Half Day Redfish And Trout Fishing In St. Bernard
When you're looking for some of the best inshore fishing Louisiana has to offer, St. Bernard Parish delivers every single time. I'm talking about productive waters where redfish cruise the shallows and speckled trout stack up in the right spots. This isn't some crowded charter boat experience – it's just you, your fishing buddy, and me working the flats and marshes where these fish actually live. We'll spend six solid hours on the water, starting at first light when the fish are most active. From May through August, these waters come alive, and that's exactly when we run this top-rated trip.
What to Expect on the Water
Picture this: we're launching at 6 AM sharp when the marsh is still quiet and the water's like glass. That early start isn't just for show – it's when redfish move into the shallows to feed, and trout start hitting topwater baits. We'll have the boat loaded with light tackle that's perfect for these species, plus all the lures and bait you'll need. This is a private charter for just two anglers, so you get my full attention and the best spots to yourself. No fighting crowds or waiting your turn – just quality fishing time. I've been working these St. Bernard waters for years, and I know exactly where to find fish based on tides, weather, and seasonal patterns. The boat's set up specifically for inshore work, with a shallow draft that lets us get into places bigger boats can't reach.
Techniques That Get Results
We'll be using three main approaches that consistently produce fish in these waters. Light tackle is the name of the game here – it's way more fun feeling every headshake and run, plus it's more effective for spooky inshore fish. When conditions are right, we'll throw topwater poppers that create a commotion redfish and trout just can't resist. There's nothing quite like watching a big red blow up on a popper in shallow water. Drift fishing is another go-to technique, especially when we're targeting trout over structure or along drop-offs. We'll use the wind and current to our advantage, covering more water while keeping baits in the strike zone longer. I'll have live bait on board too, because sometimes that's what it takes to get finicky fish to bite. The key is reading the water and adjusting our approach based on what the fish are telling us.
Target Species You'll Hook
Redfish are the stars of St. Bernard's inshore waters, and for good reason. These copper-colored fighters average 20 to 30 inches here, with plenty of slot fish that make for great table fare. During summer months, they move into the shallows early in the morning to feed on crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. What makes reds so exciting is their aggressive strikes and bulldog fights – they'll make long runs and use their broad sides to fight you all the way to the boat. You'll find them cruising oyster reefs, along marsh grass lines, and in potholes where they ambush prey. The best part about St. Bernard reds is they're year-round residents, so they know every inch of these waters and use it to their advantage.
Speckled trout bring a different kind of excitement to the mix. These spotted beauties are more finicky than reds, but that makes landing them even more satisfying. In summer, they typically run 14 to 18 inches, with some real lunkers pushing over 20. Trout have softer mouths than reds, so the fight is more about finesse – they'll jump, make quick direction changes, and test your drag. They love structure like oyster reefs, drop-offs near marsh edges, and areas where fresh and salt water mix. Early morning is prime time for trout, especially when we're throwing topwater baits. They school up more than reds, so when you find one, there's usually more around.
Time to Book Your Spot
This seasonal trip runs Monday through Saturday from May 11 to August 29, hitting the absolute prime time for inshore fishing in St. Bernard. You'll need a valid Louisiana fishing license, and I require a non-refundable deposit to hold your date – these trips fill up fast once word gets out about the bite. With only two spots available, you're guaranteed personal attention and access to my best fishing spots. Six hours gives us plenty of time to work different areas and adjust our game plan based on conditions. Whether you're an experienced angler looking to dial in your inshore techniques or someone who just wants to catch fish and have a good time, this trip delivers. Contact me directly to check available dates and get your booking locked in. The fish are biting, the weather's perfect, and these St. Bernard waters are producing some of the best inshore action you'll find anywhere along the Gulf Coast.