Backwater Fishing with Captain Scott King

Set out from Venice, Louisiana, at the very mouth of the Mississippi River, and you’ll find Capt. Scott King’s Backwater Fishing trip a direct line to some of America’s most productive inshore waters. Operating from a 24' Bluewave powered by a Yamaha 300 HP, this full‑day, guide‑led charter pushes into reed-lined marshes, oyster cheniers, and shallow flats where Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, and Black Drum stage in predictable, hard-fighting numbers.

The outing begins at Venice Marina or Cypress Cove Marina and runs six to eight hours with a licensed, experienced captain who reads tides, winds, and bait concentrations the way others read maps. The Mississippi River Delta is a mix of soft mudflats, shell ridges, and braided channels — geologic features formed by centuries of sediment deposition that make this coast a nursery for gamefish. Expect stark, open marsh punctuated by the white flash of terns, strings of diving pelicans, and the occasional dolphin rolling in a wake.

Trips are tailored to the season and your goals: sight-fishing tailing Reds on flood tides, sight-casting for trout over grass, or dragging soft plastics across structure. Captain Scott provides premium rods, reels, tackle, ice, and a personalized fishing plan; live bait can be added and the marina offers fish cleaning and shipping on return. Note that fuel is not included and typically averages about $850 per trip — a standard charge for extended runs from Venice out through river channels and into the hottest feeding areas.

This charter suits anglers of all skill levels — families, corporate groups, or experienced sportsmen seeking trophy sight-fishing. Groups run up to four anglers, though three or fewer makes for more comfortable casting. Everyone 18 and older must carry a Louisiana saltwater fishing license or purchase the $20 charter pass that covers multi-day fishing.

Beyond the catch, the trip is an immersion in a working estuarine landscape. You’ll get close to bald cypress edges, low oyster reefs that break the swell, and tidal sloughs that concentrate bait. Captain Scott’s local knowledge is the real difference: decades of reading current lines and knowing where fish stack under pressure and changing seasons.

If you’re chasing the raw confidence of putting lines into a delta system that produces consistent action and scenery unlike anywhere else in the Lower 48, this Venice inshore charter is a practical, high-return way to experience Louisiana fishing firsthand. Booking typically requires early reservations during peak months — spring and fall — when migrating baitfish narrow the fishing window. Expect to discuss target species, bait preferences, and mobility needs when you book; Captain Scott adapts rods and techniques for kids and beginners.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, layered sun-protective clothing, and a cooler for fillets; the marina handles cleaning.