Damn Good The Rigolets Fishing Charters

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Recently Booked Fishing Charters In The Rigolets

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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in New Orleans

Catching New Orleans

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats 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 Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Lake Fishing Charter in New Orleans

Louisiana Slam With Capt Mack

100% (5)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $475
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Slidell

New Orleans Area Fishing Trip

100% (4)
25 ft 1 - 5 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Lafitte

Afternoon Shallow Water Assault

NEW
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in New Orleans

New Orleans Shallow Water Slam

NEW
23 ft 1 - 5 People From $850

Top Types of Trips in The Rigolets

Top Species for Fishing in The Rigolets

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More Fishing Charters In The Rigolets

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Slidell

New Orleans Fishing Excursion

100% (4)
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $500
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Lake, Flats Fishing Charter in Slidell

Half Day Trip

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25 ft 1 - 10 People From $525
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Lake Fishing Charter in Slidell

Lake Ponchartrain Lunkers

100% (3)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in New Orleans

New Orleans Shallow Water Slam

NEW
23 ft 1 - 5 People From $850
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Lafitte

Afternoon Shallow Water Assault

NEW
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Slidell

New Orleans Area Fishing Trip

100% (4)
25 ft 1 - 5 People From $500
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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in The Rigolets

What are the best fishing charters in The Rigolets?

Why should I book a fishing charter in The Rigolets with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 9 trips in The Rigolets, and the most popular trips in the area are Catching New Orleans guided by Drake, Exploring the Louisiana Marsh guided by Brad, and New Orleans Area Fishing Trip guided by Mike.

Our guides in The Rigolets are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3710 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 charters / fishing lessons in The Rigolets? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in The Rigolets.

What types of fishing charters are common in The Rigolets?

Inshore fishing is the most popular type of fishing in The Rigolets as well as flats fishing, lake fishing, and jetty fishing.

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

The most common fishing techniques in The Rigolets are light tackle fishing, trolling, and bottom fishing but jigging and live bait fishing are popular as well.

How much do The Rigolets fishing charters cost?

Prices in The Rigolets can range anywhere from about $600 to $1,335, but the average price for a half day trip in The Rigolets is $893. The average price for a full day trip in The Rigolets is $930.

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 The Rigolets?

The most popular season for fishing in The Rigolets is summer, and most anglers book their trips 31 days in advance.

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

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

What is fishing in The Rigolets all about?

Fishing in The Rigolets offers anglers a unique and exciting experience in the coastal waters of southeastern Louisiana. Situated between Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Borgne, The Rigolets is a natural waterway that connects these two large bodies of water, creating a prime fishing destination. The area is renowned for its rich biodiversity and abundance of saltwater species, making it a favorite among anglers seeking to reel in a variety of fish.

One of the highlights of fishing in The Rigolets is the opportunity to target prized game fish species such as speckled trout, redfish, flounder, and sheepshead. These species thrive in the brackish waters of the estuary, where they can be found lurking around submerged structures, oyster reefs, and grass beds. Anglers can employ a variety of techniques, including bait fishing, lure fishing, and fly fishing, to entice these fish to bite, making for an exciting and rewarding fishing experience.

In addition to its excellent inshore fishing opportunities, The Rigolets also provides access to offshore fishing grounds in Lake Borgne and the Gulf of Mexico. Anglers can venture out into deeper waters in search of larger pelagic species such as king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, and even tarpon. Whether fishing from the shoreline, a boat, or a kayak, anglers in The Rigolets can enjoy a diverse range of fishing experiences amidst the scenic beauty of Louisiana's coastal marshes and waterways.

What are the most popular months to fish in The Rigolets?

The fishing seasons in The Rigolets are influenced by the region's dynamic ecosystem and the migratory patterns of various fish species. In the spring, as temperatures rise and water begins to warm, anglers can expect an increase in activity from species like speckled trout and redfish. These months often provide excellent opportunities for anglers to target these popular game fish as they move into the estuary in search of food and suitable spawning grounds.

Summer in The Rigolets brings warmer water temperatures and increased fishing activity, particularly for species like flounder and sheepshead. Anglers can find success fishing around submerged structures, oyster reefs, and grass beds, where these fish congregate to feed. The summer months also offer prime conditions for offshore fishing in nearby Lake Borgne and the Gulf of Mexico, where anglers can target pelagic species such as king mackerel and Spanish mackerel.

As fall approaches, cooler temperatures trigger changes in fish behavior, leading to shifts in fishing patterns in The Rigolets. Speckled trout, redfish, and other inshore species may begin to move closer to shore as they prepare for the winter months. Additionally, fall marks the beginning of the shrimp run in the area, attracting predatory fish to feeding grounds near the mouths of rivers and estuaries. Anglers can take advantage of these seasonal changes to target a variety of fish species and enjoy productive fishing outings in the scenic waters of The Rigolets.

What types of fishing are popular in The Rigolets?

Fishing in The Rigolets offers anglers a variety of techniques to target the diverse range of saltwater species that inhabit its waters. One popular method is inshore fishing, where anglers can cast their lines from the shoreline or from a boat in search of species such as speckled trout, redfish, flounder, and sheepshead. Inshore fishing allows anglers to explore the estuary's shallow waters, submerged structures, and grass beds, where these fish congregate to feed and seek shelter. Anglers can use a variety of baits and lures, including live shrimp, mullet, and artificial soft plastics, to entice fish to bite while enjoying the scenic beauty of The Rigolets.

Another favored technique in The Rigolets is trolling, particularly for anglers targeting larger pelagic species such as king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, and cobia. Trolling involves trailing baited lines or artificial lures behind a slow-moving boat, allowing anglers to cover a large area of water and locate fish that are actively feeding near the surface. Anglers can troll along the edges of shipping channels, near oyster reefs, and around submerged structures to increase their chances of hooking into a trophy-sized fish.

In addition to inshore and trolling, anglers in The Rigolets can also enjoy bottom fishing for species such as red snapper, grouper, and amberjack. Bottom fishing involves anchoring the boat over underwater structures such as wrecks, reefs, and oil rigs and dropping baited hooks to the seafloor. This method allows anglers to target bottom-dwelling fish species that inhabit deeper waters, providing opportunities for catching larger fish and experiencing the thrill of a deep-sea fishing adventure in the Gulf of Mexico.

What species are popular in The Rigolets?

Fishing in The Rigolets offers anglers the opportunity to catch a diverse range of saltwater species that inhabit its estuarine waters. One of the most prized species by anglers visiting the area is the speckled trout, known for its spirited fights and delicious taste. Speckled trout can be found throughout The Rigolets, particularly in the shallow waters around submerged structures, oyster reefs, and grass beds. Anglers often use live bait such as shrimp or mullet, as well as artificial lures like soft plastics and topwater plugs, to entice speckled trout to bite.

Redfish are another popular species to target in The Rigolets, prized for their strength and tenacity on the line. These hard-fighting fish can be found prowling the shallow flats and channels of the estuary, where they feed on a variety of prey. Anglers can target redfish using a variety of techniques, including bait fishing with live or cut bait, lure fishing with spoons or crankbaits, and fly fishing with streamers or poppers. Redfish are a favorite among anglers of all skill levels and provide an exciting challenge for those seeking a memorable fishing experience in The Rigolets.

In addition to speckled trout and redfish, anglers in The Rigolets can also encounter a variety of other saltwater species, including flounder, sheepshead, and black drum. Flounder are often found lying in wait along the sandy bottoms of the estuary, where they ambush passing prey. Sheepshead are known for their strong, crushing teeth and can be found around structures such as pilings, docks, and oyster beds. Black drum are another common species in The Rigolets, often found feeding near the bottom in deeper waters. Whether targeting speckled trout, redfish, or any of the other species that inhabit its waters, fishing in The Rigolets offers anglers a rewarding and exciting saltwater fishing experience.

Does The Rigolets have good fishing?

The Rigolets, located in southeastern Louisiana, is renowned among anglers for its exceptional fishing opportunities amidst the unique ecosystem where Lake Pontchartrain meets the Gulf of Mexico. This narrow waterway serves as a vital connection between the lake and the Gulf, creating a dynamic environment that supports a diverse range of fish species. Anglers visiting The Rigolets can target popular catches such as speckled trout, redfish, flounder, and sheepshead throughout the year. The area's brackish waters and tidal currents provide ideal conditions for both inshore and nearshore fishing, making it a prime spot for anglers of all skill levels.

Fishing in The Rigolets is characterized by its versatility and the variety of fishing techniques it accommodates. Whether fishing from a boat, kayak, or along the shoreline, anglers have access to a range of habitats including marshy areas, deep channels, and oyster reefs. The area's proximity to New Orleans and its surrounding communities ensures convenient access to amenities such as boat ramps, marinas, and fishing charters, enhancing the overall fishing experience for visitors.

Beyond its excellent fishing prospects, The Rigolets offers anglers a chance to immerse themselves in Louisiana's rich natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you're exploring the area's scenic waterways, encountering local wildlife, or enjoying the camaraderie of fellow anglers, The Rigolets invites you to experience the thrill of fishing in a vibrant and dynamic coastal environment. Whether you're planning a day trip or an extended fishing expedition, The Rigolets promises a memorable fishing adventure amidst the picturesque backdrop of Louisiana's coastal landscape.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    We had a good day on the water with Mike! A weather front was moving through the area on our day to fish, so consequently the bite was inconsistent. We were able catch several fish, bringing in 8 fish to clean. The fish we caught were spotted trout and white trout. I was hoping to catch a sheep head and some red fish, but they were not biting that day. The highlight of the day was catching a small stingray. I’ve never seen one in the wild before so that was pretty neat. Of course we had to release him. I have been with many guides and Mike was very professional.

    Leroy S. | November 18, 2024

    Trip: New Orleans Area Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Mike and captain Chris were great. They got us on the fish despite some tough conditions in the early morning.

    Jeffrey L. | October 30, 2024

    Trip: New Orleans Area Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Capt James was great. Knows his way around the water was able to bring us right to the fish everytime. Definitely would recommend. Can’t wait to come out again.

    Torren C. | June 27, 2024

    Trip: Lake Ponchartrain Lunkers

  • ★★★★★
    James is a true captain that has the fisherman in mind at all times. First he knows the area and is safe. He worked hard to get us on fish and we tried several areas before we were successful. He found the fish though and then we stayed to get some in the box. I have been on many fishing trips and James is at the top of my list. He is personable and cares about his clients. If your looking for a quality experienced Captain look no farther than James.

    Tim H. | June 16, 2024

    Trip: Lake Ponchartrain Lunkers

  • ★★★★★
    5 star Captain!! James is one of the best guides we have ever been out with. He put us on fish all day and worked hard to make sure we always had what we needed- he even shared his ball cap with me when he realized I had forgotten mine. I can not say enough good things about him, great fisherman and a great guy!!!

    Charlie B. | April 9, 2024

    Trip: Lake Ponchartrain Lunkers

  • ★★★★★
    Top notch captain. We caught trout, flounder, and a ton of catfish. Mackie is a great guy and a great pre trip communicator. Would book again!

    Joseph L. | March 30, 2024

    Trip: Louisiana Slam with Capt Mack

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    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

Top Targeted Fishing Species in The Rigolets

Top Fishing Techniques in The Rigolets

Top Types of Fishing in The Rigolets

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