Bayou Lacombe is a shallow, brackish estuary where freshwater and saltwater mix, making it home to redfish, speckled trout, and flounder year-round

Bayou Lacombe sits in St. Tammany Parish on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, about 35 miles northeast of New Orleans. The bayou itself is roughly 8 miles long and opens into the lake at its southern end. The water is typically 3 to 6 feet deep in the main channel and shallower in the marsh flats that border it. Because freshwater from local creeks mixes with saltwater from the lake, the salinity changes with rainfall and tidal flow — this variation is what draws the fish and makes the bayou productive year-round.

The bayou is accessible by boat launch at Lacombe Landing, a public facility on the north bank managed by St. Tammany Parish. From there, you can reach the main channel within minutes. The surrounding area is residential and commercial, with marinas, bait shops, and restaurants along the waterfront. Unlike the remote swamps further west, Bayou Lacombe is developed and easy to reach, which makes it popular with local anglers and weekend visitors.

Key Takeaways

  • Redfish and speckled trout are the primary target species, with flounder and sheepshead also present depending on season and water conditions.
  • Lacombe Landing is the main public boat launch, located on the north bank with parking, restrooms, and a small fee per vehicle.
  • Spring and fall are the most reliable seasons for consistent catches, though the bayou holds fish in summer and winter as well.
  • Shallow-water techniques — poling flats, casting to structure, and sight-fishing — work better here than deep-water trolling.
  • Louisiana saltwater fishing licenses are required; check current regulations for bag limits and size restrictions before you fish.

Species and Seasons at Bayou Lacombe

Redfish are the most consistent catch in Bayou Lacombe. They feed in the shallow flats and marsh edges year-round, hunting small baitfish and crustaceans. Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) produce the most active feeding, but redfish are catchable in summer and winter too. They respond well to live mullet, shrimp, and soft plastics worked slowly along grass beds and oyster reefs.

Speckled trout (spotted seatrout) are abundant in the deeper channel and around structure. They school in the 4- to 8-foot range and feed most actively during low light — early morning, late afternoon, and overcast days. Fall is peak season for trout, though they remain present through spring. Summer trout tend to move deeper and feed less predictably during midday heat.

Flounder are present year-round but most abundant in spring and fall. They hold on the bottom near drop-offs and structure, feeding on small fish and shrimp. Winter flounder fishing can be productive if you fish the deeper holes in the main channel. Summer flounder are scattered and less reliable.

Sheepshead appear in winter and early spring around oyster reefs, pilings, and structure. They are hard-fighting fish that require light tackle and patience. Fiddler crabs and small shrimp are the best baits.

Access and Boat Launch Details

Lacombe Landing is the primary public access point. The facility is located on the north bank of the bayou at the end of Bayou Road in Lacombe. It has a concrete ramp suitable for trailered boats up to about 24 feet, parking for roughly 30 vehicles and trailers, restrooms, and a small picnic area. A day-use fee is charged per vehicle; the amount varies but is typically under $10. The launch is open during daylight hours year-round.

From Lacombe Landing, the main channel runs south toward Lake Pontchartrain. Shallow-draft boats and skiffs are ideal because much of the productive water is 2 to 4 feet deep. Larger center-console boats can navigate the main channel but will have limited access to the flats where redfish feed. Kayaks and small jon boats are popular for anglers targeting shallow-water species.

Several private marinas and bait shops operate along the bayou. These facilities typically offer fuel, ice, tackle, and live bait. Some rent boats or guide services. Calling ahead is wise, especially on weekends, to confirm availability and hours.

Fishing Techniques and Structure

Sight-fishing is effective in Bayou Lacombe because the water is shallow and relatively clear, especially on calm days. Poling a skiff across the flats and watching for tailing redfish or cruising trout allows you to target individual fish. This method works best during high tide when fish move into shallow water to feed.

Casting to structure — oyster reefs, grass beds, fallen trees, and dock pilings — is the most reliable approach. Redfish and trout hold around these features waiting for baitfish. Use soft plastics (3- to 4-inch shrimp or mullet patterns), live shrimp, or small live mullet. Cast beyond the structure and retrieve slowly, letting the bait move naturally.

The grass flats on both sides of the main channel hold redfish and some trout. Early morning and late afternoon are best. Work the edges where grass meets open water, and fish the pockets within the grass beds.

Deeper holes in the main channel (5 to 8 feet) hold trout and flounder, especially during midday. Vertical jigging with small spoons or soft plastics works well. Live shrimp on a simple rig also produces.

Regulations and Licensing

Louisiana requires a saltwater fishing license for anyone 16 and older fishing in saltwater or brackish water. Bayou Lacombe is brackish, so a license is required. You can purchase a license online through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) website, at most bait and tackle shops, or at sporting goods retailers. Options include a 3-day, 14-day, or annual license. Prices vary; check the LDWF website for current rates.

Bag limits and size restrictions change by species and sometimes by season. As of the most recent regulations, redfish have a 3-fish daily limit with a 16-inch minimum size. Speckled trout have a 25-fish daily limit with a 12-inch minimum. Flounder have a 10-fish daily limit with a 12-inch minimum. These rules are subject to change, so check the LDWF website or ask at a local bait shop before you fish.

Closed seasons apply to some species during spawning periods. Redfish and trout have no closed season in Bayou Lacombe, but always verify current rules with LDWF before your trip.

When to Fish and What to Bring

Spring (March through May) is excellent for both redfish and trout. Water temperatures are warming, fish are feeding actively, and the weather is generally pleasant. Fall (September through November) is equally productive and often less crowded than spring. Summer is fishable but can be slow during midday heat; fish early and late. Winter is productive for flounder and sheepshead, though weather can be unpredictable.

Tidal flow affects fishing success. Bayou Lacombe is influenced by Lake Pontchartrain's tidal range, which is typically 1 to 2 feet. Rising tide pushes fish into shallow flats; falling tide concentrates them in deeper channels. Check tide tables before you go — many local bait shops post them, and online tide predictors cover Bayou Lacombe.

Bring a shallow-water boat or rent one locally. Wear polarized sunglasses to see fish in shallow water. Bring light to medium spinning tackle (6- to 8-pound test is standard), a selection of soft plastics and spoons, live bait if you prefer it, a net, and a cooler. Sun protection, insect repellent, and a life jacket are essential. The bayou can be windy, especially in spring and fall, so check the forecast.

Nearby Services and Lodging

The town of Lacombe has bait and tackle shops, fuel docks, and restaurants within a short drive of the launch. Covington, about 10 miles north, is a larger town with grocery stores, gas stations, and lodging options. Mandeville, on the south shore of Lake Pontchartrain, has hotels, restaurants, and shops and is about 15 miles away by road.

If you are visiting from out of state, the nearest major airport is Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, about 50 miles south. Rental cars are available there. Driving from New Orleans to Bayou Lacombe takes roughly 45 minutes via Interstate 10 and US 190.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a guide to fish Bayou Lacombe?

No, but a guide can be helpful if you are unfamiliar with the bayou's layout and seasonal patterns. Several charter captains operate out of local marinas and offer half-day and full-day trips. Guides know where fish are holding and can teach you local techniques. If you prefer to fish on your own, the main channel and nearby flats are straightforward to navigate.

What size boat do I need?

A shallow-draft skiff (16 to 20 feet) is ideal because it can access the flats where redfish feed. Kayaks and small jon boats work well for anglers targeting shallow water. Larger center-console boats can fish the main channel but will miss the productive shallow areas. Rental boats are available at local marinas if you don't have your own.

Is Bayou Lacombe safe to fish alone?

Yes, the bayou is well-traveled and close to residential areas. However, always wear a life jacket, carry a cell phone, and tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Weather can change quickly, so check the forecast before you launch.

Can I fish Bayou Lacombe in winter?

Yes. Winter (December through February) is productive for flounder and sheepshead, though water temperatures drop and fish move deeper. Redfish and trout are still present but less active. Dress warmly and be prepared for occasional cold snaps and rough water.

What is the best time of day to fish?

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and late afternoon (mid-afternoon to sunset) are most productive because light is low and fish feed actively. Overcast days are also good. Midday fishing is slower, especially in summer, but flounder and some trout can be caught in deeper holes if you fish vertically.