As New Orleans becomes an increasingly popular destination for fly-anglers, the availability of quality fly-fishing guides becomes limited at times, especially for last-minute trips. Of course, like anywhere else, the further out you can plan betters your chance of hooking up with the right guide.

Unlike some other well-known saltwater destinations, New Orleans has a limited number of professional fly-fishing guides, however, we are fortunate that the ones we have are unbelievably talented. We are also fortunate that we have a legitimate year-round fishery.

Depending upon weather, you could have your best day of the year in January, August, October or any time in between. Simply be aware of weather patterns you may be likely to encounter such as extreme heat in the Summer and rather common gusty cold fronts in Winter. There can be excellent fishing during these seasons but the mentioned elements are factors you should be aware of when planning a trip.

Once you've selected a guide and have your trip booked, make sure that you begin your preparations. Be aware that you may very likely be responsible for your own transportation to and from the marina or lauch site although there are a couple of guides whom at times can provide pick-up. Make rental car arrangements in advance if needed.

It would not be recommended to purchase your fishing license more than one day ahead of time as you may have a cancellation due to weather and all license sales are final. Instructions for license purchasing can be found under the "services" tab on this website. For current marine forecasts, you can visit www.laflyfish.com and click on the "Marine Forecast - SE" tab.

Generally, any wind forecast of 10 knots or less is fantastic, 10-15 pretty good, 15-20 not ideal but potentially still a "go", and 20+ is better weather for grabbing a couple dozen on the half-shell and a cold Abita Amber at ACME Oyster Bar in the French Quarter. A cancelled day is also a good opportunity to visit Uptown Angler to look at some great gear and at least talk about fishing.

Back to preparation, make sure that you've practiced your "short game" casting. Many of the shots you will get at Louisiana Redfish will be within 30 feet of the boat, and some of them less than a leader's length away. Practice casting at targets from 10-50 feet and use as few false casts as possible. The major objective is to get it right in front of them and get it in front of them fast. If it's calm, get out and practice.

If it's windy, definitely get out and practice. Also, make sure that you are comfortable with such techniques as "double-hauling" and "strip-setting". Always remember too, that honesty is the best policy. You will not be doing yourself or your guide a favor by pretending to know more than you do. The cook needs to know what ingredients are in his kitchen to plan a good meal. The guides we have are extremely talented and knowledgeable. Although it's your trip and should be designed to your liking, the guide's recommendations on flies, leaders, fly-line, etc. should be taken and they will have everything you need specifically rigged for fishing Louisiana.

We hope you enjoy your fishing trip to Louisiana. Louisiana offers some of the best shallow-water fishing opportunities in the world. It's our goal at Uptown Angler to help you explore those opportunities by offering our advice and our recommendations for expert guides as well as recommendations on tackle, appropriate apparel, casting tips, etc.

So please stop by and see us while you are in New Orleans. In review, please note the following lists of do's and don'ts:

Do's:

• plan your dates as far in advance as possible
• speak with an associate at Uptown Angler for guide recommendations or select from this site
• speak with your prospective guide about trip details (times, locations, cancellation policy. Etc.)
• PRACTICE YOUR CASTING - ACCURACY BEATS DISTANCE EVERY TIME
• Check in with your guide on the day before your trip - once confirmed, purchase your Louisiana fishing license
• Dress in appropriate attire for your trip (sun-protective, quick dry & breathable for warmer months - breathable, moisture wicking, insulating and windproof for winter)
• Listen to your guide and enjoy the day
• Stop at Woodland Plantation for a "Woodland Punch" on your way back to the city

Don'ts:

• don't wait until the last minute to schedule your trip
• don't book a fly-fishing trip with a guide fishing out of a bay boat - all of our recommended guides fish out of shallow-draft flats skiffs
• don't practice "false-casting" - practice minimal cast line shooting
• don't bring your 5wt.
• don't stay out on Bourbon St. until 2 a.m. the night before fishing
• don't forget your fishing license
• don't expect high numbers of fish or huge fish - instead, expect an experienced and professional guide working hard to give you the best opportunity to catch fish possible...although you may catch a bunch of big fish.
• Don't forget to stop by and see us at Uptown Angler

Labels: fly fishing, fly fishing report, How to Plan a Fly Fishing Trip to New Orleans, Louisiana fishing, redfish, saltwater fly fishing