Early winter fishing along the Mississippi and Louisiana coast can be highly productive, as the cooling water temperatures change fish behavior and movement. Here’s an overview of what to expect, what to target, and helpful tips:
What Species to Target
1. Speckled Trout (Spotted Seatrout):
- Behavior: Move into deeper bayous, marshes, and channels as shallow waters cool.
- Best Baits: Soft plastics, live shrimp, and suspending twitch baits.
2. Redfish (Red Drum):
- Behavior: Remain active; often found in shallow marshes, ponds, and along shorelines.
- Best Baits: Gold spoons, soft plastics, live or cut mullet/crab.
3. Flounder:
- Behavior: Begin to move offshore to spawn but can be found near passes and channels.
- Best Baits: Soft plastics, live minnows, or finger mullet.
4. Sheepshead:
- Behavior: Start congregating around structure (bridges, pilings, oyster reefs).
- Best Baits: Live shrimp, fiddler crabs.
5. Black Drum:
- Behavior: Found near deeper holes and structure.
- Best Baits: Crabs, shrimp, cut bait.
Prime Locations
- Mississippi Coast:
- Biloxi Marsh, Bay St. Louis, Mississippi Sound, Pascagoula River.
- Louisiana Coast:
- Delacroix, Hopedale, Venice, Grand Isle, Barataria Bay, Lake Pontchartrain.
Fishing Tips for Early Winter Fishing
- Follow the Water Temperature:
Fish seek comfortable temperatures. On cold mornings, look for deeper holes or channels. On sunny afternoons, fish may move to shallower flats to warm up. - Tides Are Crucial:
Strong moving tides concentrate bait and predators, especially near passes, cuts, and drains. - Adjust Your Presentation:
Fish can get sluggish in colder water. Slow down your retrieves and use lighter tackle for a more natural presentation. - Dress for the Weather:
Coastal weather can change quickly. Dress in layers and be prepared for wind and rain. - Watch for Birds and Bait:
Diving birds often indicate feeding fish, especially speckled trout and redfish.
Regulations & Conservation
Check current regulations for size and bag limits. They can change year to year, especially for speckled trout and redfish.
Summary:
Early winter is a great time for inshore fishing along the Mississippi and Louisiana coasts. Focus on deeper, protected areas and adjust tactics for cooler water. You’ll find a variety of game fish—just remember to check local regulations and dress warm!