When you think of fishing in Southern Louisiana, you might picture the excitement of reeling in a massive redfish. With The Southern Fly, based in the vibrant city of New Orleans, you can embark on an unforgettable fishing adventure. Whether you're a novice or an experienced angler, you'll find the perfect trip tailored just for you. Imagine the thrill of casting your line in the marshes of South Louisiana, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Our charters offer an exciting opportunity to catch species like redfish, black drum, and sheepshead.
Had a great time fishing with Capt Dave. Conditions were less than perfect yet he worked endlessly to get us in to fish....and he succeeded! It wasnt easy finding them but he never quit and by the end of the day we had had plenty of action with multiple species. Now if only we could fish as well as he can guide! We will see you again Im sure!
TW
T W
Nov 3, 2023
5.0
David is awesome good fisherman. works hard. Good eyes for fish. Great conversation great guy
MS
Mark Souza
Aug 23, 2023
5.0
This is the second time I have fly fished with Captain Dave Best. The first time was in November a few years ago and it was a bonanza of redfish. This time it was in the swelter of mid-August when fish were scarce, and conditions extremely rough. That is when you learn the most about a guide. How hard will they press to find fish? How far will they run? Captain Dave went the extra mile each day, and he did put me on fish. And he's a great guy to fish with to boot.
What's the best time of year for tarpon fishing in New Orleans?
Tarpon are available year-round in South Louisiana waters, but peak season runs from late spring through early fall when they migrate through the marshes and coastal areas. At The Southern Fly, we target tarpon on both fly and light tackle depending on conditions and angler skill level.
How does sight fishing on the flats actually work?
Sight fishing involves quietly poling or drifting over shallow, clear flats while visually spotting fish like bonefish, permit, and tarpon before casting. You'll need to present lightweight flies or lures accurately to visible targets, making it one of the most exciting and challenging fishing methods.
What's the difference between inshore and flats fishing?
Inshore fishing covers calm bays, marshes, and coastal waters targeting redfish, snook, and trout with light tackle in varying depths. Flats fishing is a specialized shallow-water technique done in clear water over sandy or grassy flats, focusing on sight-casting to bonefish, permit, and tarpon using lightweight rods.
Can beginners fly fish or is it too hard?
Beginners can absolutely fly fish with proper instruction and guidance. At The Southern Fly, we provide expert coaching on fly casting techniques and catch-and-release practices, tailoring each trip to your skill level so you can learn while enjoying productive fishing time.
What species can you target on a fly fishing charter?
South Louisiana fly fishing charters commonly target tarpon, redfish, snook, and bonefish depending on location and season. Each species offers unique challenges and requires different fly patterns and techniques, making the region ideal for diverse saltwater fly fishing experiences.
How long should I book for my first guided fishing trip?
Half-day trips work well for beginners or families to get a feel for the experience without fatigue. Full-day charters offer more opportunities to explore different areas, target multiple species, and maximize your time on the water with expert instruction throughout.
Is all fishing equipment provided on the charter?
Yes, all equipment, bait, tackle, and professional guide services are included on The Southern Fly charters. You simply need to bring personal items like sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, appropriate clothing, and a fishing license for Louisiana waters.
Why is catch-and-release important in fly fishing?
Catch-and-release practices help maintain healthy fish populations, especially for prized species like tarpon, permit, and bonefish that are more valuable as sport fish. At The Southern Fly, we emphasize proper handling techniques to ensure fish survival while still providing memorable angling experiences.
What makes Louisiana salt marshes good for fishing?
South Louisiana's coastal marshes create a vast nursery habitat with shallow waters, abundant baitfish, and year-round access to multiple inshore species. The mix of fresh and saltwater, combined with protected areas and varied structure, supports redfish, snook, trout, and seasonal tarpon populations.
Can you combine fishing with wildlife watching?
Absolutely. The Southern Fly offers nature observation experiences alongside fishing trips to explore Southern Louisiana's vibrant coastal scenery and wildlife. You'll encounter dolphins, herons, pelicans, and other species while fishing the marshes and flats around New Orleans and Venice.
What's poling and why is it used on flats?
Poling involves standing on a platform and quietly pushing the boat through shallow water using a long pole instead of a motor. This silent approach prevents spooking fish in clear, shallow flats and allows anglers to get within casting range of bonefish, permit, and tarpon.
Are the fishing charters suitable for families with kids?
Yes, inshore fishing charters are family-friendly experiences in calm waters with light tackle setups that work well for children and beginners. At The Southern Fly, we customize trips to accommodate all ages and skill levels, ensuring everyone has an enjoyable and safe time on the water.
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