Spring Break Night Fishing in Lafitte Louisiana
Private Trip
Fishing
Night fishing charter targets redfish and alligator gar in Louisiana marshesSpecialized shallowwater boat accesses remote Barataria Basin backwatersFamilyfriendly spring trip accommodates all skill levels with equipment included
When the sun drops behind the cypress trees and the Louisiana marsh comes alive, that's when Captain Brandon Phillips fires up his specialized 22ft Gator Tail boat for what locals know is some of the best fishing action you'll find in the Barataria Basin. This isn't your typical day trip - we're talking about a top-rated night fishing charter that runs from March 1st through May 1st, designed specifically for anglers who want to experience the spring feeding frenzy when redfish, alligator gar, and monster catfish are most active in these legendary backwaters.
Your adventure kicks off at 6:30 PM from Lafitte, giving you just enough daylight to watch the marsh transform as darkness settles in. Captain Phillips has been working these waters for years, and he knows exactly where to position his shallow-draft Gator Tail to put you on fish when they start moving into the shallows to feed. The 4-5 hour trip is perfect for up to three anglers, making it ideal for families with kids five and older or small groups of serious fishermen looking to target some of Louisiana's most sought-after species. You'll be fishing the prime spring months when water temperatures are just right and baitfish are abundant, creating perfect conditions for trophy catches. All your rods, reels, tackle, and bait are included - just bring your valid Louisiana fishing license and get ready for some serious action.
The Gator Tail boat is the secret weapon here, allowing Captain Phillips to navigate into skinny water areas where bigger boats simply can't go. We're talking about getting into those back pockets and shallow flats where redfish cruise and alligator gar surface to gulp air. The boat's quiet operation and shallow draft mean you can sneak up on feeding fish without spooking them. During spring nights, we'll be using a mix of live bait and cut bait, depending on what the fish are telling us. For redfish, fresh shrimp and mullet work wonders, while alligator gar respond well to cut carp or gizzard shad. The captain carries quality circle hooks and appropriate tackle for each target species, from lighter setups for drum and catfish to heavy-duty gear capable of handling a monster gar. Night fishing requires different approaches than daytime angling - sounds become more important, and fish often feed more aggressively in the darkness, making for some heart-pounding hookups.
Redfish are the crown jewel of Louisiana inshore fishing, and spring nights in the Barataria Basin offer world-class opportunities to connect with these bronze bulldogs. These fish typically range from 20 to 35 inches in our waters, with the occasional oversized bull pushing 40-plus inches. March through May is prime time because redfish are actively feeding to prepare for their summer spawning runs, and they'll hit baits aggressively in shallow water after dark. What makes them so exciting is their initial run - when a big red takes off, it's pure power and determination that'll test your drag and your nerves.
Alligator Gar are prehistoric monsters that can live over 50 years and grow to impressive sizes in Louisiana's marshes. Spring nights are when these ancient predators become most active, often surfacing to gulp air and creating opportunities for sight fishing. A typical gar in these waters runs 4-6 feet, but Captain Phillips has put clients on fish pushing 7 feet and 150-plus pounds. The fight is unlike anything else - they're strong, they jump, and they'll test every knot in your tackle. Landing one of these living fossils is a customer favorite experience that creates stories you'll tell for years.
Blue Catfish in the Barataria system grow fat and sassy, with 20-40 pounders being common catches during spring nights. These whiskered fighters are most active after dark when they move into shallower areas to feed on everything from crawfish to small baitfish. What anglers love about targeting big cats is the surprise factor - you never know if that next bite will be a solid 15-pounder or a true giant that'll have you hanging on for dear life.
Black Drum are the bulldozers of the marsh, often found in the same areas as redfish but offering a completely different fight. Spring specimens typically range from 15 to 40 pounds, with their powerful, bulldogging runs testing your tackle and technique. They're renowned for their stubborn nature once hooked - instead of flashy runs, they'll dig deep and use their broad sides to fight every inch of the way to the boat.
Common Carp might surprise you with their fighting ability and the role they play in the Louisiana ecosystem. These golden warriors can reach impressive sizes in our nutrient-rich waters, and they're incredibly strong fighters that will run line and test your patience. Many visiting anglers are shocked at how hard a 20-pound carp can pull, making them a trending target for light tackle enthusiasts looking for a different kind of challenge.
This seasonal charter runs only during the prime spring months, making it one of the most sought-after fishing experiences in the Lafitte area. Captain Phillips limits his trips to three anglers to ensure everyone gets personal attention and the best possible fishing experience. The combination of night fishing, shallow water access, and peak seasonal activity creates perfect conditions for memorable catches and family-friendly adventure. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to add some Louisiana trophy fish to your list or a family wanting to introduce kids to the magic of night fishing in the marsh, this charter delivers the authentic backcountry experience that keeps customers coming back year after year. Don't wait - spring dates fill up fast, and this is your chance to experience some of the best night fishing action Louisiana has to offer with a captain who knows these waters like the back of his hand.
Our custom 22ft Gator Tail is purpose-built for Louisiana's shallow marsh waters where trophy redfish and alligator gar hide. This reinforced aluminum boat cuts through just inches of water, getting you to productive spots other boats can't reach. The open floor design gives you plenty of room to fight big fish, while the stable platform keeps you steady when that monster gar decides to jump. GPS and fish finder help locate structure and baitfish, while the radar cuts through fog when visibility drops. VHF radio keeps us connected to other boats and marine traffic. Captain Brandon knows these Barataria Basin waters like the back of his hand, and this shallow-water machine lets him put you on fish in skinny water where the big ones feed after dark.
Atractosteus SpatulaAlligator gar are living dinosaurs - prehistoric fish that can stretch 4-6 feet and weigh over 100 pounds. These armored giants cruise our backwater channels and bayous, looking like floating logs until they move. Spring is peak season when they're shallow and active before summer heat drives them deeper. What draws people is the sheer uniqueness - you're literally fishing for a creature that's barely changed in millions of years. They breathe air like we do, so you'll see them rolling on the surface. The fight is more about endurance than speed, like wrestling an alligator. Fair warning: they're catch-and-release only in Louisiana. My advice is to use big live bait on heavy tackle and be patient. These ancient predators won't rush their meals.
Pogonias CromisBlack drum are the bulldogs of our marsh - thick-bodied fighters that can push 30+ pounds in Louisiana waters. These gray-black bruisers love oyster beds and muddy flats where they crush shells with powerful jaws. Spring is prime time when they school up for spawning, making them easier to target. You'll hear them "drumming" underwater - a weird croaking sound they make during mating season. What guests love is the strong, steady fight and the fact that smaller ones (under 15 pounds) make excellent table fare. Bigger fish get tough and stringy, so we usually release the monsters. Pro tip: use fresh blue crab for bait and fish it right on bottom near oyster reefs. The shell-crushing sound often attracts other drum in the area.
Ictalurus FurcatusBlue catfish are the bulldozers of our bayou system. These slate-blue brutes can hit 30+ pounds and fight like they're twice that size. They love deep holes and muddy channels, especially where creeks meet our main waterways. Spring nights are money because they're moving shallow to feed before spawning season. What guests love is the pure power - once you hook one, it's game on for 10-15 minutes of drag-screaming runs. They'll eat just about anything, but fresh-cut bait works best. The meat's excellent eating too, firm and mild. Here's the trick: let your bait sit dead still on bottom. Blues are opportunistic feeders, not chasers. Bring good gloves because these slick customers will slip right through your hands when you're trying to land them.
Cyprinus CarpioCommon carp are the sleepers of our spring fishing. These golden-bronze fighters average 10-20 pounds but can push 30+ in our nutrient-rich waters. They love shallow, muddy areas where they root around for crawfish and vegetation. Spring warming gets them active and feeding heavily before spawning. What surprises folks is how hard they fight - they'll strip drag and make multiple runs like a redfish. They're also smart, so they keep you honest. Not everyone's favorite table fare, but they're fun to target on light tackle. The secret is fishing corn or bread balls on bottom rigs in areas where you see muddy water from them feeding. Look for bubbles rising to the surface - that's usually carp disturbing the bottom while they feed.
Sciaenops OcellatusRedfish are the bread and butter of Louisiana marsh fishing. These copper-colored fighters average 20-30 inches and love cruising our shallow flats in 1-4 feet of water. You'll spot their distinctive black eyespot near the tail - it's nature's way of confusing predators. Spring nights are prime time since they're actively feeding after winter. What makes them special? They hit hard, fight dirty, and taste great on the table with that mild, sweet flavor. Plus, watching one blow up on a topwater lure in skinny water never gets old. My tip: when you see them tailing in the shallows, cast past them and work your bait back slowly. They spook easy but once hooked, they'll give you a battle you won't forget.
Lafitte, LA