Venice Nearshore Fishing Adventure
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Sixhour nearshore fishing charter for up to five guestsTarget Red Snapper, Cobia, and Tripletail species offshoreFuel costs included in total charter package price
Venice, Louisiana sits right where the Mississippi River dumps into the Gulf of Mexico, creating some of the most nutrient-rich fishing waters you'll find anywhere along the coast. Our six-hour nearshore charter takes you into those productive waters where the freshwater meets the salt, targeting species that love to feed in this fertile zone. With Fish Killin Charters, you'll spend quality time on waters that have made Venice famous among serious anglers, and the best part? Fuel's already included in your trip cost, so no surprises when you get back to the dock.
This top-rated nearshore adventure starts early when the fish are most active and the Gulf is typically at its calmest. You'll head out into waters ranging from 15 to 40 feet deep, where structure changes and current breaks create perfect ambush points for hungry gamefish. The boat comfortably handles up to five anglers, giving everyone plenty of room to work without getting tangled up in each other's lines. Your captain knows these waters like the back of his hand - every oil rig leg, every piece of bottom structure, and every seasonal pattern that brings fish into the area. The six-hour timeframe gives you real fishing time, not just a quick trip around the block. You'll have multiple opportunities to change spots if the action slows down, and there's always backup locations when Plan A isn't producing.
Nearshore fishing around Venice requires a mix of techniques depending on what's biting and where we find them. You'll be bottom fishing with circle hooks and heavy sinkers when targeting red snapper around structure, using fresh cut bait like pogies or cigar minnows that drive these fish crazy. For tripletail, we'll often sight-fish around floating debris or work the edges of oil rigs where they like to hang in the shade. Cobia fishing means having heavy tackle ready - these fish can push 40+ pounds and they're notorious for making long, powerful runs that'll test your drag system. The boat's equipped with quality rods and reels that can handle anything we hook up with, plus a good selection of terminal tackle and fresh bait. Don't worry if you've never fished these species before - the crew will show you proper technique and help you fight every fish to the boat.
Black drum are the workhorses of Louisiana's nearshore waters, and these copper-colored bruisers can really put a bend in your rod. They average 15-30 pounds around Venice, but don't be surprised if you tie into a 40-pounder that feels like you've hooked the bottom. These fish feed heavily on crabs and shrimp, making them perfect targets for fresh shrimp or blue crab baits fished right on the bottom. Black drum are most active during cooler months from October through March, and they're known for their stubborn, head-shaking fights that'll make your arms burn. What makes them special is their reliability - when other species are finicky, you can usually count on black drum to keep the action going.
Tripletail are one of the most unique fish you'll encounter in these waters, and they're absolute customer favorites for good reason. These oddly-shaped fish actually float on their sides near the surface, mimicking debris or dead leaves while they wait to ambush prey. They're found year-round in Louisiana waters but peak during summer months when they're spawning. Most tripletail run 5-15 pounds, and they're renowned for their incredible table fare - white, flaky meat that rivals any fish in the Gulf. The fun part about tripletail fishing is the visual aspect; you'll actually see the fish before you cast to it, making every hookup feel like a personal victory.
Red snapper are the crown jewel of Gulf Coast fishing, and Venice's nearshore waters hold some world-class fish during the federal season. These bright red fighters typically run 8-25 pounds in our area, and they're famous for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs back toward structure. Red snapper season varies each year based on federal regulations, but when it's open, these fish provide non-stop action around oil rigs, artificial reefs, and natural bottom structure. They're voracious feeders that'll hit everything from live bait to cut squid, and their excellent eating quality makes them the most sought-after species in the Gulf. The challenge with snapper is getting them away from structure before they cut your line - it's a tug-of-war that gets your heart pumping every single time.
Venice nearshore fishing delivers consistent action in a comfortable setting that's perfect for both seasoned anglers and folks just getting into saltwater fishing. The six-hour format gives you real value without the commitment of a full-day offshore trip, and the species variety means there's always something different to target based on conditions and season. With fuel costs included and all tackle provided, you just need to bring yourself, some snacks, and the desire to bend some rods. These trips fill up quickly, especially during peak fishing months, so don't wait too long to secure your dates. Whether you're looking to put some quality fish in the cooler or just enjoy a day on Louisiana's productive coastal waters, this charter delivers the goods every time out.
Step aboard our 30-foot custom center console and get ready to fish the productive nearshore waters off Venice, Louisiana. Twin 300 HP Yamaha engines will get you to the fishing grounds fast, cruising at speeds up to 45 mph so you spend more time with lines in the water. The spacious deck comfortably handles up to 6 anglers, giving everyone room to fight fish without getting tangled up. Essential gear includes GPS navigation to pinpoint those honey holes, VHF radio for safety communication, and a live bait tank to keep your offerings fresh. Whether you're targeting red snapper, cobia, or tripletail, this boat's designed for serious fishing action in the Gulf's productive nearshore waters. The stable platform makes landing fish easier, and there's plenty of space to store your catch. Perfect setup for both seasoned anglers and newcomers looking to experience Louisiana's fantastic coastal fishing opportunities.
Pogonias CromisBlack drum are the heavyweights of the drum family, ranging from 5-30 pounds with some monsters hitting 90. These dark, powerful fish love our Louisiana brackish waters and oyster beds, using their crushing jaws to demolish crabs and shellfish. Spring brings the best action when they school up for spawning in shallow, muddy flats and around structure. What makes them special is their unique "drumming" sound they make underwater - you'll actually hear them before you see them. They put up a solid fight and smaller ones under 15 pounds make excellent eating with sweet, flaky meat. My tip: use fresh soft crab on a Carolina rig and keep it on the bottom. When you hear that drumming sound, get ready because there's usually a whole school nearby.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed snapper are the crown jewel of Gulf fishing, averaging 1-2 feet but capable of hitting 35+ pounds. These bright red beauties live around hard bottom and structure in 30-200 feet of water, making our nearshore reefs perfect habitat. During our summer season, they're aggressive and plentiful around oil rigs, artificial reefs, and natural ledges. What makes them so popular is the combination of a serious fight and outstanding table fare - mild, sweet meat that's restaurant quality. They'll test your gear, running straight for cover when hooked. The secret is getting your bait to the bottom fast with enough weight to beat the current. Fresh cigar minnows or live pinfish work best, but here's my tip: when you hook one, immediately turn their head up and away from structure or they'll cut you off every time.
Lobotes SurinamensisTripletail are one of our most unique catches - they get their name from having three tail-like fins that make them look like floating debris. Most run 2-13 pounds, but we see some pushing 40. These crafty fish actually float on their sides near weed lines and structure, mimicking leaves or trash. Summer through fall is prime time when they're active near the surface in our nearshore waters. What guests love most is the sight-fishing aspect - spotting one floating and making a perfect cast. They're surprisingly acrobatic fighters for their chunky build and taste similar to snapper with firm, white meat. Here's the key: cast well past them and slowly work your bait back. They spook easily, so stealth is everything. Live shrimp or small crabs work best.
Venice