Winter Tactics: Finding Reds in the Marsh

When the thermometer drops and the north wind kicks up in South Louisiana, many anglers hang up their rods until spring. But for those of us down in Chauvin and Cocodrie, we know a secret: Winter can be some of the best Redfish action of the year.

While the fish are still out there, the game changes once the water temperature dips. To help you fill the cooler during your stay at PVL, here is our local guide to mastering the winter marsh.

1. The "Deep Hole" Strategy

In the summer, you’ll find Reds tailing in the shallowest grass flats you can find. In the winter, it’s all about the thermocline. On those cold, "blue-bird" days (clear skies after a cold front), the shallow water loses its heat fast.

The Move: Look for deeper holes (6–10 feet) adjacent to shallow flats or in the bends of the bayous. The fish will huddle in these pockets where the water temperature stays a few degrees more stable. As the sun hits its peak in the afternoon and warms the mud flats, they’ll move back up to sun themselves and feed.

2. Slow Down Your Presentation

Cold water means a slower metabolism for the fish. They aren't going to chase a fast-moving topwater or a high-speed spinnerbait like they do in July.

The Tactic: Use a slower retrieve. If you think you’re fishing slow, slow down even more. Soft plastics on a 1/8 oz or 1/4 oz jig head are your best friend. Work the bottom with small "hops" or a slow crawl. If you're using bait, a piece of cracked crab or dead shrimp on the bottom is almost irresistible to a hungry Winter Red.

3. Look for "Clean" Water

Winter fronts often push the water out of the marsh, leaving things a bit stirred up. However, the lack of algae and biological growth in winter can lead to some of the clearest water we see all year.

The Tip: Focus on the leeward side of the marsh (the side protected from the wind) to find clear water. Sight-fishing for Reds in the winter is an incredible experience because you can often see them "laid up" in the clear, shallow ponds during the warmest part of the day.

4. Direct Access from PVL

One of the best parts about staying at Pelican’s View Lodge is that you don’t have to travel far. Our location on Edgewater Drive puts you right at the gateway to these winter haunts. You can launch your boat, hit the deeper bends of the local bayous, and be back at the lodge to warm up by the stove in no time.

Ready to test your winter skills? The Reds are waiting. Check our Calendar to book your winter getaway at PVL and experience the best of Chauvin fishing without the summer crowds.