Grand Isle is a must-fish south Louisiana hotspot for the inshore bite in June. Redfish can be caught in the marshes, and speckled trout can be found schooling within casting distance of the beaches.
According to Daryl Carpenter, owner and captain of Reel Screamers Guide Service, “The water is clearing up, and the wind is dying down. The speckled trout have already started to move out front, concentrated more towards the coast, the points and islands, and on oyster beds, while the redfish haven’t moved to the coast, yet.”
The abundance of fish and prime fishing locations along Grand Isle provides ample opportunities for boat fishermen, kayakers and land-based anglers alike. Depending on what the angler is targeting, there are different techniques and tips to keep in mind to ensure your trip is successful.
Redfish techniques
“As of right now, the redfish are way up in the marsh,” Carpenter said. “They haven’t made their move south towards the coast, so if you are looking for a limit, stay in the marsh. Everything in between King’s Ridge and Little Lake are the hotspots.”
Look for washouts around grassy points and/or bait movement. Also, keep in mind that shrimp do not jump out of the water for no reason.
Redfish can also be located tailing in the shallower water of the narrow canals around marshes where kayak anglers can easily reach them. Targeting redfish this way will take minimal paddle/peddle movement.
Vudu Shrimp, Matrix Shad, spoons and Deadly Dudleys (color dependent on water clarity) are great options for artificial lures. Carolina rigs with live bait will work fine, as well.
Speckled trout techniques
“When it comes to speckled trout, look for the breaks in the sandbars along the beach,” Carpenter said. “The majority will be schooling anywhere along the coast, from Timberlier Island to Four Bayou Pass. On the days you can’t get out front, your best bet is to go to the platforms and the oyster reefs.”
“Currently, the speckled trout are biting on live shrimp. When June comes around, cast-netting live pogies and croakers is a go-to choice for fishing along the beach.”
Land-based anglers have the unique opportunity to surf-fish for quality speckled trout in June. If Elmer’s Island is open, that’s a good option. Public beaches along Grand Isle are good spots, too. Look for evidence of bait and/or diving birds to indicate where the school is. The trout will not stay in one spot, however, so the angler will need to be on the move.
On calm days with a foot or less seas, kayak anglers can drift with the current, following moving baitfish and schooling trout along the beaches. But conditions will need to be just right.
Parting advice
“Bring patience with you, because there are people everywhere right now.” Carpenter said. “People are trying to avoid what’s going on, and they are doing so at Grand Isle.”
Check the wind and marine forecast before planning your trip, if you are fishing from a boat or kayak. Wind over 10 to 12 mph will make fishing in June relatively tough in open water. Anglers will need to focus their efforts within the marsh or other sheltered locations.
If you are a beginner, it may be a good idea to go on a guided trip first. The guide services and charters are still running and perfect for a family get-away.
