5.0(1 Reviews)Private Red Snapper Trip with Southern Pro
5.0(1 reviews)
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Target red snapper on nearshore reefs and ledgesFive to six hour charter accommodates up to six guestsSeasonal fishing available June through late August
When red snapper season opens in the Gulf, serious anglers know where to head – straight to Captain Chad and the crew at Southern Pro Charters. This isn't your typical crowded party boat experience. With just six spots available, you'll get the personal attention and prime fishing real estate that makes all the difference when these prized bottom dwellers are biting. Starting before dawn at 6:00 AM, you'll spend 5-6 hours working the productive waters off Venice, targeting one of the Gulf's most sought-after species during their peak season from June through August.
Captain Chad knows these waters like the back of his hand, and it shows from the moment you step aboard. You'll head out to carefully selected reefs and ledges where red snapper congregate in numbers that'll make your drag scream. The boat is rigged with quality tackle specifically chosen for bottom fishing – heavy enough to pull these fighters up from depth, but sensitive enough to feel every nibble. Don't worry about bringing gear; everything's provided and maintained to tournament standards. The early start isn't just for show – red snapper bite best in the cooler morning hours before the sun gets high and the boat traffic picks up. You'll be working structure anywhere from 30 to 60 feet deep, where these fish stack up like cordwood during the summer months. The trip stays nearshore, so you won't deal with the long runs and rough seas that come with deep-water fishing, but you'll still get that authentic Gulf fishing experience that keeps anglers coming back year after year.
Red snapper fishing is all about precision and patience. You'll be dropping baited rigs straight down to the bottom, working over specific structure that holds fish. Captain Chad uses circle hooks and quality weights to get your bait down fast and keep it in the strike zone. The technique is straightforward but effective – once you feel that distinctive snapper bite, it's all about setting the hook and keeping steady pressure as you work the fish up through the water column. These aren't lazy fish; red snapper fight hard and know every trick to wrap you around structure or shake the hook. You'll learn to read the bottom with your rod tip, feeling for the subtle differences between rocks, shell, and sand that indicate prime snapper habitat. The captain provides fresh bait that these fish can't resist – usually squid, cut bait, or live offerings depending on what's working best that week. Electronics play a huge role too; the boat's fish finder and GPS keep you positioned perfectly over productive spots while showing exactly where the fish are holding in the water column.
"I have fished with Captain Chad for several years. I consider him as a Great Charter Boat Captain and a good friend. On my most recent trip, do to some health issues of some members of my group, Captain. Chad went above and beyond to make everyone's trip fantastic! Chad's knowledge of the waters and fishing techniques are second to none. If you are considering a charter, I highly recommend an adventure with Captain Chad &Souther Pro Charters Their equipment is well maintained, always have plenty of bait, I believe they are one of the best! BOOK with them Today!!" - Kevin
Red snapper are the crown jewel of Gulf Coast fishing, and for good reason. These beautiful fish with their distinctive red coloration and large mouths are found around hard bottom structure, artificial reefs, and natural ledges throughout the summer season. Most red snapper you'll encounter on this trip range from 16 to 25 inches, with the occasional trophy fish pushing 30 inches and 15-20 pounds. They're aggressive feeders but also incredibly smart – you might see them on the fish finder but getting them to bite requires the right presentation and quality bait. What makes red snapper so popular isn't just the fight they put up, though they'll test your tackle and technique with powerful runs toward structure. These fish are absolutely delicious, with firm white meat that's perfect for grilling, blackening, or frying. The season runs from June 1 to August 28, and the timing isn't arbitrary – this is when red snapper are most active and accessible in nearshore waters. During spawning season, they aggregate in large numbers over specific types of bottom, making for some of the most productive fishing of the year. Venice's position at the mouth of the Mississippi River creates unique conditions with nutrient-rich water that supports abundant baitfish populations, which in turn attracts and holds red snapper in fishable numbers throughout the summer months.
Red snapper season waits for no one, and with only 89 days in the federal season, every trip counts. Captain Chad's reputation for putting clients on fish means his calendar fills up fast, especially during peak summer weekends. The 6-person limit ensures you'll have plenty of room to fish without fighting for rail space, but it also means fewer available spots throughout the season. Venice, Louisiana sits at the perfect launching point for accessing prime red snapper habitat without burning half your day running to the fishing grounds. You'll spend more time with lines in the water and less time traveling, which translates directly to more fish in the cooler. Remember to bring your own snacks, drinks, and a good cooler with ice – you'll want to keep those beautiful red snapper fresh for the dinner table. All fishing licenses, tackle, and bait are covered, so all you need to focus on is showing up ready to fish. The early morning departure means you'll be back at the dock with time to clean your catch and still have most of your day free. Don't let this season slip by without experiencing some of the Gulf's finest red snapper fishing with a captain who knows how to find them and put you on the bite.
Captain Chad's 39' Contender ST is built for serious red snapper action in the Gulf waters off Venice. Triple Yamaha 300s push this fishing machine to the productive reefs and ledges where snapper stack up during the summer season. The spacious deck gives all six anglers plenty of room to work the bottom while the fish finder pinpoints schools holding near structure. When you hook into those hard-fighting reds, you'll appreciate the stable platform and smooth ride this Contender delivers. The onboard icebox keeps your drinks cold during those hot summer mornings, and there's room in the fish box for your limit of tasty snapper fillets. Advanced electronics including GPS, radar, and VHF radio ensure safe navigation to the honey holes and back to the dock. Whether you're dropping jigs or live bait, this well-equipped vessel puts you on the fish with comfort and confidence in Gulf waters.
5.0 out of 5.0I have fished with Captain Chad for several years. I consider him as a Great Charter Boat Captain and a good friend. On my most re...
Kevin Goodlett, Thank you! You folks were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip.
Venice, Louisiana