What Bait to Use in Lake Pontchartrain

Lake Pontchartrain, a vast estuarine lake in southeastern Louisiana, offers diverse fishing opportunities thanks to its mix of fresh and brackish waters. From speckled trout and redfish to catfish and black drum, each species responds differently to bait, depending on the season, location, and water conditions. Knowing what bait to use can make the difference between a successful fishing trip and a frustrating day on the water.

Live Bait: The Go-To for Big Catches

1. Live Shrimp

Perhaps the most versatile bait in Lake Pontchartrain, live shrimp appeals to a wide variety of fish, especially speckled trout, redfish, sheepshead, and black drum. Use them under a popping cork or free-lined in deeper channels. During warmer months, shrimp are especially effective near bridges and pilings.

2. Croakers and Mullet

Larger predatory fish like bull redfish and big speckled trout are drawn to live croakers and finger mullet. These baits mimic natural prey and work best in summer and fall when game fish are aggressively feeding. Fish them on Carolina rigs or free-line them near drop-offs and along the Causeway Bridge.

3. Pogies (Menhaden)

Used whole or as cut bait, pogies are ideal for attracting big black drum, redfish, and even sharks. They're oily and release a strong scent trail, drawing fish from a distance. Fish them near the bottom in deeper areas, especially around the Rigolets and Chef Menteur Pass.

Cut Bait: Scented Success

1. Cut Mullet or Croaker

When targeting bottom feeders like black drum, catfish, and bull redfish, cut mullet and croaker are incredibly effective. The strong scent helps fish locate the bait even in murky water. Use heavy weights to keep the bait in place on the lakebed, especially during strong tidal movement.

2. Cut Shrimp or Squid

A more budget-friendly option, cut shrimp and squid work well for smaller game fish and sheepshead. These baits are best used on a bottom rig or jig head near structures like docks, piers, or rock piles.

Artificial Lures: When Natural Isn’t Necessary

1. Soft Plastics (Shrimp & Minnow Imitations)

Artificial lures like Matrix Shad, H&H Cocahoes, and Gulp! Shrimp are favorites for trout and redfish. They’re particularly effective in cooler months when fish are sluggish. Pair them with jig heads and fish them slowly near the bottom or twitch them near grassy flats and pilings.

2. Topwater Lures

Early morning or late evening is the best time for topwater fishing in Lake Pontchartrain. Lures like the Zara Spook and Heddon Super Spook mimic wounded baitfish and can draw explosive strikes from speckled trout and redfish.

3. Spoons and Spinnerbaits

Flashy lures like gold spoons are ideal for covering lots of water and targeting aggressive redfish. Spinnerbaits work well in murky conditions, especially near marsh edges and grassy areas.

Seasonal Bait Considerations

Spring: Live shrimp and soft plastics are highly effective as fish become more active.

Summer: Switch to croakers, mullet, and pogies for targeting larger fish in deeper water.

Fall: A peak fishing season; all bait types perform well. Focus on live bait and cut bait.

Winter: Fish slow and deep with soft plastics and cut shrimp.

Pro Tips

1. Match the bait to the fish species and water conditions. For example, use cut bait in stained water and live bait in clear conditions.
2. Observe local forage. If mullet are plentiful, try using mullet-pattern lures or live mullet.
3. Keep bait fresh. Fish are more likely to strike if the bait is lively or freshly cut.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right bait for Lake Pontchartrain depends on the target species, the season, and water clarity. Whether you prefer the reliability of live shrimp or the challenge of artificial lures, understanding the behavior of local fish and the conditions they thrive in will increase your chances of a productive day on the water.