About Lake Cataouache, LA

Lake Cataouatche is an incredibly large lake that can be found in the southwestern portion of New Orleans, Louisiana, in St. Charles County, Los Angeles. It measures 9,280 acres and is connected to Lake Salvador by the Bayou Couba and Bayou Bordeaux. Besides that, the lake has an average depth of 6 ft. 

The lake is known for the bass fish. As a matter of fact, during the Bassmaster Classic XLI, it is reported to have a 98% coverage of the invasive species hydrilla. These invasive aquatic species have been found to contribute to grass beds for bass. Furthermore, during the same event, Kevin VanDam fished here on the last day of the competition. He got a bite from a 29-pound bass in this lake, which made him win the tournament. 

Aside from being a favorite spot for fishing tournaments, there has also been a considerable controversy involving Lake Cataouatche. They made a diversion canal that allowed water from the Mississippi River. As a result, the salinity level of the lake changed, and more invasive species inhabited it. 

All About Fishing in Lake Cataouache, LA

The waters of Lake Cataouache are mainly freshwater. The opening of the diversion canal that allowed water from the Mississippi River has contributed more nutrients and turbidity to the lake. Besides that, it also increased the submerged aquatic vegetation, which is the essential form of intricate cover for marine animals inhabiting the lake.

There are many fish species thriving in this lake, which is why it has become a popular spot for anglers. The fish species that can be found here include largemouth bass, yellow bass, white bass, red drum, blue catfish, black crappie, freshwater drum, bigmouth buffalo, sunfish, rainbow trout, white sucker, bluegill, and crappie. 

As mentioned, Lake Cataouatche is famous for its bass. Bass such as the largemouth bass, yellow bass, and white bass feed on small invertebrates such as midge larva, crabs, and shrimps. When they turn into an adult, they become piscivorous and starts to devour small fish species like shads, silversides, and young sunfish. With their diet, an effective fishing technique to catch a bass would be baitcasting. Aside from that, using red hooks and lures is also a good idea since this fish seems to be attracted to the color red. 

Another popular gamefish that can be found in this lake is the bluegill. These fish’s favorite food is insects and they are known to feed on both aquatic and terrestrial insects. Besides that, snails, zooplankton, small fish, and fish eggs are also included in their diet. The best way to catch them is by using the baitcasting technique using a small worm. 

Both inshore and offshore fishing can be enjoyed in the lake. Use of boats, kayaks, and canoes are allowed.

Fishing Seasonality

When fishing for bass, you must consider that every season has its distinct opportunities and challenges. Bass is present all year round, but the best action is presented during spring and fall. Meanwhile, if you are interested in getting a bite from bluegill, it is helpful to take note that they commonly spawn when the water temperature hits a 70-degree mark. This fish species loves warm sunny weather and their numbers become good during early spring.

Fishing Seasonality

When fishing for bass, you must consider that every season has its distinct opportunities and challenges. Bass is present all year round, but the best action is presented during spring and fall. Meanwhile, if you are interested in getting a bite from bluegill, it is helpful to take note that they commonly spawn when the water temperature hits a 70-degree mark. This fish species loves warm sunny weather and their numbers become good during early spring.

All About Fishing in Lake Cataouache, LA

The waters of Lake Cataouache are mainly freshwater. The opening of the diversion canal that allowed water from the Mississippi River has contributed more nutrients and turbidity to the lake. Besides that, it also increased the submerged aquatic vegetation, which is the essential form of intricate cover for marine animals inhabiting the lake.

There are many fish species thriving in this lake, which is why it has become a popular spot for anglers. The fish species that can be found here include largemouth bass, yellow bass, white bass, red drum, blue catfish, black crappie, freshwater drum, bigmouth buffalo, sunfish, rainbow trout, white sucker, bluegill, and crappie. 

As mentioned, Lake Cataouatche is famous for its bass. Bass such as the largemouth bass, yellow bass, and white bass feed on small invertebrates such as midge larva, crabs, and shrimps. When they turn into an adult, they become piscivorous and starts to devour small fish species like shads, silversides, and young sunfish. With their diet, an effective fishing technique to catch a bass would be baitcasting. Aside from that, using red hooks and lures is also a good idea since this fish seems to be attracted to the color red. 

Another popular gamefish that can be found in this lake is the bluegill. These fish’s favorite food is insects and they are known to feed on both aquatic and terrestrial insects. Besides that, snails, zooplankton, small fish, and fish eggs are also included in their diet. The best way to catch them is by using the baitcasting technique using a small worm. 

Both inshore and offshore fishing can be enjoyed in the lake. Use of boats, kayaks, and canoes are allowed.