Launching at the public boat ramp has always been free. Lake Pelba is nearby (within paddling distance)and has trees you can fish both on the south and north side of the lake. Take the Butte La Rose exit and the ramp is beneath I-10 interstate

1) The CLOSEST to the trees is when you cross over the levee at Pat's Restaurant, and there is an old boat launch there. You can drive to the left on the grassy area where there are a few houseboats and launch there. Follow the levee to the right and you will be in the cypress. But, this time of year, there's practically no water in the woods.

2) Also drive further north on the levee road from Pats and there are free launches in the Indian Bayou reserve. Check with rules regarding a permit and such for anything north of the interstate.