along grass beds and oyster reefs where these fish are known to feed.

Offshore fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, accessible from Lake Charles, provides an entirely different experience. Anglers can target a variety of species such as tuna, mahi-mahi, and grouper. Techniques used here include trolling with artificial lures or live bait for pelagic species and bottom fishing with heavy tackle and bait for deep-water fish. The diverse fishing opportunities around Lake Charles cater to both freshwater and saltwater enthusiasts, offering a range of techniques and experiences for every angler.

What species are popular for fishing in Lake Charles?

Fishing in Lake Charles, Louisiana, offers a variety of species to target, each providing a unique challenge for anglers. In the freshwater environments of Lake Charles, you'll find a good population of largemouth bass. These fish are often pursued using artificial lures such as crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics. Additionally, crappie fishing is popular in the lake, especially in spring and early summer, when the fish are more active. Crappie can be caught using jigs or live minnows, particularly near submerged structures and vegetation.

The nearby Calcasieu River and estuarine areas expand the range of species available to anglers. Redfish and speckled trout are common targets in these brackish waters. Redfish are known for their strong fighting ability and can be caught using soft plastics, live bait, or topwater lures. Speckled trout are often found in shallower waters and can be targeted with a variety of lures, including spoons and soft plastics. These species are particularly abundant during the warmer months and offer exciting fishing opportunities.

For those venturing into the Gulf of Mexico, Lake Charles provides access to offshore fishing with a variety of pelagic species. Mahi-mahi, tuna, and snapper are popular targets for offshore anglers. Mahi-mahi and tuna are typically pursued using trolling techniques with lures or live bait, while bottom fishing can yield impressive catches of snapper and grouper. The diverse fishing opportunities around Lake Charles cater to both freshwater and saltwater enthusiasts, offering a rich array of species to target throughout the year.

What are the best places to fish in Lake Charles?

In Lake Charles, Louisiana, several prime fishing spots cater to a variety of angling preferences. Lake Charles itself is a popular destination for freshwater fishing. Anglers often find success fishing for largemouth bass and crappie from boats or along the shorelines. The lake's structure, including submerged timber and vegetation, provides excellent habitats for these species. Additionally, the lake's expansive size allows for diverse fishing experiences, whether you're targeting fish near the shore or venturing out into deeper waters.

For those interested in brackish and saltwater fishing, the Calcasieu River and its surrounding estuaries are excellent options. The river, with its diverse habitats of shallow flats and deeper channels, is renowned for redfish and speckled trout. Anglers can find productive fishing spots along the river’s banks, in the estuarine marshes, and near the mouths of tributaries. The estuarine areas are particularly good for targeting redfish, while the river’s deeper sections offer opportunities for catching trout.

Offshore fishing from Lake Charles provides access to a range of exciting species. The Gulf of Mexico, accessible from local marinas, offers opportunities for catching mahi-mahi, tuna, and snapper. Popular departure points for offshore fishing include the Calcasieu Pass and local charter services that provide access to productive offshore waters. These areas are well-known for their abundant fish populations and are ideal for those looking to experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing. Whether you’re fishing in freshwater, brackish, or saltwater environments, Lake Charles provides diverse and rewarding fishing opportunities.

Does Lake Charles have good fishing?

Lake Charles, Louisiana, is an excellent destination for fishing, offering a variety of environments and species to target. The lake itself is a prime spot for freshwater fishing, where anglers can enjoy a range of species such as largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. The lake's expansive waters and varied structure, including submerged timber and vegetation, create ideal conditions for these fish. Whether you prefer fishing from a boat or along the shore, Lake Charles provides ample opportunities for a successful and enjoyable fishing experience.

In addition to the freshwater fishing in the lake, the surrounding Calcasieu River and estuarine areas offer fantastic options for brackish and saltwater fishing. The river is renowned for its redfish and speckled trout, making it a popular choice for anglers looking to catch these species. The estuarine marshes and flats further enhance the fishing opportunities, particularly during the warmer months when fish are more active. These areas are well-suited for various fishing techniques, including casting with lures and using live bait.

For those seeking offshore fishing adventures, Lake Charles provides easy access to the Gulf of Mexico. The offshore waters are known for their abundance of pelagic species, such as mahi-mahi, tuna, and snapper. Local charters and marinas offer services that make it convenient for anglers to venture into the Gulf and experience deep-sea fishing. Overall, Lake Charles stands out as a versatile fishing destination, catering to both freshwater and saltwater enthusiasts with its diverse fishing opportunities and scenic environments.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    What the best fishing experience ever! Dale was great! We laughed and made jokes as if we had know each other for years. He even let us stay a little longer since it was after the storm and it changes the fishing a bit. It was my dad's first time on a charter, and he loved it! Highly recommend!

    Whitley B. with Dale S. of Port Arthur, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Dale was knowledgeable, educational, patient, and considerate. Despite it being July and Hurricane Beryl a couple of days out he was able to find some great fishing spots! Safety was also a top concern. Recommend him 10 out of 10!!!

    Sarah G. with Dale S. of Port Arthur, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    My wife and I had the honor of spending the day fishing with Captain Chris. This was by far the best fishing charter that we have been in. Chris’ experience level showed as he constantly put us on fish all day. We were is busy catching fish we did not even eat lunch! We came very close to limiting out on several species of fish. Chris even showed us tips in cleaning the fish and preparing them. If you are looking for a guide in this area, you will be greatly pleased with Captain Chris!

    Phil L. with Chris P. of Port Arthur, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Good guide, knows where the fish are, would have like to see tactical changes made for different species or when the bit slowed down. I’d like to see a variety in the arsenal you know. That’s just me being my hardcore fishing self. My wife loved it because we didn’t have to clean or fuel our boat. I agree it’s nice just being a paying customer. The hard thing for me and being very expirienced is you expect everyone to be like you. Tommy did us right and I appreciate his hard work. I’d use Tommy again and would recommend Tommy to others

    Doug F. with Tommy A. of Sulphur, Louisiana

How are fishing conditions in Lake Charles?

View Lake Charles Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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See All Trips in Lake Charles