Fish in Lake Pontchartrain

Fish in Lake Pontchartrain | Types of Fish in Lake Pontchartrain

Lake Pontchartrain, the expansive estuarine lake in southeastern Louisiana, is a vibrant ecosystem teeming with a wide variety of fish species. Its unique brackish waters—created by the mix of freshwater from rivers and streams and saltwater from the Gulf of Mexico—make it an ideal environment for both freshwater and saltwater fish. Anglers from across the region are drawn to its waters year-round, and its ecological importance supports not only wildlife but also local economies.

This article provides a detailed look at the types of fish that inhabit Lake Pontchartrain, grouped into freshwater, saltwater, and migratory species.

Overview of Lake Pontchartrain's Ecosystem

Lake Pontchartrain covers about 630 square miles (1,630 km²), with an average depth of 12 to 14 feet (3.7 to 4.3 meters). Its waters are influenced by various sources: rivers like the Tchefuncte, Tangipahoa, and Amite bring in freshwater, while saltwater enters from the Gulf of Mexico through the Rigolets and Chef Menteur Pass. This dynamic blend fosters an estuarine environment—ideal for a wide diversity of fish species.

Saltwater and Brackish Fish Species

These fish are most abundant near the lake’s eastern edges, especially around the Rigolets and marshy shorelines where salinity is higher.

1. Spotted Seatrout (Speckled Trout)

• A top game fish in Louisiana, speckled trout are found in abundance in the lake.
• They prefer shallow grassy flats and oyster reefs.
• Anglers target them using soft plastics and live shrimp.

2. Red Drum (Redfish)

• Known for their strength and beautiful copper-red color.
• Common in shallow marshes, grassy areas, and along the lake’s causeways.
• Larger adults (called "bull reds") often venture into deeper parts of the lake.

3. Black Drum

• A bottom-dwelling relative of the red drum, often larger and darker.
• Feed on crustaceans and shellfish around pilings and oyster beds.

4. Southern Flounder

• A flatfish species known for ambushing prey from the bottom.
• Often found near sandy or muddy areas and along passes and tidal channels.

5. Sheepshead

• Recognizable by their black stripes and human-like teeth.
• Frequently found near bridge pilings and docks, where they feed on barnacles and crustaceans.

6. Gulf Menhaden

• Small, oily fish that travel in schools.
• Crucial as a food source for predatory fish and birds, and targeted for industrial use.

Freshwater Fish Species

These fish tend to thrive near river mouths and bayous on the north shore of the lake, where salinity is lower.

1. Largemouth Bass

• A favorite among freshwater anglers, particularly near the Tchefuncte River and Bayou Lacombe.
• Thrive in vegetated, shallow waters.

2. Bluegill and Other Sunfish

• Small, aggressive feeders that are common in marshes and tributaries.
• Often targeted by beginner anglers due to their abundance and willingness to bite.

3. Channel and Blue Catfish

• Found throughout the lake, particularly in areas with slower currents and deeper holes.
• Can grow to impressive sizes and are a staple in Louisiana cuisine.

4. Freshwater Drum (Gaspergou)

• Adaptable fish that can tolerate low salinity.
• Often mistaken for saltwater drum species but found closer to freshwater inflows.

Migratory and Seasonal Species

Some fish move into or out of Lake Pontchartrain depending on seasonal changes in temperature, salinity, and spawning cycles.

1. Striped Bass and Hybrid Striped Bass

• Occasionally found during cooler months.
• Hybrid striped bass have been stocked in some connected rivers and may move into the lake.

2. American Eel

• These migratory fish spawn in the Atlantic and migrate to freshwater rivers, occasionally appearing in the lake.

3. Atlantic Croaker

• More common in the fall and winter.
• Travel into estuarine waters to spawn and are often caught as bycatch.

Fishing Hotspots in Lake Pontchartrain

Lake Pontchartrain Causeway – Excellent for speckled trout, redfish, and sheepshead due to structure and tidal movement.

The Rigolets and Chef Menteur Pass – Ideal for saltwater species due to proximity to the Gulf.

Bayou Lacombe and Tchefuncte River – Best for bass, bream, and catfish.

Seabrook Bridge and Industrial Canal – Known for larger redfish, black drum, and flounder.

Conservation and Fishing Regulations

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) manages fish populations in Lake Pontchartrain. While fishing is widely encouraged, regulations are in place to maintain sustainable populations. Common rules include:

• Daily creel limits
• Size minimums
• Closed seasons for certain species
• Catch-and-release practices for threatened populations

Anglers should always check the most current regulations before heading out.

Conclusion: A Fisherman's Paradise with Ecological Importance

Lake Pontchartrain’s blend of freshwater and saltwater conditions makes it one of the most diverse fishing habitats in the Gulf South. From speckled trout and redfish to bass and catfish, the lake offers opportunities for all types of anglers, while also serving as a critical habitat for the region’s aquatic wildlife. Understanding the types of fish in the lake not only enhances the fishing experience but also helps promote responsible stewardship of this unique natural resource.