Inshore Species Overview

The term “inshore” is used to describe a wide variety of fishing methods, but all taking place in relatively shallow waters in comparison to offshore fishing. Inshore waters are those state waters inside of islands, shorelines, beaches, passes and other land masses that border the Gulf of Mexico proper. These waters include, but are not limited to, the sounds, bays, lakes, bayous, and estuaries up to the Freshwater/Saltwater dividing line.

Marshes, passes, oyster reefs and bayous are all likely places to find shallow water gamefish. Inshore oilrigs and the associated hardware can also act as habitat for inshore fish. Louisiana is also active in building inshore artificial reefs and hard bottom areas using money from fishing license sales. These taxes go directly back into the fisheries, for the benefit of the fishermen. Growing daily in popularity, inshore saltwater fishing gives many more anglers access to big fish without the high dollar expenses of offshore fishing.

In Louisiana, the speckled trout and redfish are king, but flounder, black drum and many more species round out the list of delicious and fun fish to catch. The accessability of inshore fishing is and advantage for many anglers. The sheltered and shallow waters can be fished from shoreside, kayak, canoe and skiff. This versatility gives many people access to the rich and diverse fishery that exists in Louisiana.