Louisiana is truly the “sportsman’s paradise,” because it does have something for everyone. The diversity of habitat throughout Louisiana is staggering. The outdoor opportunities are endless, because Louisiana has the largest amount of wetland habitat of any state within the lower 48. This diversity of habitats supports fishing opportunities freshwater, saltwater, brackish water, offshore, inshore, marsh, barrier islands and more. Each particular habitat is in overdrive to produce the maximum amount of life possible.
Freshwater elements consist of the Mississippi River and all its tributaries and related watersheds. There are many lakes, ponds and marshlands that contain many popular species of fish such as largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish. There are many other species associated with freshwater like frogs, turtles and alligators to name a few.
Brackish waters are created when freshwater mixes with saltwater. Many fish have the ability to live in moderate levels of both fresh and salt water. This creates areas where both largemouth bass and redfish might be caught together. The salinity of this area is in a constant state of fluctuation due to rainfall or tidal exchange.
Inshore estuaries and coastal marshes go on for miles in Louisiana. These rich and varied habitats create homes and nurseries for many types of fish and crustaceans. It is the perfect place for shrimp to grow and vast schools of redfish and speckled trout to feed on them. These coastal areas have become known as one of the best inshore fisheries in the world. Anglers travel from all over the world to experience this amazing fishery.
The offshore waters of Louisiana are just as prolific. The blue waters of the Gulf sweep over the fish-attracting structures of oilrigs and reefs giving anglers incredible opportunities to catch offshore gamefish of all types. Grouper, snapper and amberjack are just a few of the bottom fish that make their homes in the natural and man-made structures along the coast. Kingfish, cobia, tripletail, redfish and trout are gathered on the nearshore rigs, while tuna, wahoo and marlin feed around the offshore rigs.
