The distance we travel on a deep-sea fishing trip from Venice, Louisiana, varies based on the season, the species we are targeting, and where the fish are currently feeding. Unlike many other coastal destinations where you must travel massive distances to reach deep water, Venice is located at the edge of the Mississippi River Delta, which puts us incredibly close to the continental shelf. On a typical day, we may travel anywhere from 15 to 70 miles offshore. Because there are no fences in the ocean, we go wherever the bite is strongest to ensure you have the best possible chance of landing a trophy. During the winter, we often find monster yellowfin tuna and wahoo much closer to the coast than in the summer, sometimes as near as 20 miles from the pass.
Why Does The Distance Change Throughout The Year?
The primary factor determining how far offshore we go is water temperature and the movement of bait. Yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and marlin are pelagic species, meaning they are constantly on the move in search of food and comfortable thermal conditions. In Venice, Louisiana, the unique outflow of the Mississippi River creates a dynamic environment where the “blue water” can push very close to the shoreline or retreat further out depending on the wind and river stages.
In the spring and summer, we might travel further out to reach “floater” rigs, which are massive semi-submersible oil platforms that sit in thousands of feet of water. These structures are often 50 to 70 miles out. However, in the late fall and winter, the cooling coastal water often traps large schools of bait closer to the delta. This brings the big yellowfin tuna into the “green water” or onto the shelf, allowing us to find world-class fishing without spending the entire day in transit.
What Are The Most Common Offshore Destinations Near Venice?
Venice is world-famous for its variety of offshore structures. We utilize a combination of natural underwater features and man-made oil and gas platforms to find fish. Each of these spots offers a different type of fishing experience depending on the depth and current.
- The Midnight Lump: Located roughly 50 miles from the coast, this underwater mountain is a legendary spot for winter tuna and wahoo.
- The Deep-Water Rigs: There are hundreds of oil platforms dotting the Gulf. Some “shelf rigs” are just 15 to 30 miles out, while the larger floaters can be much further.
- The Mississippi Canyon: This massive underwater canyon provides the deep, nutrient-rich water that attracts apex predators like swordfish and marlin.
- The South Pass Jetties: While technically nearshore, these structures are the gateway to the deep and often hold bait that draws in pelagic fish closer than usual.
- Floating Debris and Weed Lines: Sometimes the best “spot” isn’t a permanent structure at all, but a line of sargassum grass or a floating log 40 miles offshore.
How Long Does It Take To Get To The Fishing Grounds?
We know that you want to spend your time fishing, not just riding in a boat. Most of our offshore fishing trips out of Venice, Louisiana, involve a boat ride ranging from one to two hours to reach the initial fishing grounds. The exact time depends on the sea conditions and how far the fish have moved.
Our vessels are designed for speed and comfort, allowing us to cruise efficiently even when the Gulf is a bit choppy. We typically depart early in the morning, often between 5:30 AM and 6:30 AM, to ensure we are on the bite when the sun comes up. Because we are so close to the deep water, even a 15-mile run puts us in a completely different ecosystem than you would find anywhere else in the United States.
Does A Further Distance Always Mean Better Fishing?
A common misconception among anglers is that you have to go as far as possible to catch the biggest fish. In Venice, this is simply not true. Some of the largest yellowfin tuna ever caught in Louisiana were landed less than 20 miles from the mouth of the river.
The goal of our captains is to find the most productive water, not the furthest water. If the fish are holding on a rig 25 miles out, there is no reason to burn extra fuel and time going 70 miles. We use satellite imagery, weather reports, and real-time networking with other local captains to pinpoint exactly where the activity is happening. This strategy maximizes your actual fishing time and keeps the action consistent throughout the day.
In Venice, the “Tuna Capital of the World,” quality fishing is about finding the right water chemistry, not just the furthest coordinates.
How Far Do We Go For Specific Species Like Swordfish Or Marlin?
If you have your heart set on a specific species, the distance we travel may be more specific. Swordfish, for example, are usually found in very deep water, typically 1,200 to 1,800 feet deep. This almost always requires a run to the continental slope, which is generally 50 miles or more offshore.
Similarly, Blue Marlin prefer the deep blue water far away from the river’s silt and discharge. During the summer months, we may travel 60 to 80 miles to find the crystal-clear blue water where these “grander” marlin roam. However, for species like Red Snapper, Cobia, or King Mackerel, we often stay much closer to the coast, frequently fishing within 10 to 20 miles of the jetties.
What Should You Expect In Terms Of Boat Travel During Your Trip?
An offshore trip is an all-day adventure. You should expect a total trip time of about 9 to 10 hours from dock to dock. While we are traveling to the fishing grounds, you can relax in the cabin, prep your gear, or simply enjoy the sunrise over the Louisiana marsh.
- The Run Out: A steady cruise to our first targeted rig or temperature break.
- Rig Hopping: If the first spot isn’t producing, we don’t sit still. We may move 5 to 10 miles between different rigs to find the most active schools.
- Trolling: While we troll for wahoo or marlin, the boat is constantly moving, covering miles of productive water.
- The Run In: After a long day of catching, we head back to the marina, often cleaning fish along the way or sharing stories of the day’s biggest catches.
Our captains prioritize your safety and success, choosing the distance that balances the best fishing with the most comfortable ride.
Book Your Venice Offshore Experience
When you book with Go Long Charters, you are getting more than just a boat ride; you are getting a dedicated team committed to finding the fish. We combine our expertise and love for fishing with great customer service to provide our customers with the ultimate offshore fishing experience here in Venice, Louisiana! We know these waters intimately and understand how the fish move through the canyons and around the rigs throughout the year.
Whether the fish are 20 miles out or 70 miles out, we have the gear, the fuel, and the passion to take you there. Our focus is always on putting you in the heart of the action in Venice, Louisiana, and nearby areas.
Give us a call today at (225) 252-5315 to discuss your trip and find out where the bite is currently happening.