If you’re thinking about booking a trip with Whiskey Bayou Charters in Delacroix, LA, you might be wondering: When is the best time to fish in Louisiana? Should I go in spring or summer? Both seasons offer incredible fishing opportunities, but they bring different conditions, target species, and experiences. Whether you’re looking for steady action in the mild spring weather or high-energy fights during the heat of the summer, knowing what to expect can help you plan the perfect trip.
Let’s dive into the differences between spring and summer fishing in the Gulf, so you can decide which season is best for your next adventure.
Why Delacroix, LA is the Perfect Fishing Destination
Before we get into the seasonal differences, let’s talk about what makes Delacroix, LA such a legendary fishing spot. Nestled in St. Bernard Parish, Delacroix is a fisherman’s paradise, offering access to a vast network of marshes, bayous, lakes, and Gulf waters. This region is a prime habitat for some of the most sought-after inshore species, including redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and black drum.
Delacroix is unique because it provides both shallow, sheltered areas for calm-water fishing and access to deeper passes and the open Gulf, where larger gamefish roam. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner looking to hook your first redfish, Delacroix offers year-round opportunities for incredible fishing adventures.
Spring Fishing in the Gulf: The Reawakening of the Water
Spring in the Gulf of Mexico is a time of transition and renewal. As winter fades away, the water begins to warm, sparking life beneath the surface. Fish that have been relatively sluggish during the colder months start to move, feed aggressively, and prepare for the spawning season. This shift creates some of the most productive fishing conditions of the year, making spring an excellent time to be on the water.
The water temperatures in early spring can range from the upper 50s to mid-60s, gradually climbing as the weeks progress. With this warming trend, baitfish become more active, drawing in predators like redfish, speckled trout, and flounder to the shallows. This is a great time to target fish on flats, marsh edges, and near oyster beds, where they congregate to feed.
One of the major advantages of spring fishing is the mild weather. While occasional cold fronts can still roll through in March and early April, the overall trend is toward calmer conditions with cool mornings and pleasant afternoons. The wind can be a factor, especially in early spring, but as the season progresses, conditions stabilize, making for smooth and enjoyable fishing trips.
Anglers will find a variety of techniques effective during spring. Live shrimp and soft plastics are top choices for speckled trout and redfish, while crabs and cut bait can entice black drum and sheepshead. Because the fish are actively feeding, reaction baits like jerkbaits and topwater lures can also trigger exciting strikes, particularly on warm, calm days.
Overall, spring is a fantastic season for anglers who enjoy comfortable weather, active fish, and a mix of inshore species. If you’re looking for steady action with the potential for some trophy catches, spring fishing in Delacroix is hard to beat!
Summer Fishing in the Gulf: The Peak of Action
As the Gulf transitions into summer, the fishing shifts into higher gear. By the time June rolls around, the water is consistently warm – often reaching the mid-80s or even higher – which influences fish behavior significantly. While some species, like redfish and speckled trout, remain in the shallows, many fish move to deeper water or seek out areas with strong currents and plenty of baitfish to stay cool and well-fed.
One of the biggest differences between spring and summer fishing is the time of day that provides the best action. In spring, fish are often active throughout the day, but in summer, the early morning and late evening hours tend to be the most productive. The midday sun can be brutal, and as water temperatures soar, many fish retreat to deeper, cooler areas. However, the first few hours after sunrise can be nothing short of spectacular, with redfish tailing in the shallows, speckled trout hitting topwater lures, and tripletail hanging near floating debris.
The variety of species available in summer is one of the reasons so many anglers love this season. In addition to redfish, speckled trout, and flounder, summer brings opportunities for bigger, harder-fighting fish. Jack crevalle, tarpon, and even sharks make their presence known, especially in deeper waters and along passes where baitfish gather. If you’re looking for a thrilling fight, summer is the time to test your strength against some of the Gulf’s most powerful predators.
One of the challenges of summer fishing is the heat. Temperatures in Louisiana can climb well into the 90s, with high humidity making it feel even hotter. Staying hydrated and wearing lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Afternoon thunderstorms are also common, so planning your trip around the weather is important to ensure a safe and successful day on the water.
Bait selection in summer differs slightly from spring. While live shrimp and soft plastics still work well, croakers, pogies, and larger topwater baits become prime choices for targeting big speckled trout and redfish. When fishing deeper areas or targeting trophy-sized fish, cut bait and live mullet can be highly effective.
For anglers who love fast-paced action, the excitement of hooking into big fish, and the challenge of the summer heat, this season offers some of the best fishing opportunities of the year.
Comparing the Best Time to Fish in Louisiana: Spring & Summer Fishing in Delacroix
Weather and Water Conditions
One of the biggest differences between spring and summer fishing in Delacroix is the weather. Spring brings mild temperatures, with cool mornings and warm afternoons that make for a comfortable day on the water. Occasional cold fronts can still sweep through in early spring, but as the season progresses, conditions stabilize. This steady rise in temperatures signals fish to become more active, feeding heavily after a slower winter season. By late spring, water temperatures range from 60°F to 75°F, creating prime conditions for inshore species to move into the marshes, lakes, and shallows to feed.
Summer, on the other hand, is an entirely different experience. The heat and humidity become a major factor, with temperatures regularly climbing into the 90s, and the water temperature can push 80°F to 90°F or more in the shallows. The rising heat forces fish to adjust their behavior, often seeking deeper, cooler waters during the hottest part of the day. Summer also brings frequent afternoon thunderstorms, which can be unpredictable and occasionally cut trips short. While summer conditions require more preparation—hydration, sun protection, and planning around storms—the warm water also supercharges fish metabolism, leading to some of the most aggressive feeding and exciting fishing opportunities of the year.
Best Times of Day to Fish
Spring provides a more forgiving schedule for anglers, as fish tend to be active throughout the day. Since water temperatures are still in a comfortable range, redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and black drum will often be feeding from morning through the afternoon. This allows for flexible trip planning, making it easier for anglers to head out at a time that suits them without sacrificing too much action.
By summer, the heat significantly influences the best times to fish. Early morning and late evening become the prime windows for success, as fish move into shallower areas to feed before the sun heats up the water. During the middle of the day, many species retreat to deeper, cooler waters, making them harder to locate and less willing to bite. For those who prefer a more active experience, starting at sunrise is the way to go, while anglers looking to take advantage of the cooler evenings can find success just before sunset.
Target Species
Both spring and summer offer excellent opportunities to catch inshore favorites like redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and black drum, but summer opens the door to an even greater variety of species. During the warmer months, jack crevalle, tarpon, and sharks become more prominent, especially in the deeper passes and near schools of baitfish.
Spring fishing often feels more consistent because many species are transitioning out of their winter patterns and feeding aggressively. Redfish are commonly found tailing in shallow marshes, speckled trout move toward the bays and oyster reefs, and flounder begin their migration back into inshore waters. Sheepshead and black drum are also prevalent in the spring, particularly around structure.
Summer brings the opportunity for bigger and stronger fish, with larger redfish schooling in open water, trout hitting topwater baits in the early mornings, and even tarpon making an appearance in certain areas. Jack crevalle are known for their drag-screaming runs, while sharks patrol the warmer waters looking for an easy meal. If you’re looking for sheer variety and a chance to battle some of the hardest-fighting fish in the Gulf, summer is an unbeatable time to fish.
Fishing Techniques and Bait
In the spring, bait selection is relatively simple. Since fish are emerging from winter and looking for easy meals, live shrimp, soft plastics, and reaction baits like jerkbaits and topwater lures work extremely well. Many fish are still in transition from their deeper winter habitats, so targeting areas where they move—such as deep channels leading into the marsh—can be productive.
By summer, fish become more selective in their feeding habits, and bait choice becomes even more important. Live croakers, topwater plugs, and cut bait become go-to options for larger trout and redfish. Many anglers find success free-lining live bait to take advantage of the fish’s natural feeding instincts. Since water temperatures are at their highest, fish often position themselves near structures that provide shade or areas with strong tidal movement where oxygen levels are higher. This means anglers need to adjust their approach, using deeper presentations or fishing near docks, pilings, and drop-offs to stay on the bite.
Overall Experience
Both spring and summer fishing in Delacroix offer unforgettable experiences, but they cater to different styles of anglers. Spring is perfect for those who enjoy a laid-back fishing trip with pleasant weather, steady action, and a variety of species. The comfortable conditions and active fish make it a great season for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros.
Summer, however, is for those who thrive on high-energy fishing and don’t mind the heat. The potential for big fish, explosive topwater bites, and fast-paced action make it one of the most exciting times to be on the water. While anglers need to plan around the weather and time of day, the rewards are well worth the effort. Whether you’re chasing a trophy trout at sunrise or battling a bull redfish in the marsh, summer fishing in Delacroix offers some of the most intense and thrilling angling opportunities in the Gulf.
When Should You Go? Spring or Summer?
If you prefer mild weather, active fish, and consistent action throughout the day, spring is your best bet. However, if you love the thrill of chasing bigger fish, handling aggressive fights, and fishing in warm conditions, summer offers an unbeatable experience.
Regardless of when you choose to fish, Whiskey Bayou Charters will ensure you have an unforgettable trip. With expert guidance, local knowledge, and top-tier equipment, you’ll be in the best position to make the most of your time on the water.
Book Your Fishing Trip with Whiskey Bayou Charters Today!
Whether you decide on a spring adventure or a summer showdown, the waters of Delacroix, Louisiana, are calling. There’s no wrong time to fish in this world-class destination—only different experiences to enjoy.
With Whiskey Bayou Charters, you’ll get a personalized, action-packed trip led by Captain Joe Ezell, who knows these waters inside and out. No matter your skill level, you’re guaranteed an exciting day on the water.
Ready to book your trip? Contact Whiskey Bayou Charters today and get set for an unforgettable Louisiana fishing experience!
