Fishing along the Mississippi coast and in the Louisiana marshes during October offers a fantastic variety of options due to cooler temperatures, active fish, and abundant bait. Here’s an overview of what you can expect, along with some popular fishing methods and target species:
1. Inshore Fishing
Target Species:
- Speckled Trout (Spotted Seatrout): October is peak season! Trout move into interior marshes and lakes following shrimp and baitfish.
- Redfish (Red Drum): Large “bull” reds are common around passes, while slot-sized reds prowl shallow marsh ponds and shorelines.
- Flounder: Flounder begin their fall migration and can be caught near passes, cuts, and marsh drains.
- Black Drum & Sheepshead: Found around structure and oyster reefs.
Methods:
- Live bait: Shrimp, croakers, and mullet under popping corks or Carolina rigs.
- Artificial lures: Soft plastics (paddle tails, shrimp imitations), topwater plugs early/late in the day.
- Fly fishing: Excellent in clear marsh ponds for redfish and trout.
2. Nearshore/Coastal Fishing
Target Species:
- Tripletail: Sometimes found around buoys and crab traps.
- Jack Crevalle, Spanish mackerel, and bluefish: May be encountered chasing bait near the beaches and passes.
Methods:
- Drift fishing or trolling with spoons, jigs, or live bait near passes, rigs, or beaches.
3. Offshore/Gulf Fishing (Weather Permitting)
Target Species:
- Red Snapper, Mangrove Snapper
- King Mackerel
- Cobia
- Amberjack (seasonal closures may apply)
Methods:
- Bottom fishing with cut bait or squid around rigs and reefs.
- Trolling for pelagic species.
4. Freshwater and Brackish Fishing (Marshes/Bayous)
Target Species:
- Bass, Catfish, Gar, Bluegill
- Found in upper marshes and bayous where salinity is lower.
Methods:
- Spinnerbaits, crankbaits, live worms, or shrimp.
Tips for October Fishing:
- Tides: Focus on moving water, especially outgoing tides that flush bait from the marsh.
- Weather: October offers cooler, less humid weather, but be watchful for early cold fronts and wind changes.
- Access: Both boat and kayak anglers do well; many launches are available along the coast.
- Regulations: Check Louisiana and Mississippi regulations for size/creel limits and seasonal closures.
Popular Launch Points/Areas:
- Venice, LA (Mississippi River Delta, “Redfish Capital”)
- Hopedale & Delacroix, LA (extensive marshes)
- Biloxi Marsh (accessible from both MS and LA sides)
- Pass Christian, Bay St. Louis, and Gulfport, MS
Summary:
October is one of the best months to fish the Mississippi coast and Louisiana marshes. Whether you prefer light tackle, fly fishing, or offshore adventures, you’ll find great action on a variety of species. Bring your camera—the scenery and wildlife are spectacular this time of year!