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World-Class Family Fishing in St. Bernard, LA
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- St Bernard
- $750 - $1,200 price range
- Updated Date: September 19, 2025
Summary
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Bayou Fishing Action
Family Fishing Fun in St. Bernard's Backwaters
Get ready for a full day of fishing, laughs, and memories on the calm waters of St. Bernard, Louisiana. Captain James Hanson knows these marshes like the back of his hand, and he's itching to show your family the best spots for hauling in some impressive catches. Whether you're teaching the kids to cast or looking to land that trophy redfish, this 8-hour trip is tailor-made for groups up to four who want to experience the rich fishing grounds of coastal Louisiana.
What to Expect on the Water
Captain James runs a laid-back but fish-focused operation. You'll spend the day cruising through a maze of bayous and marshes, stopping at honey holes where the fish are biting. The waters here are typically calm, making it perfect for anglers of all skill levels. Expect hands-on guidance if you need it, or the freedom to work your own magic if you're experienced. The boat's well-equipped, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe some snacks). With four species on the hit list, there's always action on the line.
Fishing Know-How & Gear
On this trip, you'll likely be using a mix of live bait and artificial lures. Captain James is a pro at reading the water and adjusting tactics based on what the fish are biting. You might find yourself sight-casting to tailing redfish in shallow water, or dropping lines near structure for big black drum. The gear is all top-notch and provided for you – we're talking light to medium action rods paired with quality reels that can handle whatever decides to bite. Don't worry if you're new to this; the captain's got patience in spades and loves showing folks the ropes.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the stars of the show in St. Bernard. They love to hang out in shallow water, often giving themselves away with their tails sticking out of the water as they root for food. Redfish put up a great fight and are delicious on the dinner table. They're around all year, but fall is prime time when they school up in big numbers.
Speckled Trout: Also known as spotted seatrout, these guys are a blast to catch and a local favorite. They're quick strikers and love to hit topwater lures, making for some exciting visual action. Spring and fall are peak seasons, but you can catch them year-round if you know where to look. Captain James sure does.
Black Drum: The bulldogs of the bayou, black drum can grow to massive sizes. They're not the prettiest fish in the sea, but what they lack in looks they make up for in fight. You'll often find them near oyster reefs or other structure. The smaller ones (under 15 pounds) are great eating, while the big ones make for an epic photo op before release.
Sheepshead: Don't let their goofy teeth fool you – sheepshead are clever fish and notoriously tricky to hook. They love to hang around pilings and other structures, nibbling barnacles with those chompers. When you do hook one, they put up a scrappy fight. Winter and early spring are prime sheepshead seasons in these parts.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Folks who fish with Captain James tend to become repeat customers, and it's easy to see why. The mix of productive fishing grounds, diverse catch potential, and the captain's easy-going nature makes for a day on the water that's hard to beat. Kids love the constant action and the thrill of reeling in their own catches. Adults appreciate the chance to unwind in nature while still having a shot at some serious fish. Plus, the scenery out here is something else – you might spot gators, birds, and all sorts of critters in between casts.
Time to Book Your Spot
If you're looking for a family-friendly fishing adventure that delivers on both fun and fish, this St. Bernard trip is your ticket. Captain James has the local knowledge to put you on the fish, the patience to make sure everyone has a good time, and the skills to help you land that catch of a lifetime. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, you're in for a treat. The coastal waters of Louisiana are calling, and the fish are waiting. Don't miss out on this chance to create some lasting memories – book your trip with Backwoods Bay Fishing Charters today. The only thing you'll regret is not doing it sooner!
Learn more about the species
Black Drum
Black Drum are hefty fighters, usually weighing 5-30 pounds but can hit 90. Look for them in brackish waters, especially around oyster beds and muddy flats. They're bottom-feeders, so use fresh crab or clams on a weighted rig. Spring's your best bet when they school up to spawn. Anglers love 'em for the challenge - they've got strong jaws that can crush shells, so set the hook hard. One local trick: listen for their distinctive drumming sound. It's loudest during spawning season and can give away their location. Just remember, for eating, stick to the smaller ones under 15 pounds. The big boys can be tough and not as tasty. Black Drum put up a good fight and make for some fun fishing, especially if you're after something different from the usual catches.
Redfish
Redfish, or Red Drum, are a blast to catch. They love shallow water, often in just 1-4 feet. Look for them around oyster reefs, coves, and seagrass. These fish can grow big - mature ones average 28-33 inches, but can reach 45 inches and 50 pounds. Spring and fall are prime times, when they're most active in the shallows. Anglers love 'em for their strong fight and tasty, mild meat. That signature black spot near the tail? It's not just for looks - it fools predators into attacking the wrong end. Here's a local tip: on calm days, scan the shallows for their exposed backs or tails breaking the surface. For bait, live shrimp or crabs are hard to beat, but they'll hit artificial lures too. Topwater lures in shallow water can lead to some exciting strikes.
Sea Trout
Sea Trout, also known as Speckled Trout, are a favorite around here. They usually run 14-24 inches and put up a good fight. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. During winter, they school up in deeper waters, sometimes down to 164 feet. These fish are great for both novice and experienced anglers. They're aggressive feeders, so artificial lures like jerk baits and topwater plugs work well. Folks love catching them for their sporty nature and tasty, mild flesh. Best time to fish is during their spawning season in fall and winter. Here's a tip: try trolling at idle speed along grass flats if you're having trouble locating them. Sea Trout are good eating too, just be careful not to overcook the delicate meat. It's a real crowd-pleaser on family fishing trips.
Sheepshead
Sheepshead, or convict fish, are a real treat to catch. They typically run 1-8 pounds and hang around structures like docks, bridges, and reefs. Look for barnacle-covered pilings - that's prime sheepshead territory. These guys are notorious bait stealers with their human-like teeth, so you've got to be quick on the hook set. Best time to target them is early spring when they school up to spawn. Folks love fishing for sheepshead because of the challenge and their excellent table fare. The white, sweet meat is delicious. Here's a local tip: use fiddler crabs or small pieces of shrimp, and fish as close to the structure as you can without snagging. Patience is key with these striped tricksters, but the reward is worth it.
About the Backwoods Bay Fishing Charters
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki 4 stroke
Maximum Cruising Speed: 17
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250
