If you have a fishing hobby, Louisiana is heaven. With its rich tapestry of waterways, swamps, and estuaries, there are so many great spots for anglers to discover. The best way to get there? RVing! From the tranquil bayous to the vast coastal marshes and the sprawling lakes, RVing is a great way to experience the Pelican State’s rich fishing scene. Whether you’re in pursuit of trophy-sized bass in serene freshwater reservoirs or casting your line for speckled trout amidst the coastal breezes, it’s hard to narrow down the best fishing in Louisiana. To make it easy for you, we rounded up our top choices.
There’s a reason this state is known as the “Sportsman’s Paradise.” In Louisiana, fishing is not just a pastime, but a way of life. So, grab your fishing gear and hitch up your RV. We’re detailing the best Louisiana waterways for fishing.
Fishing Licenses in Louisiana
Like anywhere else, fishing in Louisiana requires proper licensing. It’s important to ensure both the sustainability of the state’s fisheries and compliance with regulations. To get yours, visit the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ website or a local license vendor. There are various license types available, including those for residents and non-residents, seniors, and military personnel. It’s essential to review the specific regulations and licensing requirements for the type of fishing you plan to do. Staying informed and obtaining the appropriate fishing license not only keeps you legal but also contributes to the conservation efforts that maintain Louisiana’s vibrant fishing ecosystems.
Best Fishing In Louisiana
Now, on to our picks for the best fishing in Louisiana.
Caney Lake
Fishing in Caney Lake is an angler’s dream come true. In 2022, it gained well-deserved recognition, securing the No. 4 spot on Bassmaster Magazine‘s “Top 100 Lakes” list. This recognition for some of the best fishing in Louisiana is attributed to the impressive tournament weights and the remarkable number of 10-pound-plus bass that have been landed in recent years. The lake spans 5,000 acres in Jackson Parish and is currently experiencing exceptional habitat conditions. This is leading to a surge in big fish and an overall abundance of bass. In other words, you can hook your own trophy-sized bass here!
Toledo Bend Reservoir
Toledo Bend Reservoir is also in Bassmaster Magazine’s “Top 100 Lakes” list, sitting at No. 5. It is situated on the Texas/Louisiana state line and has long had a reputation for some of the best fishing in Louisiana. In 2019, a low-water period led to a temporary drop in the reservoir’s levels. As a result, habitat conditions were enhanced and the fish population thrived. This unique situation contributed to an increase in average winning catch weights. Anglers have caught several 25-pound, 5-bass limit winning weights here in recent years! Anglers visiting Toledo Bend can expect more than just bass, including crappie, catfish, and more. Essentially, this scenic reservoir in Desoto and Vernon Parishes offers ample opportunities for both amateur and seasoned anglers to reel in impressive catches.
Lake Pontchartrain
Lake Pontchartrain is an easily accessible fishing destination for visitors to New Orleans. It is on our list for the best fishing in Louisiana because it offers a rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels. Popular catches include speckled trout, redfish, flounder, and sheepshead. There are both inshore and nearshore fishing options, making it accessible for those with various types of watercraft. The lake’s brackish water is a prime habitat for these sought-after species. Additionally, the abundance of oyster beds and marshy areas provides excellent feeding grounds. Undoubtedly, Lake Pontchartrain offers a fruitful fishing experience against the picturesque backdrop of New Orleans.
Grand Isle
Grande Isle is a coveted destination for both inshore and offshore fishing enthusiasts. Onshore, anglers can target speckled trout and redfish in the calm, shallow waters of Barataria Bay. For those seeking offshore adventures, the Gulf of Mexico offers opportunities to catch a wide variety of species, including tuna, marlin, snapper, and amberjack. Anglers can choose from various charter options to explore these rich fishing grounds. RVers can set up camp at the beautiful Grand Isle State Park. With its stunning coastal scenery and abundant marine life, Grande Isle offers a thrilling fishing experience combined with the comforts of RV camping.
Venice
Venice is so well-loved by anglers, it’s known as “Tuna Town.” The town is located at the tip of Louisiana’s boot near the Mississippi River Delta and the Gulf of Mexico. As a result, it’s an unparalleled hotspot for offshore and deep-sea fishing. The convergence of nutrient-rich waters from the Mississippi River and the warm currents of the Gulf creates the perfect conditions for various tuna species, including yellowfin and blackfin tuna, to thrive. If you want to fish for tuna, Venice has some of the best fishing in Louisiana.
Atchafalaya Basin
This sprawling wetland in Cajun Country is perfect for the angler who wants to meander through a labyrinth of cypress swamps. It’s a prime habitat for a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. The basin’s waterways wind through a mesmerizing landscape of towering cypress trees draped with Spanish moss. Anglers often use shallow-draft boats like flat-bottomed skiffs, jon boats, and kayaks to navigate these waters effectively. There’s plenty else to do here as well. We featured Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge as one of the best places to hike in our state.
The Best Louisiana RV Shop for RVing Anglers
These spots only scratch the surface of why our state is known as “Sportsman’s Paradise.” Louisiana offers a fishing experience like no other, with its diverse landscapes, abundant water bodies, and a multitude of fish species. For RVing anglers searching for the best fishing in Louisiana, don’t forget to make Courvelle’s RV in Opelousas your first stop. Our exceptional RV service and high quality RV inventory will ensure you’re well-prepared to enjoy the bountiful fishing opportunities that await in this paradise for sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts.
