If you are looking to book an offshore fishing trip in the world-famous waters off Venice, Louisiana, you want to know what you can catch and when. As expert fishing charters in this prime location, we can tell you that the fishing is incredible year-round. However, the exact species that dominate the bite shift with the seasons. We are here to give you key insights into deep-sea fishing in Venice, Louisiana, whether this is your first time or your hundredth. Following our seasonal fishing guide can help you plan the perfect offshore adventure in the Gulf of Mexico.
What’s Biting Offshore in the Winter (December – February) in Venice, LA?
Booking a trip during the winter months means you are targeting some of the biggest, hardest-fighting fish the Gulf of Mexico has to offer. Offshore fishing in Venice, Louisiana, is synonymous with trophy-sized Yellowfin Tuna this time of year, with fish often exceeding 150 pounds and occasionally hitting the 200-pound class. These are found closer to shore than you might think, often congregating around structures like the famous Midnight Lump or deep-water oil rigs. The techniques used to land these giants often include chunking with bait and top-water lures. Other exciting species to target include:
- Wahoo: Winter is often the peak time for Wahoo fishing, which are known as the fastest fish in the Gulf. Trolling is a favored method for catching these sleek, striped predators.
- Swordfish: These elusive, high-value fish are a consistent, year-round target, but you will often dedicate time to deep-dropping for them in the winter months.
- Blackfin Tuna: Excellent fighters and great for the dinner table, these smaller tuna are abundant and a great addition to any winter catch.
- Amberjack: You can find these powerful “reef donkeys” around deep-water structures. Their season is usually open during this period, offering a challenging, muscle-testing fight.
Tip from the Crew: The weather can be less predictable in the winter, but the payoff is massive. When the conditions are right, the Yellowfin Tuna fishing is simply unmatched anywhere else in the world.
What Deep Sea Fish Are Active in the Spring (March – May)?
As the weather warms, fishing opportunities blossom in the offshore waters of Venice, Louisiana. Spring offers a transition period where you can still capitalize on the jumbo tuna while also seeing a greater variety of pelagic species moving in. The abundance of baitfish makes the tuna bite extremely productive, though the average size may start to trend a little smaller than in the depths of winter. You can expect to encounter:
- Yellowfin Tuna: They remain plentiful, especially in early spring. You may see large schools of 40 to 60-pound fish, which can be caught using techniques like free-lining live bait near rigs.
- Mahi-Mahi (Dolphin Fish): Showing up in good numbers, typically starting in May, the vibrant Mahi-Mahi are an exciting catch. They are often found near floating debris or weed lines.
- Wahoo: The bite stays strong into early spring, making it a great time for trophy seekers.
- Amberjack: Their spring season is one of the best times to find these strong fighters, often making their home on deep-water oil platforms and wrecks.
- Marlin: Both Blue Marlin and White Marlin start to show up as the water temperature increases, signaling the start of the billfish season.
What Fish Can Be Caught Offshore in the Summer (June – August)?
Summer in Venice, Louisiana, brings the most consistent weather and a spectacular mix of species. For many anglers, the highlight is the opening of the federal Red Snapper season, but the variety of hard-fighting pelagic fish ensures action on every trip. The use of live bait is a key technique for many species this time of year. The top catches during your summer deep-sea fishing trip include:
- Red Snapper: This highly prized species is abundant on deep-water reefs, wrecks, and the oil rigs that make the Gulf of Mexico an angler’s paradise. The season is usually short, so you must book your charter in advance.
- Mahi-Mahi: Summer is peak season for these acrobatic and colorful fish.
- Cobia: Often found near rigs and other structures, Cobia offer a powerful, thrilling fight.
- Grouper: Species like Gag Grouper and Black Grouper are active around offshore structures.
- Yellowfin Tuna: The tuna bite remains consistent throughout the summer, with many fish found near the deep-water platforms.
- Blue and White Marlin: Your chances of landing a billfish trophy are at their highest as they actively migrate through the warm Gulf waters.
What Fish is Best to Target in the Fall (September – November)?
Many seasoned anglers consider the fall to be the best time for offshore fishing in Venice, Louisiana. The water temperatures begin to cool, and the marine life begins to feed aggressively in preparation for winter. This season is marked by big numbers and big sizes, especially for the tuna. Prime targets when you go fishing in the fall include:
- Yellowfin Tuna: Fall is renowned for the return of trophy-class Yellowfin Tuna. These giants are active behind shrimp boats and around floaters in closer proximity, making for epic battles.
- Wahoo: Wahoo fishing starts to pick up again as the water cools, offering excellent opportunities for large, fast-running fish.
- Mangrove Snapper: While the Red Snapper season may be closed, the Mangrove Snapper bite is exceptional during the late summer and fall, providing a delicious alternative.
- Cobia: These are still readily available around the oil rigs and other deep-water structures.
- Swordfish: As with all times of year, the opportunity to target and land a powerful Swordfish is always present.
Start Your Venice, Louisiana Offshore Fishing Adventure
Ready to stop planning and start fishing? Whether you are looking for the challenge of a 200-pound Yellowfin Tuna or the excitement of catching a limit of Red Snapper, Go Long Charters is your expert partner. We are one of the most trusted fishing charters serving the Venice, Louisiana, and surrounding areas.
We differentiate ourselves with a prime location, a commitment to abundant marine life, customizable trips, and an experienced crew utilizing quality equipment. We offer the flexible options you need for your offshore fishing trip.
Call us now at (225) 252-5315 to book your seasonal fishing guide adventure with a crew that knows these waters better than anyone.