Lake Pontchartrain, an estuary formed 2,600–4,000 years ago, offers prime fishing opportunities. Connected to the Gulf of Mexico, it boasts an oval shape with a max length of 40 miles and a max width of 24 miles. Inshore fishing here is a delight, with an average depth of 12–14 feet and a max depth of 65 feet.
Notable Fish Species:
- Atlantic Croaker
- Bass
- Catfish
- Flounder
- Redfish
- Sheepshead
- Speckled Trout
Seasonal Fishing Tips:
- Fall and winter are perfect for Speckled Trout, Black Drum, Flounder, Largemouth Bass, Redfish, and Sheepshead.
- Summer brings Black Drum, Flounder, Jack Crevalle, Largemouth Bass, Redfish, Sheepshead, and even Speckled Trout with the right know-how.
Record Catches:
- Largest Sheepshead: 21.25 pounds
- Record Ladyfish: 4.64 pounds
- Largest Speckled Trout: 11.99 pounds (Ranking No. 2 in Louisiana)
Fishing Forecast:
- Spotted Seatrout: 65.12% catch rate
- Red Drum: 11.16% catch rate
- Sand Seatrout: 6.81% catch rate
- Largemouth Bass: 4.38% catch rate
- Sheepshead: 2.67% catch rate
- Black Drum: 2.15% catch rate
- Southern Flounder: 1.58% catch rate
- Hardhead Catfish: 1.13% catch rate
- Whiting: 1.08% catch rate
- Blue Catfish: 0.9% catch rate
Recommendations based on 47 species and 20,839 fish counted for November.
Top 10 Fishing Spots:
- Platform
- Obstructions
- St. Tammany (east)
- St. Tammany (west)
- The Rigolets
- Catfish Point
- Bridge Span
- Trout Bayou
- Rabbit Ledge
- Wreck-9652
Latest Fishing Reports:
- Tarpon Fly Fishing in Apalachicola and the Florida Panhandle.
- Louisiana Red Fishing in Fall and Winter.
- Florida Tarpon Fishing in Spring and Summer.
- Fly Fishing for Red Fish and Tarpon Season Review.
- Springtime Louisiana Fishing – A Hidden Gem.
Note: Check local laws before fishing. Data based on historical records since 1600.
Image/Source: FishingStatus