Fishing, Birding in Southwest Louisiana

The area is a prime spot for catching bass and redfish, and sighting brown pelicans, egrets and migratory birds.

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Enjoy the outdoors along the Creole Nature Trail, where birding and fishing are favorite activities.

Fishing

These legendary wetlands are a watery paradise that beckons fishermen looking for land "the big one."  Bass, white perch and panfish are on the platter for Calcasieu River and Sabine River.  Spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, trick worms, craw worms and crankbaits will help anglers lure in a beauty.  Saltwater action is great near the Saltwater Barrier, the Olin Cut across the ship channel from the Lake Charles Docks, the east side of the I-210 bridge and Contraband Bayou.  Be sure and bait your line with plastic grubs, Johnson spoons and plastic shad-looking lures to catch speckled trout, redfish, or flounder.

Bird Watching

Recent studies indicate a greater number of North American land birds pass through Louisiana than any other state.  The different species of birds one might observe is unparalleled.  Most people know about the brown pelican, synonymous with the Bayou State.  Along with it are many variations of heron, egrets, ducks and geese, hawks, gulls, hummingbirds and sparrows.  Being in the birds’ environment is just as enjoyable as seeing them.

The nationally renowned Creole Nature Trail All-American Road, referred to as “Louisiana’s Outback,” is currently the only All-American Road in the Gulf South and one of only 21 in the United States.  Starting in Sulphur or Lake Charles, the trail is about 180 miles long and brings visitors deep into the heart of Calcasieu and Cameron parishes.  Since it is located in the Mississippi Flyway, it is a tour that birders and photographers do not want to miss.

Another point of interest is the Peveto Woods Bird and Butterfly Sanctuaries, located in Cameron Parish.  The Baton Rouge Audubon Society has preserved this unique habitat and established the first chenier sanctuary for migratory birds.  Because more than 2 million birds use the site every year, this 41-acre island is a favorite spot for birders especially during the spring.

For more information or to get a copy of our Hunting and Fishing and/or Birding Guides, contact the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau at 337-436-9588 or 800-456-SWLA.