Get ready to wet a line in some of the most productive waters the Gulf Coast has to offer. Captain Jay Winters is your ticket to a full day of action-packed fishing in the maze-like marshes and flats around Venice, Louisiana. Whether you're looking to bend a rod with monster redfish or outsmart some tasty flounder, this private trip is tailored for both newbies and seasoned anglers alike. It's just you, a buddy, and miles of fish-filled waterways waiting to be explored.
Venice isn't called the "Fishing Capital of the World" for nothing. This slice of Louisiana paradise is where the Mississippi River meets the Gulf, creating a perfect storm of nutrient-rich waters and diverse habitats. On this trip, we're talking about weaving through narrow bayous one minute and sight-casting to tailing reds in shallow ponds the next. Captain Jay knows these waters like the back of his hand, so you're in for a day of non-stop action and maybe even a few local fishing secrets (if you're lucky).
Get ready to finesse those casting skills because we'll be throwing everything from soft plastics to topwater lures. Depending on the conditions, you might find yourself quietly poling along grass lines, looking for those tell-tale signs of feeding fish. Or, if the bite is on, we could be drifting the flats and hooking up left and right. Captain Jay's got all the gear you need, from light tackle setups for finesse fishing to heavier stuff when the big boys come out to play. And don't worry if you're new to this – he'll have you casting like a pro in no time.
Ask any fisherman who's been to Venice, and they'll tell you – it's addictive. The sheer variety of fishing opportunities is mind-blowing. One minute you're sight-fishing for reds in gin-clear water, the next you're working a jig along the bottom for flounder. And let's not forget the scenery – gators sunning themselves on the bank, ospreys diving for bait, and sunsets that'll make you forget all about checking your phone. It's the kind of place where fish stories become legends, and every trip brings a new adventure.
Redfish: These copper-colored brutes are the rock stars of Venice's backcountry. Known for their powerful runs and stubborn fights, redfish (or red drum) can range from scrappy 5-pounders to bull reds topping 40 inches. They love to cruise the shallow flats, often revealing their location with their trademark tailing behavior. Spring and fall are prime time for reds, but honestly, you can tangle with these guys year-round in Venice. The 'thump' when a big red takes your lure is something you'll never forget.
Southern Flounder: Don't let their flat appearance fool you – these ambush predators are crafty and delicious. Flounder like to hang out on sandy or muddy bottoms, often burying themselves to surprise passing bait. They're masters of camouflage, which makes sight-fishing for them a real challenge (and a blast). Fall is the best time to target flounder as they migrate to deeper waters, but you can find them throughout the year. And if you're lucky enough to land one, you're in for some of the best fish tacos of your life.
Look, I could go on all day about the fishing in Venice, but nothing beats experiencing it firsthand. Captain Jay's trip is the real deal – intimate, customized, and focused on putting you on fish. Whether you're dreaming of that trophy red or just want to spend a day soaking up Louisiana's wild beauty, this is your chance. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait. Grab a buddy, book your date, and get ready for a day of fishing you'll be talking about for years to come. Trust me, once you fish Venice, everywhere else just feels like practice.
Redfish are a local favorite here in Venice. These copper-colored beauties typically run 20-30 inches, with some monsters pushing 40+. You'll find them tailing in shallow marshes and flats, often in just a foot or two of water. They love hanging around oyster beds and grass lines, especially during fall and spring. Redfish put up a great fight, and their distinctive spot near the tail makes for cool photos. Plus, they're delicious on the grill. What really gets folks excited is seeing them cruise in clear water – it's like hunting and fishing combined. If you want to land a big one, try using cut mullet on a Carolina rig near drop-offs where the flat meets deeper water. When you feel that telltale thump, hold on tight!
Southern Flounder are masters of camouflage, blending right into sandy or muddy bottoms. Most run 15-18 inches, but we've seen some push 30. They're ambush predators, so look for them around structure in bays and estuaries. Fall's the prime time as they move toward the Gulf to spawn. Flounder fishing's a bit different – you've got to feel for that soft bite. But man, are they worth it. Firm, white meat that's hard to beat. We usually drift fish for 'em, using live bait or artificial lures. Here's a local trick: when you feel a bite, don't set the hook right away. Give it a few seconds so the flounder can get the bait in its mouth good. Then, a smooth, steady pull usually does the trick. It's a fun challenge that even new anglers can get into.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 52
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300