Redfish (Red Drum) Fishing in Louisiana
Check regulations
Check regulations
Year-round
Overview
Louisiana marsh fishing for redfish is arguably the best in the world.
Sight-fishing in skinny marsh water requires poling or trolling motor stealth.
Schools of "bull reds" run along the coast August through October.
Artificial lures work well, but a live shrimp under a popping cork is the most popular rig in Louisiana.
Best Waters in Louisiana
- Venice/Mississippi River Delta — Southernmost point of Louisiana with massive bull redfish congregating around passes and jetties.
- Hopedale/Biloxi Marsh — East of New Orleans with miles of interior marsh holding slot redfish year-round.
- Calcasieu Lake — Southwest Louisiana estuary producing trophy redfish on oyster reefs and grass flats.
- Lafitte/Barataria Bay — Easily accessible from New Orleans with healthy redfish populations in marsh canals and bays.
- Grand Isle — Barrier island with both inshore marsh and nearshore bull redfish opportunities.
Local Techniques & Baits
Techniques
- Popping cork with live shrimp
- Sight-casting soft plastics
- Weedless spoon
- Carolina rig with cut bait
- Fly fishing
Baits & Lures
- Live shrimp under popping cork
- Matrix Shad
- Gulp Shrimp on jig head
- Johnson gold spoon
- Cut mullet
Seasonal Guide for Louisiana
SpringSpring Fishing
Redfish flood into interior marshes following baitfish. Sight-fishing in skinny water is prime.
SummerSummer Fishing
Fish early and late. Interior marsh canals and drains hold redfish throughout. Popping corks with live shrimp dominate.
FallFall Fishing
Bull redfish run from August-November. Interior marsh fishing remains excellent for slot fish.
WinterWinter Fishing
Redfish concentrate in deep bayou holes and canals. Slow-moving soft plastics and cut bait produce.
Regulations
Regulations change frequently. Always verify current regulations with Louisiana Fish & Wildlife. Information shown was last updated 2025-01-01.
Specific regulations for redfish (red drum) in Louisiana are not listed in our database. Please check the official Louisiana regulations for current rules.