If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to experience world-class sight-fishing for massive bull redfish, fall in Louisiana is calling your name. I’m Captain Gregg Arnold, and after years of guiding fly anglers through these incredible coastal marshes, I can confidently say that October through December offers some of the most explosive redfish action you’ll find anywhere. When you book Louisiana fly fishing charters during these months, you’re setting yourself up for the trip of a lifetime.
October marks the beginning of what I consider the golden quarter of Louisiana redfish fishing. The oppressive summer heat has finally broken, and we’re greeted with crisp mornings in the 60s and comfortable afternoons in the 70s and low 80s. These conditions make all-day fishing not just possible, but genuinely enjoyable. When you step aboard for Louisiana fly fishing charters in October, you can expect to fish hard from sunrise to sunset without the exhaustion that comes with summer’s brutal temperatures.
The bull redfish during October are at their absolute peak. We’re talking about fish in the heart of their spawning season, which means they’re at maximum weight and feeding with incredible aggression. These aren’t tentative fish—they’re actively hunting, and when they see a well-presented fly, they attack it with explosive takes that will test your tackle and your nerves. Louisiana fly fishing charters in October consistently produce multiple shots at trophy-class bulls in the 20 to 40-pound range.
Water clarity during fall is dramatically better than summer, and this makes all the difference for sight-fishing. As temperatures cool, the water takes on that beautiful green or clear quality that allows us to spot fish from impressive distances. During Louisiana fly fishing charters from October through December, we’re routinely seeing tailing and cruising redfish from 50 feet or more, giving you ample time to get into position and execute your cast with precision.
The tailing phenomenon during these months is simply spectacular. Bull redfish spend extensive time rooting in the shallows for crabs and shrimp, and their distinctive bronze tails waving above the surface create one of fly fishing’s most iconic sights. I’ve had days during Louisiana fly fishing charters in fall where we’ve encountered hundreds of tailing fish across multiple flats. It’s the kind of visual fishing that photographs can’t quite capture—you have to experience it yourself.
November brings some of the most stable and productive fishing of the entire year. The weather patterns typically settle into comfortable rhythms with light winds and sunny skies between frontal passages. The bull redfish continue their aggressive feeding, and we’re finding them in predictable locations based on tides, temperatures, and forage availability. When you book Louisiana fly fishing charters in November, you’re fishing during a month that consistently delivers both quality and quantity.
The spawn is winding down by November, but that doesn’t mean the fishing slows—quite the opposite. Post-spawn bulls are hungry and looking to replenish their energy reserves. They’re still congregating in impressive numbers on the flats, and they’re absolutely willing to eat. The combination of comfortable weather, clear water, and aggressive fish makes Louisiana fly fishing charters in November a favorite among my repeat clients.
December is Louisiana’s hidden gem for fly fishing. While anglers in other parts of the country are winterizing their gear, our marshes continue to produce phenomenal fishing. The weather remains mild—typically 50s in the morning warming to the 60s and 70s—and the bull redfish stay active. What makes December special is the solitude. Louisiana fly fishing charters during this month often mean having entire bays and flats to yourself, creating an exclusive, private experience on world-class water.
The fish behavior during December is fascinating and productive. On sunny days, redfish will push onto shallow flats to absorb warmth and feed actively. I know exactly where to find these warming flats and how to position us for success. The bulls may move a bit more deliberately than in October, but they’re every bit as willing to eat a properly presented fly. Louisiana fly fishing charters in December offer excellent fishing with the added benefit of uncrowded conditions.
Throughout the October to December period, the diversity of fishing opportunities keeps things exciting. We’ll work shallow grass flats where redfish tail and cruise, fish oyster reefs where bulls ambush baitfish, pole across mud flats with potholes and channels, and position ourselves along current-rich shorelines. This variety means every Louisiana fly fishing charter offers something different, and we can adapt our approach based on conditions and what the fish are doing.
Black drum become increasingly active as fall progresses into winter, adding another dimension to our fishing. These powerful, bruising fish often share the same flats as bull redfish, and landing a 30-pound black drum on fly tackle is an arm-burning experience you won’t forget. The opportunity to target multiple trophy species makes Louisiana fly fishing charters during fall particularly rewarding for anglers who appreciate variety.
My approach to guiding is built on intimate knowledge of these marshes and a genuine passion for sight-fishing. I know where fish stage during different tidal phases, how weather patterns affect their behavior, which flats produce best during various times of fall, and how to read the subtle signs that indicate where schools will be. When you book Louisiana fly fishing charters with me, you’re getting decades of accumulated knowledge and a guide who’s absolutely obsessed with putting clients on fish.
I work with anglers of all experience levels, from seasoned saltwater veterans to those throwing their first saltwater fly. If you can make a decent cast and follow directions, we can catch fish together. I’ll help you with fly selection, presentation techniques, and reading water. My Louisiana fly fishing charters are as much about education and skill development as they are about catching fish—though we definitely prioritize catching fish.
The tackle we use is appropriate for these powerful fish—typically 8 to 10-weight rods matched with quality reels that have smooth drags and plenty of backing. Bull redfish will test your equipment, and there’s nothing quite like the feeling of a 30-pound fish ripping line off your reel on a blistering run. These are legitimate trophy fish that require proper gear and technique, and I’ll make sure you’re set up for success on your Louisiana fly fishing charter.
The Louisiana marsh ecosystem is one of the most productive in North America, and fall highlights this abundance. The extensive grass flats, intricate bayou systems, oyster reefs, and healthy forage base create perfect habitat for massive populations of bull redfish. Unlike some destinations where you’re fishing for a handful of fish, our marshes hold incredible numbers. Multiple shots per day aren’t just possible during Louisiana fly fishing charters—they’re expected.
I practice catch and release for all bull redfish, handle fish carefully, and fish with respect for this remarkable resource. These marshes have been incredibly good to me over the years, and I’m committed to ensuring they remain healthy and productive for future generations. When you fish Louisiana fly fishing charters with me, you’re not just hiring a guide—you’re fishing with someone who genuinely cares about conservation and sustainable fishing practices.
The memories created during fall fishing last a lifetime. I’ve watched clients land their first bull redfish on fly, seen experienced anglers break personal records, and shared countless moments of pure excitement when someone connects with a fish that bends their rod double. These are the moments that make guiding so rewarding, and October through December consistently delivers these experiences on Louisiana fly fishing charters.
If you’re serious about experiencing some of the best sight-fishing for bull redfish anywhere, fall in Louisiana should be at the top of your list. The fish are there in incredible numbers, the conditions are ideal, and I’m ready to show you what makes these marshes so special. Whether you’re looking to check bull redfish off your bucket list or you’re a seasoned fly angler seeking your next great adventure, Louisiana fly fishing charters during October through December will exceed your expectations.
The marshes are ready, the bulls are feeding, and the weather is perfect. Let’s get you on the water and create some unforgettable memories together. I promise you’ll understand why fall is my favorite time to guide and why so many of my clients return year after year for their Louisiana fly fishing charters during these magical months.
Tight lines,
Captain Gregg Arnold
Ready to experience fall redfish fishing at its absolute best? Contact me today to check availability and book your Louisiana fly fishing charters. Let’s chase bull redfish together this October through December.
