Southwest Louisiana offers arguably the best redfish fishing on the planet. It is also a year round fishery. However, there are a few key nuances to understand when packing your bags for Louisiana depending upon the time of year you are planning to visit.
Generally speaking, the southern Louisiana marsh has a very mild climate most of the year. However, if you are fishing in the autumn or winter months you should be prepared with cold weather gear! There is a common misconception that “it cannot be that cold in Louisiana.” Trust us … it can be bonechilling cold on a windy wintery day on the marsh. Rods, reels and tackle setups remain the same year round for the most part - other than swapping out warm and cold water lines seasonally.
Whether it is in-store, online, or through a virtual outfitting appointment, we would love to lend a hand getting your gear organized for a trip to the marsh!
Seasonality & Climate for Louisiana Redfish
Winter Fishing (December 1 - March 1)
Be prepared for cold weather! Make sure to have long pants, fleece jackets and/or vests, rain jacket, long underwear, a warm hat, and proper gloves. Temperatures can easily drop below freezing in the winter, and early morning boat runs can be frigid. Although you should also be prepared for milder conditions, you can never have too many clothes during the winter months. Dress in layers to accommodate changes in weather as well.
Spring Fishing (March 1 - May 15)
You can expect a combination of cooler days and milder days during the spring months. Typically, anglers experience cooler mornings that dictate a jacket and long pants in the morning followed by warmer conditions as the sun comes up. Be prepared with layered clothing to shed and put back on accordingly.
Summer Fishing (May 15 - September 30)
The key to staying comfortable on the marsh in the summertime is to remain cool while protecting yourself from the sun. Lightweight clothing with plenty of ventilation is recommended. Odds are you will probably get wet when running in the boat or during a rain shower. You want your fishing clothing to shed water and dry quickly in the humid air.
Fall Fishing (October 1 - December 1)
Fishing in the early fall (September - mid October) can still be quite warm. Similar to the springtime fishing, come prepared for both cooler and warmer weather. By November 1st we recommend you bring some warmer jackets and expect to wear long pants almost every day. When the first major cold fronts arrive in November, temperatures can plummet quickly from day to day. Be prepared for both mild and cold weather fishing as anything could happen with your forecast.
MANDATORY ITEMS
- Water Resistant Boat Shoes + Bibs (Fall & Winter Season)
- You need good polarized glasses and a GOOD RAIN JACKET year round!
- Fall and winter trips can be MUCH COOLER on the water than you might expect from looking at the weather forecast. Make sure to dress in layers and be prepared to be chilly on the water – especially during morning boat runs.
- There is ZERO wading opportunity on the marsh. During the autumn and winter you just want insulated and water resistant shoes that are boat friendly. During the spring and summer months most anglers have sandals or are barefooted.
- Fly Rods for a Spring / Early Summer trip are 7-8 weights with floating lines.
- Fly Rods for a Late Summer / Winter trip are 7-8 weights with floating lines as well as a 9-10 weight for the bigger “bull reds” that can be found this time of year.
- Consider bringing a 10 weight year round for chances at Jack Crevalle and big black drum.