Baton Rouge is the capital of Louisiana. Here you can find Louisiana State University, home of the Tigers (and 2019 NCAA Football National Champions), and some of the most beautiful homes of history near the great Mississippi River. Families that visit Baton Rouge will discover a city rich in diversity and history. The Old Louisiana State Capitol shares the Pelican State’s history, from French explorers to African and American influences. There are also some antebellum houses to tour and explore part of our country’s history. As with most things related to Louisiana, the food and people are not to be missed. Local restaurants serve the most delicious meals your tongue has tasted, and the people are some of the nicest in the nation. Your Baton Rouge visit will not be complete without trying some genuine Louisiana fare. Of course the fishing in the area is not to be overlooked, either.

Baton Rouge Fishing the Mississippi River

Located directly on the Mississippi River, Baton Rouge charters can get you on the fish in no time at all. The Mississippi River is the longest river in the United States at 2,348 miles long. It starts in Minnesota and travels south to the Gulf of Mexico. Through the state of Louisiana the river flows near Baton Rouge, as well as New Orleans, located about 150 miles south. Those fishing the Mississippi River will not be disappointed in the catfish population. There are some 100 pound giant blue catfish swimming in these waters, as well as flathead and channel catfish as well. You’ll want to hire a local guide who is familiar with catching catfish in Baton Rouge, as the water levels and season have a lot to do with success rates. If you’re not familiar with the area, it’s better to go with someone who is. Other anglers will try fishing from the bank of the river. It’s inconsistent at best, time of day and season will certainly determine your chances. We recommend fishing along the bottom of the muddy river with a variety of bait and lures to see what works best; catfish are not usually very particular about their meals.

Fishing In Baton Rouge

The fun part about fishing in Baton Rouge may not necessarily be what you’re catching, but where you’re fishing. In the area lakes and ponds you’ll find a variety of catfish, largemouth bass, striped bass, white bass, yellow bass, bream, and crappie to name a few. Bait can vary from shad to plastics depending on what you want to catch. Light tackle is most commonly used here (except for those giant blue catfish, where anglers will use offshore gear to land those monsters). The real story is the several rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, and reservoirs in the area. Overall there are close to 2,000 bodies of water in and around Baton Rouge. Some are small ponds, others are giant rivers (looking at you, Mississippi), and everything in between. You can fish from a boat, pier, or the shore. All throughout the city are bodies of water waiting for your rod and reel. Two examples are the City-Brooks Community Park on Dalrymple Drive and Burbank Park on Burbank Drive. Both have lakes that are open to public fishing. No boats are allowed on either lake, and you will need a valid Louisiana state fishing license.

Book A Baton Rouge Fishing Charter

You will most certainly want to hire a local guide when fishing in Baton Rouge. There’s a lot of variety and opportunity, and having someone with local knowledge can only improve your chances for a successful day of fishing. Then you can go home with a full cooler and happy memories. Book your Baton Rouge fishing charter and let’s go fishing.