How much fish can I expect to catch, and how big are they?
The focus of this charter is speckled trout, as they are fun to catch and the action can be non-stop. However, we also target redfish, as they offer a tougher fight. The limit for speckled trout per person is 25 and the limit for redfish per person is five. You can keep a lot of trout and quite a few reds! Speckled trout tend to be smaller and redfish tend to be bigger. Speckled trout are usually only a couple pounds and redfish can be up to 45lbs! Look at the "Photos" section to get a better look! It really is the greatest saltwater action you will ever be put on!
Those prices are kind of expensive, is there a way I can fish for cheaper?
Yes! You can split the cost of your trip with other people. A good place to find people to do this with is RodnReel. It isn't necessary to start an account to post there. Just be sure to include what date you are going, what you want to target and how many other people you want to fish with.
What if I am not good at fishing?
This is no concern at all. Captain Devin is there to help you have a good time. Our fishing in Louisiana is so easy, that the novices usually out-fish the veterans! Most of the people you see in the fishing pictures are people that have never picked up a fishing rod before in their life.
Do I need sunscreen or bug spray?
Yes on both accounts. The sun, even in the winter time, can sunburn your lips and exposed skin. It is strongly suggested you bring a sunscreen with an SPF tailored to you. We also suggest using a lip balm. We keep insect repellent on the boat along with a few other items to keep bugs away. During the summer and fall, you can expect the gnats, mosquitoes and horseflies to be present.
When do we leave the dock?
Departure times are not consistent due to fishing patterns and weather. With that said, the time you need to be at the dock is determined by Captain Devin. He will get in touch with you in advance to let you know what a good time is.
Will I need a fishing license?
Absolutely! This is not covered in the cost for the fishing trip. For your convenience, you can purchase your fishing license online at the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. You will need a saltwater fishing license. Non-resident 1-day saltwater licenses are $5. Click here to buy one.
What else do I need?
You should definitely bring the following: a hat, sunglasses, soft-soled shoes, rain gear, an ice chest to take your catch home, and a camera to take plenty of pictures.
How long can I expect to be on the water?
Plan on being on the water for eight hours. We don't charge by the hour. Being the best speckled trout fishing charter in LA, it's our mission to put you on fish. Be sure to bring enough food for a couple meals and something to drink.
What if there is bad weather?
The fish are already wet! We have done well in the wind and rain. However, if the client wants to reschedule then that is fine. Sometimes it's just not safe to launch the boat and in that case the trip will be rescheduled at no extra cost to the client.
Where do you launch your boat?
Captain Devin launches his boat at the best marina in Hopedale and Shell Beach: Breton Sound Marina. Look at the "Directions" link to find out how to get there.The marina is not far from New Orleans, the French Quarter and Bourbon Street. You will be contacted if this information changes.
Will the BP oil spill keep us from fishing?
No. While parts of Louisiana were considerably impacted by the oil spill, it has not negatively effected the fishing in Hopedale and Shell Beach. It's hard to gauge the resiliency of the Louisiana marsh. Oddly enough, the best fall fishing season I had yet was the autumn months following the oil spill. The 2011 fishing season for speckled trout, redfish and flounder was also outstanding. This lends creedence to Swamp Stallion Fishing Adventure's reputation as an outstanding fishing charter and the Louisiana Mississippi River Delta as being home of the finest fishing and outdoors!
Can I still fish in the winter?
Yes, you absolutely can! Southeast Louisiana has great fishing year round. Undoubtedly, large amounts of fish can still be had during the winter. Some of the best times to fish are late fall and early winter, but that certainly doesn't exclude spring and summer time!
Will we see dolphins?
While this is not the focus of the charter, it is not uncommon to see a lot of dolphins. Last year Captain Devin and his father spotted a pygmy sperm whale. Louisiana's estuaries hold all kinds of hidden treasures!
Does Swamp Stallion Fishing Adventures have lodging?
Yes! Captain Devin can refer outstanding lodging for yourself and your party. We are in the process of building an on-site camp for use by our customers.
Do we keep our fish?
Absolutely! Be sure to bring a cooler you can take your fillets home in.
We live out-of-state, can we still take our catch home?
Yes! Captain Devin can ship your fillets to your home for a small fee. Also, you can freeze the fish and then pack them with dry ice inside a cooler and take them home. We have had customers that put the fillets in their checked baggage.
How long will the fish keep?
Freezing fish fillets in bags of water has worked out well for Captain Devin. He has thawed them out over 6 months later and they were still good.
If you have any other questions, feel free to ask via the Contact form!
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