Damn Good Inshore Fishing Charters In The Rigolets

If you’re into fishing, the Rigolets is as close to a paradise as you’re going to find. Nestled just outside the bustle of New Orleans, this unique stretch of water is where the Mississippi River spills into Lake Pontchartrain, creating a rich, fertile environment that’s perfect for inshore fishing. The shallow waters are teeming with reds, specks, and flounder, all waiting for the right bait to pass by. There’s a kind of magic to the place, where the brackish waters create the perfect storm of prime fishing grounds. Whether you’re casting from a skiff or dropping a line from the pier, there’s something about the Rigolets that draws you in and keeps you coming back.

The beauty of fishing the Rigolets is in its simplicity. Unlike the deep, offshore adventures that require a big crew and a hefty boat, inshore fishing here is as much about patience and local knowledge as it is about skill. The marshes and channels are a maze, but once you’ve got the lay of the land, it’s all about tracking down where the fish are feeding. You don’t need a fancy setup to get started—just a rod, some tackle, and a sense of adventure. The real reward comes from the quiet moments on the water, the sound of the rod bending with a strike, and the satisfaction of landing a fish that’s pulled from waters steeped in history.

There’s no rush when you’re fishing the Rigolets, and that’s exactly the way it should be. The whole experience is about connecting with nature, whether you’re out there for an hour or a whole afternoon. It’s the perfect escape from the usual grind, giving you a chance to slow down and savor the little things. The weathered charm of the bayou, the occasional splash of a jumping fish, and the smell of salt air—it’s a reminder that sometimes the best days are the ones spent casting a line and soaking in the simple joys of the outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a newcomer looking for your next adventure, the Rigolets is a place where the stories are as deep as the waters.

Fishing in the Rigolets is all about timing, and knowing the seasons is key to making the most of this unique fishing haven. Spring kicks things off in a big way. As the water warms and the marshes come alive with activity, the reds and specks start making their way into the shallows, hungry and ready to strike. This is prime time for anglers looking to hook into big fish with an early bite. The weather’s comfortable, the waters are active, and there’s an undeniable energy in the air that sets the stage for some unforgettable days on the water. It’s the kind of season that draws you out of bed at the crack of dawn, eager to cast your line before the heat of the day settles in.

Summer’s heat brings a shift in the game, and while it’s no secret that things slow down a bit, it’s still a great time to fish if you know where to look. With the sun high in the sky, the deeper channels and cooler waters are the place to target reds and flounder, and early morning or late evening is when the action heats up. The fish are a little more elusive, but they’re still there, and there’s something about the serenity of summer mornings on the water that makes it all worth it. You’ll see fewer boats, fewer crowds, and more chances to land that elusive trophy fish. It's fishing with a rhythm of its own—a little slower, a little more deliberate, but still full of rewards.

Fall in the Rigolets is a time of transition, and it’s arguably one of the best seasons for inshore fishing. The fish are on the move again, bulking up for the cooler months ahead, and the waters are full of action. Reds are out in force, and the speckled trout are staging a late-season surge. The cooler temperatures and calmer weather make for long days on the water, with plenty of opportunities to chase down the big ones. There’s a crispness in the air, and you can feel the seasons change as you work your way through the channels. Fall’s a time for the seasoned anglers who know how to read the waters, and if you’re dialed in, it’s when the fish are at their most active.

In the Rigolets, inshore fishing isn’t just a sport—it’s an art. The waters here are a labyrinth of marshes, channels, and flats, making it an ideal spot for all sorts of fishing techniques. One of the most popular methods is using live bait—shrimp or finger mullet—drifted along the bottom where reds and specks are prowling. There’s something primal about watching a line twitch, knowing the fish are out there, ready to take the bait. A slow, patient drift is key to this technique, as the currents work with you, carrying the bait to where the fish are feeding. It’s a bit of a dance, where your timing and finesse matter just as much as the gear you’re using.

Then there’s the art of sight fishing, which is all about stealth and precision. The Rigolets is a great place for this, especially in the shallows. The clear waters give you a perfect view of cruising reds and specks, and the thrill of casting directly to a fish you can see is hard to beat. Here, a light tackle setup and a sharp eye are your best friends. You’re not just throwing a line and hoping for the best—you’re targeting specific fish, watching their movements, and making calculated casts. It’s a technique that requires patience and skill, but when you get it right, there’s nothing more satisfying than landing a fish you’ve been watching for the last few minutes.

For those who enjoy a bit of variety, there's always the option of bottom fishing, which is as straightforward as it gets but still offers plenty of thrills. Drop a piece of cut bait down to the bottom of the deeper channels, and you’ll find yourself battling with everything from croakers to the occasional big drum. It’s a method that keeps you on your toes, as the bite can be sudden and strong. The beauty of bottom fishing in the Rigolets is that you never quite know what you’ll pull up next, but the fight is always worth it. Whether you’re using circle hooks or traditional rigs, it’s a great way to stay engaged and keep your bait in the right spot.

When it comes to inshore fishing in the Rigolets, the species you’ll be targeting can make all the difference between an average day and an unforgettable one. The waters here are teeming with fish, but if you're after a true Louisiana classic, look no further than the redfish. These bruisers are a staple of inshore fishing, known for their strength and fight. Whether you’re chasing them in the shallow flats or around the deeper channels, reds can be found all year long, with peak seasons during the spring and fall. You’ll know you’ve hooked a good one when the drag starts screaming as it makes its first run—there’s nothing quite like the rush of landing a big red in these brackish waters.

Speckled trout are another sought-after prize in the Rigolets, and for good reason. These guys are tricky little predators, known for their cunning and speed. In the spring and fall, the specks are running hard, feeding aggressively on smaller baitfish and shrimp. They’re often found around structure like oyster beds or submerged grass, which makes a stealthy approach key. Whether you’re drifting with live shrimp or tossing soft plastics, speckled trout offer a fun challenge with every cast. When you feel that familiar tap-tap on your line, get ready for a spirited fight and a fish that’s a true trophy for any angler.

Then, of course, there’s the humble flounder—often overlooked but equally rewarding. Flounder might not put up the same kind of fight as reds or specks, but they’re no less thrilling to catch. They’re bottom dwellers, typically found in the deeper holes and drop-offs of the Rigolets. When you feel the bite, it’s a gentle pull, but don’t let their subtlety fool you—the flounder are fighters in their own right. Fishing for them usually involves a slow drag along the bottom, making sure your bait gets right in front of their camouflaged hiding spots. Catching one feels like uncovering a hidden gem, and with their tasty meat, they’re always a welcome addition to the cooler.