Wintertime Reds in Buras, LA
Over the past few months, anglers of all skill levels have flocked to “The End of the World,” also known as Venice, Louisiana, in search of trout, redfish, flounder, and other inshore species. For those unfamiliar, Venice is a small town located approximately 70 miles south of New Orleans. However, many overlook some of the best fishing opportunities just 15 miles north of Venice, in the often-underrated town of Buras, Louisiana.
While Venice may be more renowned, Buras is a hidden gem offering equally incredible chances for unforgettable catches. Nestled along the mighty Mississippi River, Buras has nutrient-rich waters on both the east and west sides of the river. These waters are abundant with life, surrounded by vast stretches of marshlands and secluded bays that provide the perfect backdrop for a productive fishing experience. This environment creates an ideal habitat for redfish, particularly during the cooler months when they move into shallow waters in search of food such as small crabs, shrimp, and baitfish.
In the fall and winter months, Buras is a haven for all inshore species, but it truly shines as a redfish hotspot. As water clarity improves during this season, anglers are treated to the sight of redfish schools cruising along marsh edges and patrolling shallow flats. For those seeking an added thrill, sight fishing offers a rewarding challenge, combining sighting the target and putting their casting abilities with the ultimate precision test.
When targeting these reds, make sure you’re equipped with the right setup—these larger redfish (bulls) are known to put up a serious fight and will take you for a ride if you’re not prepared. Personally, I prefer a medium-light rod paired with 30lb braided line and a 25lb fluorocarbon leader for added strength and abrasion resistance. This setup provides the perfect balance of sensitivity and power to handle the aggressive runs and thrashing of a big redfish.
Now for the universal question: live bait or artificial? The choice depends on the angler’s skill level, experience, and personal preference. Experienced anglers often like the challenge of using artificials, such as soft plastics, spoons, or topwater lures, to see what works best. Beginners, however, usually stick with live bait since it’s easier and more forgiving to use while they’re becoming more familiar with targeting these fish.
As a guide, I always recommend live bait as a solid choice for anyone. It’s natural, easy to use, and very tempting to hungry reds. No matter which you choose, both options can work great, and learning how to use both can make you a better fisherman in the long run.
When choosing the perfect artificial lure, I like to be prepared with options for both overcast and clear-sky conditions. During low-light or overcast conditions, darker colors such as dark gray, green, or black tend to perform best, as they create a silhouette against the water. On clear, sunny days, you can’t go wrong with brighter or more natural colors, purple, or chartreuse.
In all, whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, the Buras area offers plenty of opportunities to land your prized catch. This winter, don't miss out on the opportunity to experience what this hidden gem has to offer.
Capt Tori Arnona
Inshore Fishing Guide
