As of November 22, 2024, the fishing scene in the Gulf of Mexico, Louisiana, is quite dynamic despite the recent challenging weather conditions.
### Tidal Report
Today, the tides are moderate, with a high tide at around 9:30 AM and a low tide at about 3:30 PM. These tides should provide good conditions for both inshore and offshore fishing.
### Weather
The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with a gentle breeze, making it a comfortable day on the water. However, there is a slight chance of scattered showers, so it's a good idea to keep an eye on the forecast.
### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise is at 6:34 AM, and sunset will be at 4:53 PM, giving anglers a full day to take advantage of the best fishing times.
### Fish Activity
Yesterday saw a lot of activity from various species. Red snapper, although their federal season technically closed on August 28, are still being caught in state waters where the season remains open year-round in some areas. However, for those fishing in federal waters, the season has closed until next year. Anglers reported catching a good number of red snapper, particularly in the Boothville-Venice area.
Bull reds and speckled trout were also very active, with many anglers reporting successful catches in the marshes and lakes of the Biloxi Marsh and around Hopedale. The trout were particularly responsive to live bait and soft plastics.
### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
- Red Snapper: Several anglers reported catching their limits of red snapper in state waters, with sizes ranging from 15 to 20 inches.
- Bull Reds: These were abundant in the marsh areas, with some anglers catching up to 6-8 fish per trip.
- Speckled Trout: Trout were plentiful, especially in the early morning hours, with anglers using live bait and soft plastics to catch them.
### Best Lures and Bait
For red snapper, natural baits like shrimp and mullet worked well, and it's mandatory to use non-stainless steel non-offset circle hooks when using natural baits. For trout, live bait such as minnows and shrimp, as well as soft plastics like curly tail grubs, were highly effective.
### Hot Spots
- **Boothville-Venice**: This area has been producing a lot of red snapper and bull reds.
- **Biloxi Marsh**: The lakes and ponds here are great for catching speckled trout and bull reds.
- **Hopedale**: Known for its rich fishing grounds, Hopedale has been a hotspot for both trout and redfish.
Remember to always check the local regulations and ensure you have the necessary licenses and permits before heading out. The use of a dehooking device and a venting tool or descending device is also required when fishing for reef fish in federal waters. Enjoy your day on the water