NOLA 2021

 My goal this year was to fish the barrier islands near New Orleans, called the Chandalier Islands.  For several years I have tried to schedule my trip to coincide with the migration of redfish around the islands, along with adult tarpon and big jacks.  It seemed that a July trip might provide the good weather necessary to make the long run.

Not this year. 

Each day we were met with surly, conditions-thunderstorms popping up all around the marsh.  As a result we were forced to fish the marsh, and try to put the islands behind us.  

Fishing was tough, and the larger, bull reds (20 lbs. to 30 lbs.+) just weren't around.  Even the smaller redfish were far and few between.

Finally, I had a good shot at this 15 lb. red, and a few smaller fish!

This 18 lb. red turned out to be the largest fish, for myself and my partner, for 4 days of fishing!

  This fish was exceptional with bright orange finds and coloring.   

(we had to cancel our last day due to weather)

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There were a few big black drum around and my partner, Doug Behrman connected with this nice 

42.2 lb. black that pulled hard and gave us some excitement.

Doug Behrman and Capt. Jason Catchings

Not the prettiest fish in the marsh, but a powerful, strong fish, on a fly rod!

Many thanks for guide Capt. Jason Catchings, and my partner, Doug Behrman, for a great trip.

Jason worked hard for us, and I am anxious to fish with him again.

I am looking forward to a return match with the bull reds of NOLA!

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