Venice: The Fishing Capital of the World

Many Gulf Coast cities are known for specific types of fishing. Anglers flock to Boca Grande, Florida each year to fish for tarpon while Gulf Shores, Alabama is popular for king mackerel, grouper and amberjack, among others. But it’s Venice, Louisiana that tops many wish lists for anglers.

On the southeastern tip of Louisiana, about an hour south of New Orleans, Venice welcomes anglers of all skill levels as they look for the thrill of the big catch. Since the city is located where the Mississippi River flows into the Gulf of Mexico, a variety of fishing charter options are available.

This bucket list destination is known as “tuna town” and the redfish capital of the world, making it an ideal location for a fishing trip all year-round. Whether you’re planning an open-water adventure for Dad this Father’s Day, or you’re looking for the perfect destination for a guy’s getaway, Venice has a fishing experience for everyone.

Specifically targeted out of Venice, yellowfin tuna provide a challenge to even the most experienced fisherman, as they are fast swimmers that are often seen darting through the water. These fish can be seen on and just below the surface of the water and are often caught while traveling in large schools. Fishing boat captains like Captain Jeff Schneider of Louisiana Tuna Charters, use a variety of fishing strategies including chumming, top-water fishing, live baiting and kite fishing.

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When it comes to tuna, the summertime average is 50-60 pounds, although Schneider says he still sees fish over 100 pounds hitting the cleaning table on a regular basis. Anglers who visit Venice in the fall and winter months will see fish tipping the scales at around 100 pounds on average, and, surprisingly, fish over 200 pounds are not uncommon.

Like with other species, anglers who are targeting or in possession of tuna must follow a set of guidelines when they’re out on the water. First, the vessel they are fishing from must have a highly migratory species permit. Schneider and his team at Louisiana Tuna Charters ensure all necessary permits for tuna and other species are in their possession prior to a charter. Also, each angler is allowed to keep three yellowfin tuna at a minimum size of 27 inches, which is measured curved to the fork.

Schneider says that the summer months also offer opportunities for fishing a variety of pelagic species. Yellowfin and blackfin tuna are plentiful as are blue and white marlin, mahi mahi and wahoo. During his charters, he will even stop along the reef to catch red snapper if time allows.

“This is a summertime mixed bag out of the world-famous Venice Marine,” Schneider says.

No matter what type of fishing adventure you’re after, charter captains like Schneider are sure to find it for you.

Learn more at LouisianaTunaCharters.com