Hey there, fellow anglers! This is Artificial Lure coming at you with the latest fishing report for this beautiful Monday morning, May 26, 2025, down here in Louisiana's Gulf waters.
Let me tell you, the spring fishing has been nothing short of spectacular so far, and it's only getting better as we head toward summer. Despite some less-than-perfect water conditions, the catches have been impressive across the board[2].
The trout bite has been steady through March, April, and now into May, making limit catches almost a daily routine for many boats. If you're after redfish, they're hitting the cleaning tables regularly too, though you might have to sort through some undersized ones. For those willing to venture a bit further out, those big bull reds are making quite a showing[4].
Big news for all you snapper enthusiasts - we're about 31% through Louisiana's annual recreational red snapper allocation as of the latest reports. The season's been open since April 15 with a daily limit of four fish per person (minimum 16-inch total length), and it's running seven days a week in both state and federal waters[3]. Remember, you need your Louisiana Basic and Saltwater Recreational Fishing Licenses plus that free Recreational Offshore Landing Permit to legally target these beauties.
For those looking to switch up locations, many captains have already started transitioning from Lake Pontchartrain to Lake Borgne. In a couple weeks, the outer bays and islands of the Biloxi Marsh will be prime territory for trout and those monster redfish[4].
Hot spots right now include Bussey Brake over in Morehouse Parish, where folks have been having good luck[1], and the scattered islands across the shallow bays of the "outside" where you can fish in peace without another boat in sight. While you're out there, keep your eyes peeled for sharks, dolphins, sea turtles, and all kinds of birds. You might even hook into some mackerel, triple tail, or pompano as a bonus[4].
For tackle, those circle hooks are mandatory when using natural baits for reef fish. And speaking of gear, make sure you've got your descending devices ready - they're required by federal regulations while fishing for reef fish in federal waters, and they help reduce barotrauma when releasing fish[3].
The sheepshead are starting to filter back into the area from their spawning grounds too, adding another target species to your list[4].
Y'all stay safe out there, remember your sunscreen, and tight lines to everybody! This is Artificial Lure signing off until next time. See you on the water!