Family Inshore Fishing in Delacroix, LA

Family Fishing Fun in Delacroix's Backyard

Get ready for a laid-back day on the water with Capt. Paul, exploring the rich inshore waters of St. Bernard and the nearby Gulf. This 7-hour trip is tailor-made for families looking to wet a line and make some memories. We'll be chasing after redfish, black drum, speckled trout, and sheepshead in the scenic Louisiana marsh. Don't sweat the gear - we've got all the rods, reels, bait, and licenses covered. Just bring your snacks, drinks, and a good attitude, and we'll handle the rest. It's the perfect recipe for quality time with the kids, surrounded by nature and the thrill of the catch.

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: you're cruising through winding bayous, the sun's warmth on your face, and pelicans diving nearby. That's how we kick things off. Capt. Paul knows these waters like the back of his hand, so we'll hit the sweet spots where the fish are biting. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, we'll make sure you're comfortable and having a blast. We might start off tossing lines near grass beds for redfish, then switch it up to deeper channels for trout. The beauty of inshore fishing is the variety - one minute you're sight-casting to tailing reds, the next you're feeling the telltale thump of a black drum on your line. And don't forget your camera - the scenery out here is postcard-perfect, and you'll want to capture those big smiles when the kids reel in their catches.

Fishing Techniques 101

We keep things simple and effective out here. Depending on what's biting, we might use a few different techniques. For redfish and black drum, we often go with live bait on the bottom - nothing beats a juicy shrimp or crab for these bruisers. When the trout are running, we might switch to artificial lures, working soft plastics or topwater baits. Capt. Paul's always got a few tricks up his sleeve, like using popping corks to mimic the sound of feeding fish and draw in the big ones. Don't worry if you're new to this - we'll walk you through each technique, and before you know it, you'll be casting like a pro. The gear we use is top-notch but user-friendly, perfect for anglers of all skill levels. And here's a local tip: sometimes the best action happens right up against the shoreline, so we'll teach you how to cast accurately to those honey holes.

Top Catches This Season

Fishing in Delacroix is like a box of chocolates - you never know what you're gonna get, but it's always good. This season, we've been seeing some chunky redfish in the 5-10 pound range, perfect for a family fish fry. The speckled trout have been on fire too, especially early in the morning when they're chasing bait on the surface. Black drum have been showing up in good numbers, and let me tell you, when a big one takes your bait, it's like hooking into a tractor. And for those looking for a real challenge, the sheepshead (we call 'em convict fish 'cause of their stripes) have been thick around the pilings and structures. They're tricky to hook but tasty on the plate. Remember, it's not just about what ends up in the cooler - it's the whole experience of being out there, learning new skills, and sharing laughs with your family.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish: These copper-colored beauties are the rockstars of our inshore waters. They've got a distinctive spot on their tail, and when they're feeding in shallow water, you can sometimes see their tails sticking up out of the water - we call that "tailing." Redfish put up a great fight, often making strong runs and even pulling drag. They're most active in the fall, but we catch 'em year-round. Kids love fishing for reds because they're not too picky about bait and give a good tussle on the line.

Speckled Trout: Also known as spotted seatrout, these guys are the bread and butter of inshore fishing. They're beautiful fish with dark spots and a couple of prominent teeth (hence the name "seatrout"). Specks are fun to catch because they often hit lures aggressively and can be caught in good numbers when you find a school. Spring and fall are prime times for trout, but summer can be great too, especially early in the morning. They're also delicious, making them a favorite for the dinner table.

Black Drum: Think of these as redfish's bigger, uglier cousins. Black drum can grow to massive sizes, though we usually target the smaller "puppy drum" that are better eating. They've got distinctive whiskers under their chin that they use to feel for crabs and shrimp on the bottom. Black drum are less glamorous than some other species, but they're reliable and can save the day when other fish aren't biting. They're also great for kids because they tend to be less finicky eaters.

Sheepshead: These are the tricksters of the bunch. Sheepshead have a mouth full of human-like teeth that they use to crush crabs and barnacles. They're notorious bait stealers, often nibbling your offering without getting hooked. But when you do hook one, they put up a surprisingly strong fight for their size. We find them around structures like pilings and rocks, especially in the cooler months. Catching a big sheepshead is a badge of honor for any angler, young or old.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Folks come back to Delacroix time and time again because it's got that perfect mix of accessibility and wildness. You're just a stone's throw from New Orleans, but out here, it feels like you're in another world. The fishing's consistent year-round, so there's always something biting. But it's more than just the fish - it's about disconnecting from the noise and reconnecting with what matters. Watching a kid's face light up when they feel that first tug on the line, or seeing a family work together to land a big one - that's the stuff that sticks with you. Plus, the scenery out here is something else. You might see gators sunning themselves, ospreys diving for fish, or even dolphins playing in the wake. Every trip is different, and that's what keeps people coming back for more.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, let's wrap this up. If you're looking for a day on the water that's more than just fishing - it's about making memories and having a good time - then this is your trip. Capt. Paul's got the know-how to put you on fish, the patience to work with anglers of all levels, and the personality to make sure everyone's having a blast. Whether you're a local looking for a quick getaway or a visitor wanting to experience the best of Louisiana's outdoors, this family-friendly trip checks all the boxes. The fish are biting, the marsh is calling, and there's a spot on the boat with your name on it. So what are you waiting for? Grab the family, book your date, and get ready for a day of laughs, learning, and hopefully a few fish stories to take home. Trust me, once you fish Delacroix, you'll be hooked for life.