The Kraken Hunt - Southern Louisiana Fishing
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Target Bull Reds, Alligator Gar, and Bull Sharks for the Wicked SlamFish Southern Louisiana's marshes and Lake Pontchartrain's depthsSmall group experience with maximum 2 guests per trip
When you're talking about legendary fishing in Louisiana, you're talking about chasing monsters that most anglers only dream about. The Kraken Hunt isn't your typical inshore charter - this is a world-class quest for the holy grail of Louisiana fishing: the Wicked Slam. Picture yourself in the maze of Southern Louisiana's marshes and the expansive waters of Lake Pontchartrain, casting for bull reds that'll test your drag system, prehistoric alligator gar that look like they swam out of the Jurassic period, and bull sharks that'll make your heart skip a beat. This customer favorite trip accommodates just 2 anglers, so you're getting the personalized attention that separates top-rated charters from the rest of the pack.
Your captain from Wicked Fishing LLC knows these waters like the back of his hand, and that's exactly what you need when you're hunting the big three. The day starts early in Louisiana's famous marsh country, where the brackish water creates the perfect ecosystem for some of the most sought-after species in the Gulf Coast. Lake Pontchartrain adds another dimension to this adventure - its deeper waters and structure changes give you shots at species that most inshore trips can't touch. You'll be moving between different zones throughout the day, reading water conditions, watching for bait activity, and positioning for the best shots at each target species. The intimate 2-angler setup means you're not fighting for rod time or prime fishing spots. Your guide can focus on putting you on fish instead of managing a crowd, and that makes all the difference when you're targeting trophy-class specimens.
The beauty of this renowned fishing experience lies in adapting your approach for completely different predators. In the marshes, you'll be working shallow flats and drop-offs where bull reds cruise looking for crabs and baitfish. Heavy tackle is the name of the game here - these copper-colored bulldogs will test every knot and drag setting you've got. When targeting alligator gar, the strategy shifts completely. You're looking for deeper holes and structure where these ancient predators lurk, often using live bait or cut bait presentations that can handle their bone-crushing jaws. The bull shark component adds another layer of complexity, requiring moves to deeper water sections of Lake Pontchartrain where these apex predators patrol. Your guide carries specialized gear for each target species, from heavy spinning setups to conventional tackle that can handle whatever decides to eat your bait. Wire leaders, circle hooks, and serious drag systems aren't suggestions on this trip - they're necessities.
Redfish in Louisiana marshes are the stuff of legend, and the bulls you're targeting here are the cream of the crop. These bronze bruisers can exceed 40 inches and will give you a fight you'll remember for years. Peak season runs from late summer through early winter when they school up in deeper water, but Louisiana's year-round fishery means you've got shots at quality fish any time. What makes catching a bull red special isn't just the size - it's the way they use the current and structure to their advantage, making runs that'll have you wondering if your reel's going to hold up.
Spotted Gar might seem like an unusual target, but these toothy predators are actually a blast to catch and an important part of the ecosystem diversity you'll encounter. They're ambush feeders that lurk in vegetation and strike with lightning speed. While they're not as massive as their alligator gar cousins, spotted gar put up a scrappy fight and their prehistoric appearance makes for great photos. They're most active during warmer months and often found in shallower areas where their camouflage gives them the advantage.
Alligator Gar represent the pinnacle of freshwater trophy fishing in Louisiana. These living dinosaurs can reach massive proportions - we're talking fish that can exceed 6 feet and weigh over 200 pounds. They're found in the deeper holes and bayous connected to Lake Pontchartrain, and hooking one is like connecting with a submarine. Spring through fall offers the best opportunities, but these ancient predators are active year-round in Louisiana's mild climate. The fight is unlike anything else in freshwater fishing - long, powerful runs combined with their ability to roll and thrash make landing one a true accomplishment.
Bull Sharks in Lake Pontchartrain are what separate this trip from standard inshore charters. These apex predators can handle the lake's brackish water and grow to serious proportions. Summer months typically offer the best action as they follow bait schools into the lake system. What makes catching a bull shark special isn't just their reputation - it's the raw power and stamina they bring to the fight. When you hook one, you know immediately that you're connected to something that belongs at the top of the food chain.
Black Drum round out the target species list and shouldn't be underestimated. These bottom-dwelling powerhouses can grow massive in Louisiana waters, with fish over 50 pounds not uncommon. They're structure-oriented fish that use their crushing power to feed on shellfish and crabs. Fall and winter months often produce the biggest specimens, and their bulldogging fighting style makes them a worthy addition to any slam attempt. What many anglers love about black drum is their reliability - when conditions are right, you can usually count on finding them around the structure they call home.
The Wicked Slam isn't just a catchy name - it represents one of the most challenging and rewarding fishing experiences you can have in Louisiana waters. With species ranging from prehistoric gar to apex predator sharks, this best trip offers variety that most charters can't match. The 2-angler limit ensures you get the personalized attention and prime fishing opportunities that trophy hunting demands. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking for your next challenge or someone ready to step up to serious fishing
Atractosteus SpatulaThe true monsters of our backwaters, these living dinosaurs can stretch 4-6 feet and weigh over 100 pounds. They patrol deep river bends near shallow pools, breathing both air and water like something out of Jurassic Park. Late summer heat brings the best shots at big ones. What makes them bucket-list fish? That prehistoric look, bone-like scales, and the sheer size - landing one is a lifetime achievement. They're ambush predators, so patience pays off. Since they're protected, it's all catch-and-release. My go-to setup: fresh carp or mullet on a 6/0 treble under a bright bobber. When one takes your bait, give it time to swallow before setting the hook.
Pogonias CromisThe heavyweights of the drum family, these bottom-huggers can push 30-90 pounds with jaws strong enough to crush oysters. They patrol muddy flats, oyster beds, and creek mouths in 2-15 feet of water. Spring spawning season is prime time when they school up and make those signature drumming sounds you can actually hear underwater. Why target them? Smaller ones under 15 pounds are excellent table fare, while the big bulls provide serious arm-burning fights. They're smart feeders that require finesse. Local secret: fresh blue crab is hard to beat since catfish won't steal it like shrimp. Keep your bait on bottom and stay patient - they're notorious for light bites before committing.
Carcharhinus LeucasThe apex predator that makes our brackish waters legendary. These thick-bodied bruisers run 8-12 feet and pack 200-300 pounds of pure muscle. They cruise everywhere from deep Lake Pontchartrain to surprisingly shallow marsh channels. Summer months bring them inland to feed and cool off. What makes them special? They're one of the few sharks that can handle fresh water, making every cast an adventure. The fight is absolutely brutal - they'll test every knot and drag setting you've got. We practice strict catch-and-release for safety and conservation. Best tip I can share: fresh eel is like candy to them, and that heavy oil scent travels far in our murky waters.
Sciaenops OcellatusThese copper-backed beauties are what put Louisiana on the fishing map. Bulls run 28-45 inches and pack serious punch in shallow water. You'll find them cruising 1-4 foot flats around oyster reefs and grass beds, especially on mud bottoms. Fall and spring offer the best action when they're feeding hard. What makes them special? That distinctive black spot near the tail, explosive topwater strikes, and sweet, flaky meat that's hard to beat. They fight dirty too - strong runs and head shakes that'll test your drag. My local trick: when you see their backs porpoising in skinny water, cast well ahead and let them come to you. They spook easy but eat aggressive.
Lepisosteus OculatusThese prehistoric predators bring a different kind of fight to our marshes. Most run 20-30 inches with those needle-sharp teeth and armored scales that date back to dinosaur times. They love calm, muddy backwaters with fallen timber and thick vegetation. Spring through summer is prime time, especially at night when they hunt most actively. What draws folks to them? Pure uniqueness - it's like hooking a living fossil. They're scrappy fighters despite being slow swimmers, and that toothy grin makes for great photos. Just remember, you can't eat them since their eggs are toxic. Pro tip: use a landing net and heavy braided line - those teeth will cut through mono in seconds.
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