Venice or Barataria?
Venice vs. Barataria Redfishing
Two of Louisiana's best-known redfish areas, and how to choose between them.
Two of Louisiana's best-known redfish areas, and how to choose between them.
Choosing a Spot
Venice sits at the end of the road, where the Mississippi River meets the Gulf. It's famous for big bull redfish and as a jumping-off point for offshore trips. Barataria is closer to New Orleans, in a huge estuary of marsh, bayous and bays west of the river. Both hold plenty of redfish. We fish Barataria, so here's an honest look at how they compare.
Side by Side
| Barataria (Bya Slam) | Venice | |
|---|---|---|
| Drive from New Orleans | Less than an hour | About an hour and a half |
| Where you fish | Protected inshore marsh, bayous and bays | The river delta marsh and passes, with offshore fishing nearby |
| Main targets | Redfish and speckled trout | Redfish, especially bull reds, plus offshore species |
| Trip times | Morning and evening, every day | Varies by outfitter |
| Staying over | Local houses near the water, arranged on request | Fishing lodges and marinas |
You're staying in New Orleans and want a shorter drive. You want redfish and speckled trout in protected water. You'd like a morning or evening trip that fits around other plans, or a group trip on more than one boat.
You want to add an offshore day, or you're set on fishing the mouth of the river. Venice is built for that, and it's worth the extra drive. For redfish close to the city, Barataria is hard to beat.
Keepers
Redfish over 27 inches, the bull reds, go back in the water. Captain and crew can't keep redfish on a charter trip. Rules from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries as of October 2026; check the current rules before your trip. Anyone 18 or older needs a saltwater license: see Louisiana fishing licenses.