Learn to Fish Redfish & Black Drum in Barataria Waters
Private Trip
Lakes/Reservoirs/Ponds Fishing
Sixhour beginnerfriendly charter targets redfish and black drumAll fishing gear provided with expert guidance includedAccommodates up to four anglers in calm lake waters
Looking to dip your toes into the fishing world without the intimidation factor? Ron Ron Fishing Charters has crafted the perfect introduction to Louisiana's legendary fishing scene right here in Barataria. This 6-hour guided trip is designed specifically for newcomers who want to learn the ropes while actually catching fish. The calm lake waters provide the ideal classroom, and with expert guidance every step of the way, you'll be surprised how quickly you pick up the basics. We're talking about a laid-back day where the focus is on having fun, learning proper techniques, and hopefully landing some of Louisiana's most sought-after species including redfish, trout, sheepshead, and flounder.
This isn't your typical throw-you-in-the-deep-end fishing experience. Captain Ron and his crew understand that everyone starts somewhere, and they've fine-tuned this trip to give beginners the confidence they need. The Barataria area offers protected waters that stay relatively calm even when the Gulf gets choppy, making it perfect for first-timers who might be worried about seasickness or rough conditions. You'll start with the fundamentals – how to hold a rod properly, basic casting techniques, and reading the water for signs of fish. The pace is relaxed, giving you time to practice each skill before moving on to the next. All fishing gear is provided, from rods and reels to tackle and bait, so you don't need to worry about what to bring or whether you have the right equipment. The boat is equipped with everything needed for a successful day, including fish finders to locate the best spots and a variety of tackle options to match whatever's biting.
The beauty of lake fishing in Barataria lies in its versatility – you'll get exposure to multiple fishing techniques during your trip. Bottom fishing with live and cut bait is a staple here, especially effective for black drum and sheepshead around structure. You'll learn how to properly rig Carolina rigs and fish finder rigs, understanding when and why to use each setup. Drift fishing is another technique you'll master, letting the boat move naturally with the current while you work soft plastics and live bait through productive areas. For redfish and trout, you might try your hand at sight fishing in the shallows, where polarized sunglasses become your best friend as you learn to spot fish movement and feeding signs. The tackle box stays simple but effective – circle hooks for live bait fishing, jig heads paired with soft plastics, and various weights to match the conditions. Live shrimp, finger mullet, and cut bait make up the primary offerings, though artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics often steal the show when fish are actively feeding.
Redfish are the crown jewel of Louisiana's inshore waters, and Barataria's lakes hold some beautiful specimens. These copper-colored fighters typically range from 20 to 30 inches in this area, with some reaching slot-busting proportions. Redfish are aggressive feeders that respond well to both live bait and artificials, making them perfect for beginners. They fight hard but not erratically, giving new anglers a chance to feel the fish and learn proper fighting techniques. Spring through fall offers the most consistent action, with fish feeding heavily in preparation for cooler months.
Sea trout might be the most willing biters you'll encounter, especially during the warmer months. These spotted beauties average 14 to 18 inches in local waters, with occasional specimens pushing into the 20-inch range. Trout have soft mouths, so they teach you the importance of drag settings and gentle hook sets. They're most active during dawn and dusk periods, but the protected lake environment often keeps them feeding throughout the day. Their willingness to hit both live bait and artificials makes them ideal confidence builders for first-time anglers.
Sheepshead are the technical specialists of the bunch, known for their bait-stealing abilities and strong, stubborn fights. These black-and-white striped fish average 12 to 16 inches but pack surprising power for their size. They're structure-oriented, hanging around pilings, rocks, and other hard bottom areas where they feed on crabs and barnacles. Learning to catch sheepshead teaches patience and hook-setting timing – skills that translate to all other fishing scenarios. Fall and winter months typically produce the best sheepshead action.
Southern flounder are the ambush predators of the system, lying in wait on sandy bottoms and striking with lightning speed. These flatfish typically run 14 to 18 inches in Barataria waters, with their unique body shape and fighting style providing a completely different angling experience. They're excellent table fare, making them a favorite target for anglers who enjoy eating their catch. Flounder fishing teaches bottom contact and subtle bite detection – valuable skills for any developing angler.
Black drum round out the target species list with their bulldogging fighting style and impressive size potential. While smaller drum in the 16 to 24-inch range are most common, larger specimens occasionally make appearances. These fish are bottom dwellers with excellent hearing, often responding to noise and vibration. They're perfect for teaching patience and proper bottom fishing techniques, as they typically require waiting for the fish to find your bait rather than aggressive presentation methods.
This beginner-friendly charter represents exceptional value for anyone wanting to break into Louisiana fishing or brush up on fundamental skills. The 6-hour timeframe provides ample opportunity to try different techniques and target multiple species without feeling rushed. With all gear provided and expert instruction included, you're getting a comprehensive fishing education along with a fun day on the water. The trip accommodates up to 4 anglers with the base price covering 2, making it perfect for couples, friends, or family members wanting to learn together. Just remember to bring your own snacks and drinks, and keep in mind that deposits are non-refundable.
You'll be fishing aboard a solid 2017 Blazer Bay 2420 that's perfect for navigating Louisiana's lake waters. This 24-foot boat runs on a reliable 300HP Yamaha diesel engine and cruises smoothly at up to 42 knots when you need to cover water quickly to reach the best fishing spots. The wireless trolling motor lets Captain Ron position the boat quietly without spooking redfish and black drum in shallow areas. GPS navigation keeps you on course through Barataria's maze of channels, while the fish finder helps locate schools and structure where fish like to hang out. With space for up to 4 anglers, there's plenty of room to cast without tangling lines, making it ideal for beginners learning proper technique. The stable platform gives you confidence whether you're working topwater lures or dropping baits near oyster reefs where these Louisiana game fish love to feed.
Pogonias CromisBlack Drum are the heavyweights of our shallow water fishing, running anywhere from 5 to 30 pounds with some monsters pushing 50+ pounds. They cruise oyster beds, muddy flats, and creek mouths in 2-10 feet of water, using their powerful jaws to crush crabs and oysters. Spring is prime time when they school up for spawning, making them easier targets. What draws folks to them is that deep, thumping fight and the drumming sound they make when hooked. Smaller ones under 15 pounds are great table fare with firm, mild meat. The bigger fish are better released since the meat gets tough. They're perfect for beginners since they're not picky eaters and fight at a manageable pace. Here's a local trick: use fresh blue crab or peeler crab on the bottom - it stays on the hook better than shrimp and the drums can't resist it.
Sciaenops OcellatusRedfish are the stars of our shallow water fishing, easily recognized by their copper-bronze color and distinctive black spot near the tail. Most run 20-28 inches and 3-8 pounds, perfect for beginners but still exciting for experienced anglers. They cruise oyster reefs, grass flats, and shorelines in 1-4 feet of water - sometimes so shallow their backs show above the surface. Fall and spring offer the best action, but they bite year-round here in Louisiana. What guests love most is their strong, steady fight and willingness to hit both live bait and lures. They're also excellent eating when kept in the slot limit. The cool factor comes from sight-fishing - actually seeing the fish before you cast. My go-to technique: work a gold spoon or soft plastic slowly along grass edges during moving tides. The key is staying quiet and making accurate casts ahead of cruising fish.
Salmo TruttaSpeckled Trout are our most consistent biters, running 14-20 inches and 1-3 pounds on average, with some nice 4-5 pounders mixed in. They love grass flats, shallow bays, and drop-offs in 3-8 feet of water. Spring through fall are peak times, but they bite year-round in Louisiana - just move to deeper holes during cold snaps. What makes them special is they're aggressive feeders that hit both live bait and artificial lures hard. The fight is fun without being overwhelming, perfect for beginners. Plus, they're outstanding table fare with tender, flaky white meat that's not too fishy. You can keep them coming by working topwater plugs or soft plastics over grass beds at dawn and dusk. Pro tip: use a popping cork with live shrimp about 18 inches below - the noise draws them in and the natural bait seals the deal.
Archosargus ProbatocephalusSheepshead are the "convict fish" of our waters with their distinctive black and white stripes, but what really gets people talking are their human-like teeth. They typically run 1-4 pounds and 14-18 inches, though 6-8 pounders show up around docks and pilings. These guys stick tight to structure - bridges, docks, and any barnacle-covered surfaces where they scrape off their favorite foods. They're active year-round but really fire up in spring when they move shallow to spawn. Guests love the challenge because they're notorious bait thieves with light bites, but once hooked, they're strong fighters. The payoff is some of the best eating fish in the Gulf - sweet, white, flaky meat that's hard to beat. My secret: use small hooks with fresh shrimp and keep your bait right against the structure. When you feel them picking at it, set the hook hard and fast.
Paralichthys LethostigmaSouthern Flounder are fascinating flatfish that love hanging out on muddy or sandy bottoms in 2-8 feet of water. They're masters of camouflage, burying themselves to ambush shrimp, crabs, and small fish. Most run 15-18 inches and 2-5 pounds, but bigger ones show up regularly. What makes them special is both eyes are on their left side - pretty wild when you first see one! They're active year-round in our Louisiana waters, but fall and winter often produce the best action. Guests love the challenge since they're sneaky biters and fight harder than you'd expect. Plus, they're excellent eating with sweet, white meat. My tip: use a slow drift with live shrimp on a light jig head near bottom structure. When you feel that subtle tap, don't hesitate - set the hook firmly since they can spit the bait quickly.
Louisiana