Weather and Water Conditions Finally Align

After weeks of challenging winter patterns, Cocodrie and the surrounding marshes of Terrebonne Parish have finally hit their stride. The stable weather pattern we've been enjoying has transformed our fishery, with water temperatures steadily climbing into the mid-60s across much of the region. This warming trend has triggered impressive activity throughout the marsh system, particularly for redfish and black drum.

Clear skies and moderate winds have meant predictable water levels and improved clarity, especially in the interior marsh ponds and shallow bays. The tides have been running on the stronger side, creating excellent feeding opportunities as water pushes through cuts and drains, concentrating baitfish and creating ambush points for predatory species.

Bull Redfish Making Their Presence Known

The bull redfish bite has been nothing short of spectacular over the past week. These oversized bruisers in the 25-35 pound class have been showing up consistently along the outer islands and deeper channels, providing our clients with rod-bending battles and memories that will last a lifetime.

Several trips this week produced multiple fish over 30 pounds, with the largest tipping the scales at an impressive 42 pounds. These giants have been particularly responsive to fresh cut mullet and menhaden chunks on the falling tide, especially when presented near structure or depth changes.

For those seeking these trophy reds, we've found success focusing on the outer regions near Last Island and the surrounding rigs, where the larger specimens tend to congregate this time of year. The deeper channels leading from Cocodrie out toward Cat Island Pass have also been productive hunting grounds when the tide is moving.

Marsh Action Heating Up

The interior marsh complex has come alive as water temperatures stabilize. Slot-sized redfish (16-27 inches) have been aggressively feeding in the shallow ponds and along grass lines, often giving themselves away with visible pushes and wakes that make for exciting sight fishing opportunities.

Black drum have joined the party as well, with impressive numbers of these powerful fighters showing up along shell banks and around structure. While not typically the primary target for most anglers, these bulldogs have provided non-stop action when the redfish get finicky, and they make excellent table fare when kept in the smaller size range.

Speckled trout action remains somewhat spotty but is showing definite signs of improvement. The deeper bayous connecting to Lake Barre and Terrebonne Bay have been holding decent numbers, particularly during the early morning hours. As water temperatures continue to rise, expect this bite to significantly improve in the coming weeks.

Tactics and Baits Producing Results

The fish have been surprisingly cooperative across a variety of presentations. In the clearer interior marshes, gold spoons and soft plastics under popping corks have been deadly effective. When targeting the shallow ponds, we've had great success with weedless gold spoons that can be worked through the grass without hanging up.

For those preferring natural baits, fresh shrimp under a cork has been the consistent producer, especially when targeting mixed bags that include drum, sheepshead, and the occasional flounder. When specifically targeting bull reds in the deeper areas, nothing beats a chunk of fresh mullet or menhaden fished on the bottom.

During lower light conditions (early morning and late afternoon), topwater presentations have triggered explosive strikes from upper-slot redfish patrolling the grass lines. The excitement of watching a redfish blow up on a surface lure is something every angler should experience.

## Looking Ahead: Spring Patterns Emerging

As we continue through February and into March, all signs point to an exceptional spring season ahead. Baitfish populations are already showing up in good numbers, which typically translates to improved fishing as predators follow their food source.

The warming trend is forecasted to continue, with only minor cold fronts expected in the coming weeks. This stability should further enhance the bite and potentially trigger an early spring pattern, particularly for speckled trout.

The window for targeting trophy bull reds typically extends through early spring, so opportunities remain for anglers seeking that once-in-a-lifetime catch. As water temperatures climb further, these giants will eventually move toward deeper Gulf waters, so now is the time to capitalize on their presence.

## Booking Information

Our calendar is filling quickly as word spreads about the hot bite, but we still have select dates available in late February and March. For those planning spring trips, we recommend securing your dates soon, as the prime spring weeks are typically our busiest time of year.

Mother Nature can indeed throw us curveballs from time to time, but when she cooperates as she has been lately, there's no better place to be than the productive waters surrounding Cocodrie, Louisiana. The incredible experiences we strive to provide as guides are happening daily now, with clients leaving the water with sore arms, camera rolls full of photos, and plans to return.

Come join us in experiencing some of the finest inshore fishing Louisiana has to offer. The marshes are alive, the fish are hungry, and conditions couldn't be better for that trip of a lifetime.

Tight lines,
Capt. Todd Monson
Cocodrie, Louisiana

Step into the pristine marshes of Houma and Cocodrie, Louisiana, where Captain Todd Monson guides anglers to world-class encounters with redfish and black drum. From Houma's intricate waterways to Cocodrie's vast marsh system, these productive waters offer unparalleled opportunities to sight fish for these powerful species. Whether you prefer the elegant presentation of fly fishing or the versatility of light tackle, Captain Todd's intimate knowledge of Terrebonne Parish's diverse ecosystems ensures productive days on the water throughout fall, winter, and spring.
Fall brings the anticipation of cooling waters and aggressive redfish. As temperatures drop, schools of redfish become more concentrated, often tailing in shallow ponds and along grass lines throughout both Houma and Cocodrie's marsh systems. Captain Todd expertly positions his skiff to give anglers the best shots at these feeding fish, whether you're presenting a well-placed fly or working a soft plastic along the bottom. The crystal-clear waters of Cocodrie's outer marsh and Houma's protected bays create perfect conditions for spotting both redfish and black drum, making this season ideal for sight fishing enthusiasts.
Winter in Louisiana's marsh doesn't mean the end of great fishing - it's quite the opposite. While other areas along the Gulf Coast might struggle during colder months, Captain Todd's local knowledge helps him locate concentrations of fish in deeper holes and protected areas throughout Houma and Cocodrie. Black drum become particularly active during this season, offering anglers the opportunity to target these powerful fish in shallow water. The clearest water of the year makes winter sight fishing especially productive, with opportunities to spot fish from considerable distances in both locations' pristine waters.
Spring ushers in some of the year's most exciting fishing opportunities. As water temperatures rise, redfish spread throughout the marsh systems of both Houma and Cocodrie, becoming more active and aggressive. Captain Todd's years of experience allow him to pattern these fish as they transition from winter haunts to springtime feeding grounds. This season offers excellent opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers to sight fish for tailing reds and cruising black drum across the diverse waters of Terrebonne Parish.
What sets Captain Todd apart is his patient, educational approach to guiding and his extensive knowledge of both Houma and Cocodrie's waterways. Whether you're making your first cast with a fly rod or you're an experienced angler looking to refine your skills, his calm instruction and clear communication help you improve while enjoying a memorable day on the water. His modern, fully-equipped shallow-water skiff provides the perfect platform for sight fishing, complete with top-quality gear suited for both fly and spin fishing enthusiasts.
Don't miss the opportunity to experience the legendary marsh fishing of Houma and Cocodrie with one of Louisiana's most accomplished guides. From the thrill of watching a redfish track down your fly in Cocodrie's shallow ponds to the heart-pounding moment when a black drum crushes your bait in Houma's protected bays, Captain Todd Monson delivers the kind of fishing experiences that keep anglers coming back year after year. Book your trip today and discover why these pristine marsh waters offer some of the finest sight fishing opportunities in the Southeast, all under the expert guidance of Captain Todd Monson.

Despite challenging winter conditions this week with strong winds, cloudy skies, and temperatures dropping into the 40s, the legendary Louisiana marsh continues to produce trophy bull reds. Our persistence paid off with several memorable catches, including Jeff's introduction to Louisiana redfish - a massive bull that showcased why our waters are rapidly gaining recognition as a world-class fishery.

The marsh is holding good numbers of bull reds and black drum in the 20-40 pound class. We're finding success targeting deeper holes and channels where these giants seek refuge from cold fronts. Both fly and light tackle anglers are connecting with trophy fish, though the wind has made fly presentation challenging. The murky water from recent winds has actually worked in our favor, bringing the big bulls into shallower water to feed.

What sets our fishery apart is the sheer number of trophy-class fish available year-round. While recently discovered by the wider fishing community, the Louisiana marsh offers anglers unmatched opportunities for personal-best catches. Whether you're a seasoned fly angler seeking tailing reds or a spin fisher wanting to tangle with bruiser black drum, these waters consistently deliver exceptional experiences.

Book your adventure and discover why the Louisiana marsh is becoming known as one of America's premier sight-fishing destinations.

Tight lines from the bayou!

Capt. Todd Monson

Despite challenging winter conditions with temperatures in the mid-30s and persistent clouds and wind, we're still finding quality fish. While the cold water has made fish more lethargic, we're connecting with both trophy bull reds and slot-sized fish, plus some quality black drum.
Worth noting that weather reports haven't been telling the full story. Most days, conditions improve significantly from morning to afternoon, often creating prime fishing windows. As I always tell my clients, "You don't know if you don't go" - and this week proved that point perfectly.
Looking ahead, expect these winter patterns to continue, but don't let the cold forecasts keep you off the water. Some of our best days happen when conditions appear less than ideal.
Book your winter trip now while we're still on the bull red pattern.

New Year’s Eve last fish of 2024 great trip for Terry and his wife absolutely put on a show with great numbers of fish patrolling the shallows and awesome weather to add to the experience. Can’t complain about that looking forward to 2025 see what the new year brings. 

Been a great week on the water cool temps sunny sky and light winds between 10-15mph and chilly temps keeping the water clarity nice and clean. Fishing has been great here on the southern Louisiana coast. 

The fall bull red run is in full swing in the marshes near Cocodrie, with exceptional sight-fishing opportunities for trophy redfish. These bronze-backed giants are crushing flies in the shallow water, giving our anglers incredible shots at 20-30+ pound fish daily.

Current conditions are perfect - clear water, light winds, and cooperative fish. We're consistently spotting schools of bulls cruising the flats and edges, with most fish in the 30-40 inch range. The topwater action has been especially thrilling, with these massive reds creating explosive strikes that'll make your heart stop.

When visibility allows, we're sight-casting to individual fish, watching them track and demolish our flies. The visual aspect of this fishery is unmatched - there's nothing quite like watching a 30-pound redfish rush down your fly in gin-clear water.

Only a few prime dates remain for this fall and winter bull red season. Whether you're an experienced angler or looking to catch your first bull red on fly, our specialized technical poling skiff and years of local knowledge put you in the perfect position for success.

Book now for your shot at the fish of a lifetime!

Capt. Todd Monson