For a fully immersive angling experience, it’s hard to top a Chandeleur Islands fishing trip. This chain of uninhabited barrier islands forms the border between the Gulf of Mexico and the Chandeleur Sound, and has been held in near-mythical status by visitors for over 2,000 years. Everyone can agree there’s something special about coming here.
But the Chandeleur Islands are changing. Once home to a thriving fishing settlement, the islands sit barren today. Constant erosion and storm surges have taken their toll, and the landmass is slowly starting to disappear. Still, the islands remain an important migrating point for birds heading south and are home to a whole host of fish.
Fishing the Chandeleur Islands is about quality, not quantity. There aren’t hundreds of different species on offer, but the ones that do inhabit these waters are more than worth visiting for. You’ll get to hook into saltwater favorites in an environment like none other, and go home with some tasty table fare to match.
Best Fish to Catch in the Chandeleur Islands
The islands stretch across 50 miles of water that house a variety of habitats. You’ll find everything from protected grassy flats to sand bars, mud flats, mangroves, coves, and inlets. What these all have in common is the fact that they’re shallow-water fishing havens. Keep reading to find out about the top species you can hook in the Chandeleur Islands.
Speckled Trout
Speckled Trout are the number one fish anglers head to the Chandeleur Islands to hook. You’ll find these schooling species in the shallow grassy flats and in the inlets that form between the islands. You may also find some in calm troughs on the eastern, Gulf-facing sides.
The fish don’t get too big in the Chandeleurs, but there’s plenty of them to make up for that. Expect to max out on 3–6 lb Trout with ease. Artificial lures and topwater baits are tried and true favorites for hooking these fish and are very effective in this environment.
Redfish
Coming in at a close second in this popularity contest are Redfish. These saltwater favorites come in all shapes and sizes and can be hooked year-round in the grass flats surrounding the Chandeleurs. If you’re after a slot or trophy Bull Redfish, however, plan your trip in the spring and fall.
Since you’ll primarily be drifting over the grass beds, soft plastics rigged on jigheads are a good choice. Alternatively, you can get in on some topwater action or try fly fishing if you’re up for a challenge. To increase your chances of hooking fish, follow the tides. Moving tide will create a visible line in the water and is key for catching fish. If you spot birds hovering above in search of bait, there’s a good chance your targets are nearby.
Flounder
While these Flatfish won’t be your primary target if you’re looking for rod-bending action, we’ve never heard anyone complain about catching a few Flounder. They tend to inhabit the same waters as Speckled Trout and Redfish do, so heading to the shallow flats in the Chandeleurs can see you go home with some delicious Flounder for dinner, too.
Look for the incoming tide and drag a minnow or finger mullet slowly across the bottom to hook big fish. If you want to try out something new, give Flounder gigging a shot. The Chandeleurs, and particularly the waters around Breton Island, are a great spot to give this technique a try. Gigging works best when the waters are very calm and anglers usually head out in low light. Be sure to bring lights or enlist the help of an experienced guide.
Jack Crevalle
While the fish we’ve discussed thus far make for great table fare, there are a few gear-busting fish in the Chandeleurs to keep your eye on. Jack Crevalle in the 15–20-pound range roam the same shallow flats as the above mentioned fish, searching for bait.
They may not be tasty, but they do put up a great fight. Jacks respond well to both artificial lures, topwater baits, and live bait, so you won’t be needing to change up your gear. Just make sure to cast slow – these fish love the chase.
And There’s More!
Like we said earlier, a Chandeleur Islands fishing trip isn’t necessarily about variety. The quality of fishing for a few notable species is the main draw. Nevertheless, there are a few migratory fish that do swim by. These include Tarpon, Cobia, and Spanish Mackerel. You’ll also find a variety of inshore Sharks here throughout most of the year.
And while there aren’t waters deep enough to hold the likes of Snapper and Tuna, you will be in fairly close proximity to Louisiana’s fabled offshore waters. Yellowfin Tuna sometimes come up within 5 miles of the shoreline, so if you set your sights a little further out you might get lucky.
How to Go Fishing in the Chandeleur Islands
Fishing the Chandeleur Islands isn’t your typical experience. They house no infrastructure, meaning things like pier fishing or spending the night are off the table. They’re also remote, so getting to the Chandeleurs requires some planning – more on that later. For now, we’ve highlighted a few ways to explore the waters once you get there.
Charter Boat Fishing
Hopping aboard a Chandeleur Islands fishing charter crosses two things off your list. First, it’s likely the way you’ll arrive here. Second, it gives you the freedom to explore different areas in the chain of barrier islands, and switch spots quickly in search of moving bait.
You’ll also have a knowledgeable, local captain at the helm. Given the remoteness of the islands and their ever-changing nature, this is a big plus for anglers who aren’t familiar with the area. Your captain will also take care of your gear and help make sure you’re respecting the rules and regulations related to fishing in protected areas.
Shore Fishing
Many visitors to the Chandeleur Islands describe them as a symbol of strength in dangerous seas. They’re a safe place to land after traveling miles and miles through open waters. The islands themselves range in length and width, but most are composed of beautiful stretches of sand and shells.
For years, anglers have been heading to the east side of the islands to cast into the surf. Not only will you have a shot at the countless Speckled Trout, Flounder, and Redfish, but you’ll also experience peace and quiet like never before. There’s a good chance you’ll be the only angler there!
Wade Fishing
Wade fishing in the Chandeleur Islands is almost as popular as charter boat fishing. Because the waters are so shallow and difficult to access in certain parts, wade fishers have the advantage of maneuvering areas boats cannot.
You can find Redfish and Speckled Trout in knee-deep waters, meaning you won’t have to wander too far from the shore. The cuts and bayous found in the main island, as well as in the New Harbor Islands, also consist of grassy flats and coves perfect for wade anglers. For the best action, head down between June and September.
Chandeleur Islands Fishing Spots
Fishing the Chandeleur Islands isn’t always easy, but that’s part of the fun. This landmass is constantly changing, so your favorite fishing spot may no longer be around the next time you visit. Below, we’ve listed a few that are available to fish today, though we can’t guarantee they’ll be here tomorrow.
- Chandeleur Sound: Fishing in the sound is accessible to anglers visiting from both Mississippi and Louisiana. The calm waters are stocked with Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, Jack Crevalle, and seasonal visitors like Tarpon and Cobia.
- Redfish Point: A popular spot among charter boat and surf anglers alike. Located at the tip of the main island, it’s a great spot to topwater cast for Redfish. You could also hook into Flounder, Sheepshead, and Black Drum.
- Freemason Island: There’s a steep drop off at Freemason, where shallow waters quickly meet the deep. Cast spoons or topwater baits here and you’re very likely to have a Redfish at the end of your line.
- Breton Island: Speckled Trout season starts in the late spring and hits its peak in the summer. To max out on your limits, head to Breton Island. This is a popular spot with both wade fishermen and charter boat anglers. Pro tip: the topwater bite is best early in the morning!
Getting There
The Chandeleur Islands are located about 45 miles from Venice, Louisiana and 20–30 miles from Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula in Mississippi. Where you decide to launch from will depend in part on the areas you’d like to explore. Anglers hoping to check out Breton Island should head out from Venice, whereas Mississippi’s port towns are the logical launching point for those heading to the northern islands.
There’s no regular transportation to and from the Chandeleur Islands. Chartering a boat or heading out on your own is the only way to get there by means of water. Alternatively, you can hire a seaplane. The flight takes about 30 minutes and you’ll get to take in some spectacular views. Lodging accommodations are also popular among visiting anglers. These usually include a few days of fishing, transport, and meals.
Chandeleur Islands Fishing Regulations
Since the Chandeleur Islands fall under Louisiana’s jurisdiction, you’ll follow their state rules. That means that all anglers over the age of 16 need to purchase a basic Louisiana fishing license, as well as a saltwater fishing license if you’re fishing south of the saltwater line. You can find out more about specific licenses and where to get one in our extensive guide.
What’s more, the Chandeleurs are a part of the Breton National Wildlife Refuge. Camping on the islands is forbidden due to massive land erosion post-Hurricane Katrina and the potential impacts on nesting birds. It’s also important to note that there are no facilities and no shade. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection.
Chandeleur Islands: Visit While You Can
Scientists agree that the Chandeleur Islands won’t be around for much longer. While we certainly hope they’re wrong, one thing is for certain – get here while you can. There’s a reason the Chandeleurs are so sacred to anglers, and it’s not just the fishing. There’s a special energy here you have to see to believe.
If you want to learn more about fishing in Louisiana, read our full guide.
Did you feel that special energy on your Chandeleur Islands fishing trip? Let us know – we love to hear from you!
