Venice/Livingston, LA USA

If you have Direct Tv tune in tonight at 6:30 CST to Ch 608 for the Premier of REEL SHOT OUTDOORS.  We have been working on this for a LONG time and the time is finally here.  On tonight's episode we have Every Cast Redfish action as my wife Jodie just HAMMERS them.  From there we travel to Saskatchewan as one of our prostaffers Barry Andre of Baton Rouge, Hunts for a B&C buck with his bow.   This is only episode 1!  We have LOTS of bucks, turkeys, ducks and hogs to kill.....OH, and a BUNCH of fish to catch this season.  
BTW, Ignore the listing, its incorrect, we will be on.

Tuesday, June 30, 2009 @ 1:53:00 PM

Venice, LA USA

NW in June?
Well....the last two days we have seen a northwest wind at 15-20....talk about unusual for late June! But you know what....we are still catching fish! And not dinks either...Lots of 3-4 pound trout and NUMEROUS....NUMEROUS...Redfish in the 10-20 pound class. The key? Leaving early, and Leaving with LIVE BAIT. Many times of the year its debatable as to wether you need live bait or not. Right its not. Its the difference between 15 fish and 75+ fish! This is not a stab at artificial fisherman, this is the cold hard facts right now.(althought it sure would never be described as cold right now!)
Surprisingly, the fish are still coming from the bays and not the rigs. I have no answer as to why the fish are not stacked on the platforms right now. One thing I have noticed is that the fish are positioned off the points IMMEDIETELY adjacent to the passes. I think the freshwater coming out is cooler and the moving water has more oxgen.

Fishing is just downright sick down here right now. Dont miss out!
Reel Shot Guide Service
985-969-0810
captbrandon@bellsouth.net

Tuesday, June 23, 2009 @ 8:52:02 PM

Venice, LA USA

More Smoke!
Another smokin day down in the delta! Had my group of doctor clients down lead by Dr. Todd Holman. Dr. Holman has been fishing with me for years and its no wonder....we always find something to catch down here! Well today he and Doug where in BIG O's boat and I got the left overs! HAHA I went away from where all the boats were heading and did my thang.... 50 trout limit and 8 reds before the guys said it was time to head to the barn. We'll be back at in the morning.....
Reel Shot Guide Service
985-969-0810
captbrandon@bellsouth.net

Saturday, June 20, 2009 @ 5:45:58 PM

Venice, LA USA

Completely silly down the river in Venice!!
Wow....just WOW!! That's all you can say about the fishing down in Venice right now! I mean the fish cleaning dock has been slammed! By everyone....guides and weekenders....

Normally this time of year I am fishing rigs almost exclusively, however this year the fish are still on the shoreline. Well kinda....many of our best spots are HUNDREDS of yards off the shore where stuff USED TO BE. We have just lost soooo much land down our way the last 5 years. Even our reds are coming from these spots whereas they are usually TIGHT to the cane.

The guarantee has been live shrimp under a cork, althought several days they action has been so intense that we have been catching many on plastic. Despite the high river there is lots of good water to be found as long as the wind isnt too stiff. Now that the river is falling and the winds have calmed it should be ON for the next few months.

I've got a FEW open dates coming up so dont mess around....come experience the BEST inshore saltwater action ANYWHERE!

Also dont forget to check out REEL SHOT OUTDOORS. June 30th, 6:30 pm cst Ch 608(Pursuit Channel) Direct TV is your first chance to see the the new show that is creating all the national buzz!
If you dont have direct tv, episodes will be available online at reelshotoutdoors.com

REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE
985-969-0810
captbrandon@bellsouth.net

Thursday, June 18, 2009 @ 1:56:37 PM

Venice, LA USA

Another Stellar Day in Venice
Beautiful weather and LOTS of Hungry trout down in the delta! Fished one spot this morning and only one spot. 75 trout by 7:30am!! This was these guys 3rd and final day, so we caught a few Reds and headed in. It just doesnt get any better. Dont let the high river fool you, we are catching fish!

Capt. Brandon Carter's Reel Shot Guide Service
captbrandon@bellsouth.net

Thursday, May 28, 2009 @ 8:27:02 PM

Venice, LA USA

Still Here
I've had several emails and calls lately asking if I am still guiding. Unfortunately, I am nowhere near out of business! HAHA

I've got a couple other irons in the fire right now that keep me busy when I am not on the water. The biggest iron is Reel Shot Outdoors. I am now producing a nationally airing tv series for Pursuit Channel (ch. 608 direct Tv). Suprisingly this is not just a fishing show. In addition to featuring some of the best fishing in the world, we also travel around the country hunting deer, turkey and some hogs. I can assure you, our show is different...in a refreshing way! Check us out at reelshotoutdoors.com Our season starts July 1.

Now to the fishing! Fishing this year has been pretty good down here in Venice. Not our greatest year, but much more consistent this year than last....trout in particular. We have caught fish in every direction from Venice lately. Just pick where you want to go. Most trout have been off the points as they have not moved onto the rigs just yet. Also plenty trout on the beaches. Despite the high river there is plenty of clean water to be found....but if you dont find clean water at your favorite spot, fish it anyway. My customers boxed 75 trout by 8am yesterday morning in water that looked like it would choke a channel cat.

Redfish have been in all the usual spots....AKA along the cane. A falling tide has definitely been better as you would expect. Problem is most days the fall has been later in the day. Not really a problem as you fish trout early and redfish late. Bulls are located along the beaches and mouths of the passes....and everywhere else most days.

Fishing will only get better as the summer goes on! June is very often one of the best months of the year. Dont forget July either. It may be hot but so is the fishing. I dont have many open days but I do have a few cancellations here and there.

Capt. Brandon Carter's Reel Shot Guide Service
captbrandon@bellsouth.net

Wednesday, May 27, 2009 @ 5:36:26 PM

Venice, LA USA

Got reports that our lodge survived the storm well.  Very little structural damage was reported in the area.  Some power poles down and boat sheds damaged, but overall we dodged a major bullet.  The levees in the Myrtle Grove and Pointe Celeste areas have breached, but sand bags had been placed across hw23 north and south of the area to contain the water.  This is a area that always suffers from tide surges.  Overall lower Plaquemines is in decent shape all things considered. No indication yet as to any "downriver" damage to the coast line.  I'm sure some areas will be washed away.  Its just something we have to live with in this day and age.  We'll back at it soon!

Tuesday, September 2, 2008 @ 9:13:55 PM

Venice, LA USA

180
Been home relaxing the last week after pumping out 50 charters in the last 2 months. Today was my first day back for 14 straight days. Hopefully the next two weeks will be like today! Woke up this morning and decided to do something totally different since the fishing had been a little slow lately. Well it paid off as the 180 I turned yielded a limit of trout AND reds. When we arrived they were jumping, flipping and busting. It was instant insanity! All fish were caught on live shrimp under a PARADISE POPPER. Just thought I would throw up a quick report since it seemed a little slow on the site today....good night all! www.rodnreel.com/reelshot

Wednesday, July 9, 2008 @ 9:19:19 PM

Venice, LA USA

7 pounders
The trout numbers have dipped lately, but the quality sure hasnt! I've had 7 pound trout the last to days! Ironically, both were caught while Bull Red fishing! Today we caught 50+ bulls in addition to 20 langiappe trout. Both big girls were released. Also, these two fish were caught 30+ miles apart! ENJOY the pics! www.rodnreel.com/reelshot

Thursday, June 26, 2008 @ 3:33:18 PM

Venice, LA USA

Another day, Another box of fish!
I dont like putting up reports without pictures, but I forgot my camera this morning. Anyway, Venice continues to produce. Today we had VERY LITTLE tidal movement but still made a great box of fish. Had a few short of the limit on trout, but did fill our limit on Reds. Planned on finishing off the trout, but it was HOT and the guys were ready....I actually MADE them stay out longer than they wanted! HAHA.... I thought it was a kinda slow morning, but when we got back to the dock several different folks walked up while I was cleaning the fish and asked, "Ya'll caught all them this morning!".  Venice will spoil you!

Live shrimp is definetly the ticket right now. Water temps are in the 80's and even feels warm when you stick your hand in it. Get out early and hit em hard!
www.rodnreel.com/reelshot

Tuesday, June 24, 2008 @ 1:23:59 PM

Venice, LA USA

Same 'ol same 'ol!
This week has begun just like last week....Limit of trout AND a limit of Reds. Got chased around a little by the thunderstorms this morning, but not to bad. All fish caught on live shrimp under a Paradise Popper. Venice is RED HOT!! www.rodnreel.com/reelshot

Monday, June 23, 2008 @ 8:10:42 PM

Venice, LA USA

Easy Venice Fishing!
Man! The past few weeks of fishing down here in the delta have been nothing short of GREAT! Lots of fish, with lots of size! Boxes of Big trout pretty much every day and Redfish?? Wow...Just Wow!!! I don't know if its possible to NOT catch a limit of Reds in Venice!! I'm too far behind to update every day of fishing, but I will give a general synopsis of whats going on.....

The trout bite has been kinda funny honestly. You cant just go anywhere and catch them. They are on very specific locations and then they might not be there tommorow. However, if your worth your salt, you can and will catch a big box of fish each day....Especially with this great weather we have been having. There are fish on the rigs as well as the cane and sandbars. You just have to read the conditions and adapt.

Over the last two weeks the fish have shown a definite transition to live bait. If your fishing the cane fish about 20" under a Paradise Popper with a #4 treble and a split shot. Several times lately with the strong tide I have swapped the split shot for a 1/4 ounce clip on weight. This helps the bait stay down in the zone rather than float to the surface. On the rigs I have been using a 1/2 ounce egg on a carolina rig with a #4 treble. AS for trebles, I like the VMC saltwater 4x hook. They are the most durable I have ever seen.

Redfish are all over....bulls on the rigs and sandbars, eaters on the cane and in the passes. Yes, IN THE PASSES! I don't think they will be inside much longer though as this river rises back up a little. Shrimp is the automatic producer, but catching them on jigs has been equally as effective. If you catch ONE, STOP and fish. The fish are definitely schooled and you will most likely catch your limit right there. As an added bonus, the fish are getting BRIGHT gold with all the clean water down in the delta right now. It doesn't make them taste or fight any better, but boy are they PRETTY!

I thought all the lies and misinformation about Venice had died off with all the great reports coming from Venice, but apparently not. I had a customer call the other night worried about his trip for this coming week. He said a guide in Cocodrie had told his friend they were wasting time coming to Venice because off all the freshwater and no fish. HUH!?!?! Your kidding right! Let me tell you.....They spread that kind of stuff around because they cant hang with Venice fishing! They have to use every thing they can think of to try and equalize the DISTINCT advantage that fishing in the lower delta affords its visitors. NO OTHER FISHERIES can boast the day in, day out consistency of the delta.

Take a look at the pictures from this week. The proof is in the pudding....
www.rodnreel.com/reelshot

Saturday, June 21, 2008 @ 8:43:47 AM

Venice, LA USA

Layin the wood!
I have the day off so I figured what better time to catch up on reports. I've been at it for about 10 straight days with up and down results.
The past week has been a challenge as the SE wind has been in full effect. The interesting thing is that even with the wind, clean water has been in abundance. The problem is a slow bite. Not really sure what the fish were thinking but we had to work to produce. Average has been 25-35 trout and the usual limit of reds.

We finally got a break from the wind two days ago and I brought in 60 trout along with a limit of reds. Yesterday was simply fantastic as the conditions got RIGHT and the fish got RIGHT! We had 75 trout along with 15 reds and 4 flounder just to rub it in. What was really impressive was the size of the trout. We had ATLEAST 30 trout over 4 pounds! Biggest was "only" 6 pounds but what an average! EVERY fish was caught on plastic.

The rest of June and into July should be more of the same. Summer fishing in Venice is incredible!

Wednesday, June 11, 2008 @ 10:44:14 AM

Venice, LA USA

Spent most all of last week fishing catch and release for BIG trout.  Never caught anything enormous, but lots of VERY nice fish.  My customer, Sheldon from Virginia, said it would take him 15 years to catch the trout we would catch EACH DAY back home.  I'm not sure I have ever had a customers so dedicated to fishing for trophy fish.  Most folks will get bored if they aren't catching a fish every other cast and want to move.  Not Sheldon, if I told him it was a good spot or he caught a nice one, he would fish it until I picked up to move.

Today and I had Bill Bird and Jerry Porter from GA.  These guys fish with me a couple times a year and always have a great time.  Today wasn't there best ever trip but boy it was a good one!  Almost ALL of our fish were in the 3-5 pound range.  Talk about some nice trout!  Same guys again tomorrow and we'll see how it goes.

Tuesday, June 3, 2008 @ 4:46:48 PM

Venice, LA USA

2=50
Another fabulous day down in the delta. Made a run to a little secret honeyhole today and smoked the trout....and reds! The first 3 fish of the day were 4 pounders....then the bull reds moved in! We must have caught 20 reds in the 20+ pound range in addition to 5 BIG NASTY black drum while trying to pick out the trout. Now thats a problem to have! You cant finish your trout limit because those darn Reds wont leave your bait alone long enough! So goes Venice. Finally got our 50 trout out and headed in with SORE arms and backs. Same group again tomorrow.....

Tuesday, May 27, 2008 @ 2:41:04 PM

Venice, LA USA

HOT VENICE ACTION
Great weather this morning and some great fishing. I had Chuck Gagliano, Ray "silver bullet" King and two of chucks boys. They were not to be disappointed in the venice trout action. 100 trout at 8:15am and lef them biting. When we left, there were 8 boats within a cast of us. Only one of the boats invaded us and actually began casting over our lines. the best part is they were not catching any! WHY??? LIVE SHRIMP UNDER A PARADISE POPPER! Its deadly on these trout.

Saturday, May 24, 2008 @ 11:19:39 AM

Venice, LA USA

Woke up this morning to a HUMMING SE wind.  This was not going to be a trophy trout day! So, we decided to do the next best thing....chase some reds.  I knew even that wouldn't be easy as the tide was high and rising more with the SE wind.  several of us talked at the dock and couldn't decide where to go, so I idled out the marina still undecided.  By the time I was ready to get on plane I had made a decision.  I think it might have been a good one as we found clean water and biting reds.  It only took us two spots and we had a limit of nice reds with a couple trout.  Nothing fancy, but it paid the bills.  Live shrimp under a cork was the ticket.  There were several boats around me with dead bait, which normally will work.  Today however, I was glad I sprung for the live bait.

Friday, May 23, 2008 @ 5:21:36 PM

Venice, LA USA

Woke up this morning and looked outside to see that the flag was DEAD.  I got excited as I was going to fish a spot I had been wanting to get to but couldnt.  Walked in here and pulled up the radar....not too bad.  Got to the marina, pulled the radar up on my phone and....not to good!  Lots of rain coming up from the south.  Hurried up and got ready to leave in order to get as much fishing time as possible.  Went out to my first spot and NOTHING. I was really dissapointed as I thought it would be good.  Made a move a few miles on got on the trout and reds every cast. This lasted for a while and steadily faded.  About the time the bite completely quit the rain was upon us and we headed for higher ground.  Ended the day shy of a limit, but some REALLY nice fish.  There are big trout all over the delta right now.  We've been catching LARGE trout in every direction out of Venice.  Take a look at the pics!

Thursday, May 22, 2008 @ 6:24:19 PM

Venice, LA USA

long day
Ran downriver today in search of trout and reds. Our first stop was a spot I had caught some fish at yesterday late, but the water just wasnt right. Made a short move and got into some action on NICE trout and reds, but it didnt hold together long. That would become the rule of the day as spot after spot would start off with a bang and then fade. Ended up fishing way later than I wanted to, but it was worth it as we put together a VERY nice box of fish. All our trout were were in the 18-24" range, about 35 of them. Had a limit of reds and threw back more bulls than we care to remember. Overall it was great day but we did have to work for them.

Wednesday, May 21, 2008 @ 5:24:37 PM

Venice, LA USA

The follow up
How do you follow up a 9 pounder??? Well I guess you really cant. I had the same guys again today, Kirk, Chip and Ken. These guys are really lucky with there scheduling as last year we had a day at the same spot where we caught 50 trout over 3 pounds, with several in the 7 pound class. Today wasnt quite as good as yesterday, but it was still good. The bite was a little slow at our first stop so we made a move and got on some nice fish. Thats the beauty of Venice, even with the STIFF west wind we ended up with a mighty fine day.

Tuesday, May 20, 2008 @ 4:57:51 PM

Venice, LA USA

Today was something special down here in Venice.  The stars, moon, tide and wind all aligned and the BIG SOW TROUT BIT!  Its been on the verge of going nuts down here, but the winds and rain this week have kept us from going to the big girls.  

Well today was different, we were all able to go to our little honey holes and the Venice Marina dock showed it this evening.  I came in with a trout right at 9 pounds along with 30 more over 4 pounds.  Its was incredible. My big one as all the fish were, was caught on a tightlined opening night jig.  I was fortunate enough this morning to be fishin with long time customers who insist that I fish and enjoy the day with them.  Boy was I glad!  

However, I wasnt the only star today as most all the guides had BIG trout.  In fact almost ALL of them had atleast one fish in the 7 pound class.  Capt. Shane, Capt Allen, Capt Owen etc.....  They all had HAMMERS!  Capt Dan didnt have any monsters, but let me tell you....He had one fine LIMIT of nice trout, but I'm sure he will have his own report in a little while.  The point is, Venice is HOT.

I've been really relaxed with my reports lately and I apologize to those who regularly read them in the past.  Two customers called just last night wondering what was happening because I have not been posting any reports.  well I promise to keep up with a little bit better.  

Monday, May 19, 2008 @ 3:31:12 PM

Venice, LA USA

Fished in the IWFA Ladies Tournament the last two days.  No I'm not a lady!!! I am one of the guides! HAHA  Anyway, this is an all catch and release deal on 8 pound line.  Yesterday we got off to a slow start but finished up strong with 60 redfish caught. Found some fish late and made it work.  Arrived at our spot with about 20 other boats who had also "found" the same fish.  There were only 5 of us in this particular area the first day.  Luckily I got right in my crack and went at it.  My ladies stood on the front of the boat 6:30am until 2pm.  No lunch, No bathroom....just fish after fish.  I was very impressed with the effort they displayed. I was also impressed by the final tally.  Mrs Pat totaled 115 reds and Mrs Connie logged 110 reds.  Thats right, 225 redfish were caught off my boat today!  Final day is tommorow with several of us Huddled at the top of the leader board.  Its anybodies game!

Tuesday, May 6, 2008 @ 7:58:12 PM

Venice, LA USA

Headed out this morning in search of trophy trout.  Got some snickers from the "river is to high and muddy" crowd as you might imagine.  Well first stop yielded about 15 trout from 3-5 pounds.  When that bite played out we made a short run to "catch fish".  Ended the day with a limit of nice downriver fatties.  Havent caught less than 30 trout in weeks!  The summer is going to be AWESOME as VERY few people are venturing out trying to catch trout.  Lots of uncaught trout will be swimming around once the fishing gets "good".  Forgot  my camera so no picture, maybe my guys will post one they took.  All fish were caught on plastic, both tightlined and under a cork.  The fish are there, you just gotta go get em!

Wednesday, April 30, 2008 @ 3:53:21 PM

Venice, LA USA

The place to be!
Sitting here this morning wondering how I am so lucky! For the first time EVER, I have managed to schedule days off on BAD weather days! Normally it doesn't work that way, but I'm not complaining.

Scrolling through the reports makes something very obvious to me. While we have some GREAT fishing in this state, NONE is better than Venice. Despite a stout SE wind and HIGH river conditions fishing was fine in the delta yesterday. Nobody had to resort to catching sheepshead or anything like that. The Venice Marina fish cleaning tables were covered with limits of Redfish and even some NICE trout. The fish are not everywhere like they would normally be this time of year, but a little work and some patience will pay great rewards down in Venice right now.

There has been fog and logs. You need to be CAREFUL, but the river is not this violent frothy cauldron of muddy, debris filled water. When the river is nearly topping the levees in New Orleans it barely reaches the levees down here. Its not NEARLY as dramatic as the media is making it out to be.

Sunday, April 27, 2008 @ 8:00:55 AM

Venice, LA USA

I hope everyone is noticing the reports coming out of Venice lately.  Despite all the high muddy river water fish are being caught.  The Redfish bite is as good as I have ever seen.  So far this WHOLE year, I have caught a limit of reds  EVERYDAY that I have tried.  The trout bite has been a little sporadic, but there are trout to be had.  To go along with the reports from Capt. Dan and Big O, I had 67 SLAB trout on Saturday, DOWNRIVER.  

Now don't get me wrong, you aren't just going to pull up anywhere and catch them.  They are pushed into very isolated little pockets.  The only problem is that to catch the trout, you need the ingredients right...Wind and tide.  Thats been the hardest part.  Despite popular opinion, there is CLEAN water downriver, but the ingredients need to be right.  

In years past we wouldn't look twice if somebody brought a limit of trout to the dock in these conditions.  However, Katrina has changed that.  We have lost our outer layer of cane and marsh that would normally block river water and pool that good saltwater we look for this time of year.  Despite this, the fish aren't going to float to the surface and die!  The fish are still there, still feeding and still spawning.  We just have to look a little closer to find them and be there when they get ready.

The last time the river was at this stage and the spillway was opened was 1997.  If you'll remember back, 98-2002 were PHENOMENAL years on both Lake Ponchartrain and Venice.  Remember those 8-10 pound trout in the early 2000's!  The current events are like spreading fertilizer in a garden!

I realize I have not been posting much lately and my customers have been on me about it!  Some even thought I wasn't fishing because there were no reports.  I guess I am getting lazy these days!  I guess the point of this report is to reassure everyone that the fisheries is fine and don't be scared.

Also, I am attaching a photo of Rick Gilmore and his trophy trout from July of last year.  I never did post the picture and like a proud poppa, Rick reminded me that I had not done so!  Here ya go Rick!  Congratulations again.

Unfortunately I don't have ANY open dates until August(actually have 3 or 4 in July)so if you haven't already scheduled your trip you'll miss out!  Better go ahead and get those late Summer and Fall trips scheduled before those dates are gone.(and most ARE already gone)FOR A REEL SHOT AT THE FISHING TRIP OF A LIFETIME, FISH WITH REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE!

Monday, April 21, 2008 @ 6:34:08 AM

Venice, LA USA

Not many fishing reports right now so I figured I may as well put one up.  
Spent the last few days with some really nice guys out of California....Believe it or not, they aren't all fruits and nuts out there! HAHA   
These guys had fished all over and finally came to Venice last year.  Well fishing all over for them came to a screeching halt.   They now have trips booked into 2009!

Capt. Jeff and I worked this group together and just couldn't have asked for the weather to be any better.  LIght winds, good tide were the rule both days.  Despite the river being high and having the bays muddy the redfish bite did not dissappoint.  My guys caught 40+ reds BOTH DAYS and just had a ball.(as did Capt. Jeff's)  The fish were not all over, and the bite was not fast.  However when you got a bite you could set the anchor and catch 10-12 before moving on.  Nice fun pace and got see some water I havent fished since last year.  

Unfortunatly we didnt get to fish for trout, but you can bet they are out there.  Their time will come SOON!

As the poster below stated, there is a new " NO WAKE" zone posted as you leave Venice Marina.  If you are going downriver, you MUST idol all the way around the corner and clear all the shrimp boats.  In my opinion the Zone is not very well marked but it is there and they are enforcing it.  Also, there are lots of logs in the river right now, PAY ATTENTION.

Tuesday, March 4, 2008 @ 8:36:08 AM

Venice, LA USA

I've had several emails from people asking how we are catching so many redfish this time of year.  Everyone has been trained to believe that this is the worst time of year to fish and you just cant catch fish.  Well I call bull on this.  I have had some GREAT trips in February over the years, especially for Reds.

The first step is to forget about green water.  There isnt much clean water this time of year from the winds and rain.  The water clarity in the areas we are fishing is marginal at best.  About 6-8 inches of clarity.  The second tip is fish the warmer the water.  The warmer water is usually found in the north end of coves.  The river water temperature this past weekend was in the upper 40's to low 50's.  As I came out of the passes and turned north back into the coves of the bays the temperature began to rise.  The water we were fishing was 60.1 degrees!  

While the bigger Bulls generally roam the open flats out in the coves, the eating size "schoolies" are next to and even IN the cane.  The key is to fish along until you get a bite.  Stop.  Make everyone cast into the area.  IF you get some more bites or hook up, set the anchor and wait.  The more you catch the more it turns the others on and draws them in.  Nothing, I say NOTHING is better than dead shrimp this time of year.  However, this weekend, we didnt need it.  A popping cork with a 3/8 head about 20 inches deep with a purple or black cocahoe was all that was needed.  I also find that you shouldnt "pop" the cork as much this of year. Fish a little slower and with a little less action.

As the month wears on we will begin picking up some trout while looking for the reds.  This is when you start looking out to the flats for the first run of spring trout...but thats a whole other story.  Hope this helps some of you catch more Reds in future winters.

REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE 985-969-810

Wednesday, February 13, 2008 @ 8:53:25 AM

Venice, LA USA

Made the first fishing trip of the year this weekend.  Was supposed to fish Friday-Sunday but had to have Capt. Raymond take my spot on Friday as I was SICK.  I think that was the first time since I have been in business that I couldnt make a charter due to being sick.  

Made it down to Venice On Friday evening feeling good enough to fish.  The weather was as nice as you could possibly imagine for February!  I mean it was NICE!  Our guys were looking for a Redfish bite so thats what we did.  Our first stop in a little bay that traditionally holds plenty of reds this time of year got us on the board.  Caught several eaters and one about 24 pounds which proved to be the biggest of the day. I decided to leave the area and check some more spots.  Hit two spots with a couple fish, and then we REALLLLY hit them!  Found a school up against the cane and it was every cast for as long as your arms could take it.  Finally Mr. Johnny put his rod on the holder and said, "you done wore and old man out! Lets head in!".  So back up to Venice Marina we headed.

On Sunday I had another group from Ohio.  These guys had read an article in the newspaper that Ms. Susan Gros and I had done with a writer from the L.A. Times.  The article was picked up by about 30 newspapers around the country and these guys happened to notice it and booked a trip with us.  Redfish was on the menu for these fellas as well.  

Went back to the spot where we had caught them the day before and never got a bite.  I began slowly working up the bank and after an hour, not one bite!  I knew they had just moved down the bank somewhere so we didnt panic, just keep on plugging.  Finally got a bite and something told me to slow up for a minute and give the spot some time.  GOOD IDEA!  For the next 5 hours they caught redfish on EVERY cast(unless they missed him).  I'm not sure if I have ever seen a redfish bite last so long.  Capt. Jeff came over and side by side did the same thing.  It was like there was no end to the redfish in the spot.  Finally about 1pm the guys decided they had caught enough!  None of them had EVER seen anything like it before.

Late winter into early spring is a VERY underrated time of year to fish.  Redfish action is second to none and The trout action will be on FIRE in March.  The best month of trout fishing I have ever had was in MARCH 3 years ago!  Yes MARCH.  Sometimes you have to work around the weather, but it can be GREAT.

For a REEL SHOT at the fishing trip of a lifetime, book with REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE 985-969-0810  www.rodnreel.com/reelshot

Tuesday, February 12, 2008 @ 8:46:28 AM

Venice, La, LA USA

Judging from the calls and emails I have been getting I figured it must be time to throw a post up before. I'm not sick, dead or out of business! HAHA Well I guess maybe I am little sick with hunting fever! Between my land in Mississippi and Texas I have been hard to find.

With hunting season beginning to wind down its time to start thinking about fishing. Actually MANY of you have already been thinking about it. Thanks to your support I have already closed the books on April, May and June! This is going to be as busy a season as I have ever had.

Right now I have no idea what this year holds for us. Last year the winds really hit us hard. I would have to say that last year was the worst year I have been through as far as weather is concerned. We still caught MANY limits but boy we had to work hard to stay on the bite and find new ones when the winds shifted. Luckily I have many friends down in the delta and this kept a steady flow of new info coming in. I dont care how good you are, your that much better when you have good friends who are also good fisherman. It also helps when you launch in a place like Venice. Day in and day out the most consistent fishing ANYWHERE. Despite my complaining about the weather, as all fishing guides do, my customers enjoyed streaks of 21 straight days with trout limits and quite a few fish over the 7 pound mark.

Just like it seems to always happen the big girl got away last year. The largest trout that I know we had on last year was hooked by Jerry Porter of Georgia. He and his partner Bill Bird fished with me for three days in early May. The first two days were nothing short of PHENOMENAL. Limits both days with EVERY fish over three pounds up to the low seven pound range. On the final day we went back to the same spot but with higher winds. We made several drifts in 2-3 footers catching one here and there on Catch 5 Mirrolures. Jerry then hooked a fish that was MUCH larger than the 7 pounders of the previous days. In my opinion she was WELL over 9 pounds. It was one of the largest Trout I have ever seen hooked. Jerry did EVERYTHING right, loosening his drag, keeping the fish off the surface, clearing the engine. And then it happened. As she swam past the boat I could see she was hooked only by the front hook and the rear hook was just dangling. As she stripped drag and circled the front of the boat, the rear hook grabbed the TIP of the trolling motor blade as I was lifting it out of the water! AHHHHHH!!!! Just like that she was gone.....

Latter on in the summer, July to be exact, Rick Gilmore of Mississippi had a dream come true. Rick is a great angler and has fished allot along the coast and at the islands. Despite all his efforts he had never caught a true trophy trout. Well that all ended in late July when Rick landed the largest trout of his 30+ year fishing career. She was a beauty just shy of 8 pounds! I wish all of you could have seen the RELIEF on his face that he had finally achieved his goal. It HONESTLY was a special moment.

I suppose the ultimate bite however was one day in early June when Mike Holly of Hammond brought his son down for a "day" of speck fishing. Our "day" was done before 7am!! It was so early that I REFUSED to bring them back in. I cut the corks off and they caught trout on topwater in 20 feet of water until the bite finally died off. As they would reel one fish in 2,3,4 more would follow them up the boat! It was INSANITY!

For those of you who love REDFISH I have many stories about them as well. On several days we caught and released 100+ from ONE SPOT! My first trip of the year in February last year yielded 75 trout with one going 6 pounds. Day two for this group saw a MONSTER front coming through that shut down most of the north. Well we proceeded to catch 100+ redfish while Capt. Jeff was sitting next to us and ALSO caught 100+ redfish. Thats over 200 redfish from one spot....IN FEBRUARY!

I guess I could also tell the story of the day I went to catch trout first and reds second and the redfish were in the trout spot and the trout were in the redfish hole! We arrived and the BULL REDS were OBNOXIOUS! I'm talking 20+ pounds every cast....EVERY CAST! After two hours and two men DRENCHED in sweat, they put their rods down and declared "NO MAS". I suppose they caught 25+ bulls A PIECE! Then we went and caught us a limit of Venice trout.

Please understand that these are highlights and not the way it goes everyday. The point is, when you fish in Venice the fishing trip of a lifetime could be ANY day.

Like I said earlier, I have no idea what this year holds yet. Only one thing is for sure...IT WILL BE BUSY! I am about to go pick up my 2008 24ft Champion Bay with 250 Yammy 4 stroker. All new Shimano equipment, Old Bayside Paradise poppers, deadly dudely's, mirrolures and power pro line will all be provided on the boat, as usual, free of charge. Fish cleaning will still be provided free of charge. Our lodge is rolling and ready for groups up to 20! Basic lodging and FOOD can be arranged.

Don't let the few dates I have left through the year slip away. Give yourself a REEL SHOT at the fishing trip of a lifetime. Book a trip with REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE.

A special thanks to all of you out there over the years that have come down and fished with me and my associates. We very much appreciate your business and look forward to seeing ALL OF YOU that have already rebooked for this year.

Thursday, January 24, 2008 @ 12:49:32 PM

Venice, LA USA

I haven't posted in a long time, mainly because I have been BOOKED SOLID and just havent had the time to keep up.  Now i am hunting and fogetting about fishing until next year.  However, there is an event I wanted to make you all aware of as it is very important.  A close friend of mine is putting on a charity event for a young man who is paralyzed from a high school football injury.  I am one of the Captains sponsoring this event and it will be held on April 5.  This is very similar to the Kyle Couvilion deal as there will be a one day event with 20-30 boats involved.  The ticket is a chance to be drawn to be on one of these boats.  For tickets contact DB at his number listed below of Capt. Jeff Fuscia at 504-382-5488
This is DB's report:

Good Times Bad Times
Ok folks now its time to tell you about our Bad times we have going on here in Ponchatoula. I hope I am smart enough to post a picture that was sent to me as a email just so you will beable to see the man I will be talking about. His name is Bryce McKenny #88 in your program an #1 in our heart. Bryce broke his neck in a JV Football game two weeks ago an is paralyzed from chest down. He is going to have tough time from here on out an his family is in NEED OF HELP for a long time to come. You can go online an pull up
"Ponchatoula High School" then work your way through the football program, an it will have a lot about Brice an his family there for you to read. Now were we come in to play is I have spoke to Mrs. Susan Gras, an 17 Captians who have already agreed to help me do something like we ALL did for Kyle Couvion, an that is to put on a Inshore Fishing Tourny, with the same type of raffel. I hope to get 20 to 30 boats an have a one day tourny down in Venice, an I need your help pulling it off. We are talking about having the tourny sometime in March are April next year , that way we can set a day aside on our calender for Bryce an his family. We dont have all the details worked out yet, but heck we just got this kicked off yesterday an alredy I have like I said 17 Captians ready an willing. I can be reached at 985 969 0408, are dbbuilders1@yahoo.com, with any ideas are offers of help you can do to help make this a success for Bryce an his family. We are having a meeting with the Boosters Club tonight at 7 pm. As we come up with more I will be passing it on here on the Sportsman. Thanks in advance for what ever you Guys an Gals are willing to do, keep Bryce an family in your prayers. Thanks Dennis Bardwell

Thursday, December 20, 2007 @ 11:50:30 AM

Venice, LA USA

hard and fast
Yesterday morning was one of those mornings that you dream about. Slick calm, moderate tide, super clean water and SPECKLED TROUT SMACKING THE SURFACE IN EVERY DIRECTION!

Got an EARLY start to avoid the crowds and heat. Got a wild hair and went to a spot that I didnt originally plan on when I woke up. But boy did it pay off! As we arrived we were greeted by trout smacking shrimp on the surface, IN EVERY DIRECTION! Could have easily caught them on topwater, but we had corks tied on and NOBODY wanted to take time to switch. The cork hit the water and almost immediately would go under. Many times the fish would chase the shrimp to the surface and hit the shrimp AND cork in one swath! And this was 10 feet from the boat! They were just tossing the bait right over the side! At 6:40AM we had a limit of trout almost entirely over 2 pounds. We caught and released for a couple hours as there was NO WAY I was hauling them back to the dock that early! The picture is of the biggest we caught and was landed by Michael Holly of Hammond. Fortunately for the fish we already had a limit and she was released to grow even bigger. Decided not to even weight her so the fish story could grow bigger and bigger!

I cant guarantee trips like this every day, but I will give you a REEL SHOT at the fishing trip of a lifetime.
REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE 985-969-0810

Saturday, July 7, 2007 @ 9:22:34 AM

Venice, LA USA

Today we have a three boat trip with our good friend Gabe Prey.  Gabe owns several Sonic Drive Inns and he brought all of this managers and assistants down for a 4th of July fishing trip. Capt. Dan Dix, Jeff Fuscia and myself had the task of getting these guys on some fish.  None of them except Gabe and Mark fish very much.  Two of my guys had NEVER fished Saltwater before and the other only a few times.  My first stop produced 5 quick fish and then nothing.  Capt. Jeff called and said they were on a good bite so we left and joined in.  Got there and caught a few but I was never really in the "crack" and then the other boats quite catching as well.  I made a short run to another favorite spot and got on them.  Called Jeff over and even Capt. Big O joined.  Finished up at 11am with a limit of 75 nice trout.  All fish caught under corks with live shrimp over a muddy shell bottom.  I dont know what all the other boats finished with, but they have already booked their trip for next year!  Even though these guys were inexperienced we worked with them and THEY caught their own fish.  I'm not going to sit on the front of the boat and catch YOUR fish.

I dont have many dates left for the rest of the year so if think you want to come get a piece of this action, get on the phone or shoot me an email.  I GUARANTEE a REEL SHOT at the fishing trip of a lifetime.  985-969-0810

Wednesday, July 4, 2007 @ 9:00:59 PM

Venice, LA USA

I had an impressive string of consecutive days with limits going, but today I gladly gave it up in order to entertain these youngsters.  Mr. A.T. Green brought his son Jason and grandkids down to Venice to enjoy some fishing and show the boys the outdoors.  Mr. A.T. is Capt. Scott Avanzinos paw in law and they make the trip to fish with Jeff and me every year.

Every year when they show up, the thunderstorms do too!  Finally this year was different.  We had beautiful weather and some pretty dang good fishing.  These boys are young and only fish once a year but they make up for it with enthusiasm! Take a look at todays pics and we'll be back at again tommorow.
The kids are Patrick, Noah, William and Alexander.

Monday, July 2, 2007 @ 12:24:55 PM

Venice, LA USA

OH MY!!!  Fishing in Venice is RED HOT.  As I said in my report yesterday, I planned on taking my youngest brother out fishing today as a reward for all the work he has been doing.  Also tagging along was Lydia the Trout Assassin.  Lydia works at the marina and probly has waited on you before if you've been down here.

The wind was a little stiff and out of the wrong direction for where I have been fishing.  Took off and went a totally different direction and fished on of my favorite rigs.  I havent fished it this year yet so I was anxious to test it out.  Pulled up and dropped the anchor right in the "crack".  Thats when Lydia informed me that we should be closer to the rig! How many times have you EVER fished here?  Well about that time her pole was bent in two and the arguement was over! HAHA

For the next 2 hours it was a fish EVERY cast.  Even the old Capitano got in on the action.  Out of all the limits I have reported lately, I have probably caught about 10 fish over the past 2 weeks.  I like to allow my customers to catch their own fish.

A couple of times I just sat back and watched as Lydia and Jon were in a free for all in the bottom of the boat trying to get the fish unhooked and baits back in the water.  At 8:30 we ahd our 75 trout and went to look for some reds.  Yep you guessed it, MORE TROUT!  Caught two reds and began throwing back 3 pound trout!  

We are loaded up with fish down here in the Delta right now. Oh wait....we are ALWAYS loaded up with fish down here!  Come fish the Mississippi river delta, where you will have a REEL SHOT at the fishing trip of a lifetime.

REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE 985-969-0810

BTW, Jeff and I always make it a point to take care of those who take care of us.  At one point or another we have taken many of the workers at Venice Marina fishing. Show them a little appreciation and I promise they will be much happier to see you next time.

Sunday, July 1, 2007 @ 4:38:13 PM

Venice, LA USA

This morning was more of the same.  The size dropped off a little bit, but 75 is still 75!  For the third day in a row we fished the same spot, same technique, and the same bite!  Hey if it aint broke dont fix it!  Elmo Keller brought his son and brother in Law with him to experience this fine Venice fishing.  To bad Ronald couldnt make it!  He missed out!
Tommorow I am going to take my youngest brother out as he has been working for me here at the Lodge and hasnt fished at all.  Monday starts with a FULL week of customers again.
REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE 985-969-0810

Saturday, June 30, 2007 @ 10:43:54 AM

Venice, LA USA

Yesterday was almost as good as it gets.  The only thing that could have been any better would have been if we had an 8 pounder!  Finally fished the same spot twice and it was a good call.  75 FATTIES by 9:30am.  As was the case on Thursdays report, live shrimp under a PARADISE POPPER fished over the oysters did the trick.  Getting an early start has been key.  The fish are biting like PARAHNAS until 7 and then slowing way down.
REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE 985-969-0810

Saturday, June 30, 2007 @ 10:36:22 AM

Venice, LA USA

Its been like pulling teeth to get me on here to post a report lately!  So much going on down here in the Delta its hard to find time.
 
Fishing has been OUTSTANDING!  REALLY, OUTSTANDING!  My customers have caught a limit of trout on virtually every morning for the past two weeks.  Even better you say?  They arent on just one spot.  I have not fished the same spot two days in a row during that span.  Every morning I have gone to a different spot and WHAM!  Trout flopping all around the boat.  Many of my customers think that May is the best month of the year, and for good reason.(I have May of NEXT YEAR already booked solid)  However, June is quit possibly my favorite month.  

This morning I was joined by my wifes cousins and one of their business associates.  They were not to be disappionted!  Pulled up to the first stop and never left the area.  100 BEAUTIFUL trout iced down by 8:30am.  Made a few stops for some reds and headed in to clean up.  All fish caught on LIVE SHRIMP over oysters.  Ihave several photos Ihave not posted yet, so sit back and enjoy.

When you cant stand it any longer, pick up that phone and give yourself a REEL SHOT at the fishing trip of a lifetime!

REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE 985-969-0810

Thursday, June 28, 2007 @ 3:47:23 PM

Venice, LA USA

First of all let me  apologize for not having a picture.  I dont know what I was thinking!

Friday evening the Priddy clan arrived at the lodge for their Saturday morning trip.  Knowing the marina would be a CIRCUS I got bait Friday evening and we gone from the marina before they even opened.  Arrived at our first spot before daylight and began catching nice trout instantly.  This was the first time I had fished this particular spot this year, so I was relieved!  This also happened to be the first spot I EVER fished out of Venice.  Thats been many moons ago, but it still produces although it looks DRASTICALLY different.  Well long story short we had a limit of trout around 8am and went to look for some Reds. Hit a couple of spots, caught a few and the guys had about all they could take.  Ran back to Venice Marina and cleaned the fish.  While I was cleaning and bagging fish, the guys went back to the lodge, showered and cooled down.  Iced the fish down with the aid our 1000 pound Hoshizaki ice machine and sent 3 VERY happy guys home.

Folks if your not fishing Venice, then your missing out.  Plain and simple.

REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE 985-969-0810

Sunday, June 17, 2007 @ 11:09:11 AM

Venice, LA USA

Today I had my good friends Curtis Franklin and Ryan Pruett.  These guys fish on there own and also book with me. Over the years, we have had some FANTASTIC trips.  This morning DID NOT look like one of them!  After 4 stops and 4 fish we needed a change.  Made a call, got the info I needed and took off.  30 minutes later we pulled up to the spot and HAMMERED them.....ON TOPWATER!!!  In a hour and a half we caught a limit of NICE trout all on topwater.  It was allot of fun to say the least.  Thanks to Capt. Larry Averitt for the info that helped me save my day.  You cant do all on your own every day.

REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE 985-969-0810

Thursday, June 14, 2007 @ 1:19:21 PM

Venice, LA USA

Today I had Danny, Andy and Mike from the Ponchatoula Area.  They came in last night and we fed them GOOD here at the lodge.  Woke up this morning from a good nights sleep to less than stellar conditions.  The bouy was showing southeast at over 30 then switch to the west at 20!  It was not pretty!  In addition a huge squall line come over!  Made a few stops without much luck.  Changed areas a little and got em goin! Ended up with a limit of trout and almost a limit of reds.  I guess we were pretty lucky as the reports i got from everyone else were DISMALL. No matter the weather, you always have a chance when your fising in VENICE!

REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE 985-969-0810

Wednesday, June 13, 2007 @ 8:35:04 PM

Venice, LA USA

Yesterday
Yesterday was day two for Allen Stansfield and his dad. We went out with the intentions of beating the heat and that just what we did. We were fishing as the sun came up to the east and had a limit of fine trout iced down by 8:30. Caught some reds for Langiappe and called it day so they could head back to Mississippi. REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE 985-969-0810

Wednesday, June 13, 2007 @ 8:00:23 PM

Venice, LA USA

Fishing out of Venice continues to be FANTASTIC.  The last two days I had Mr. Eddie Gummelt and his grandson Grant from Waco Tx. We went after quality rather than numbers, but still ended up with 35 trout the first day and 50 the next.  Half of our fish were over 4 pounds and quite a few were over 5.  

Today I had Allen Stansfield and his dad down from Ms. Our first stop was BULL RED fiasco.  EVERY CAST!  After about 10 apiece up to 30 pounds they were soaked with sweat and needed a break.  Made a little run to catch some trout and had a limit in 45 minutes.  Nothing huge, but nothing small either.  

I have some pics but honestly I'm so tred  dont feel like going to the boat and getting my camera!  It was HOT out there today!

Fishing will be like this the rest of the summer and fall.  Dont miss out as most days are already gone.  Give me a call and lets go CATCHING.

For a REEL SHOT at the fishing trip of a lifetime, book with REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE 985-969-0810

Monday, June 11, 2007 @ 8:25:22 PM

Venice, LA USA

WINDY FATTIES
Boy it sure was nice to wake up and see the wind had layed.....some trees down that is! 25mph ALL DAY! Lucky for me and my customers it was from just the right direction to allow me to fish a spot I have been waiting on. Got out there and ALL THE BAIT DIED! I couldnt believe it. I told the guys that one of the best limits I ever caught was with dead shrimp at this particualar spot. Well it wasnt fast and furrious but it was steady. We ended up with about 50 trout with 6-7 being over 5 pounds. Some REALLY PRETTY FISH! Despite TERRIBLE winds, VENICE STILL PRODUCES! FOR A REEL SHOT AT THE FISHING TRIP OF A LIFETIME, BOOK A TRIP WITH REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE 985-969-0810

Thursday, June 7, 2007 @ 4:51:31 PM

Venice, LA USA

Way Behind
Its usually a good sign that its been TOO LONG since you put up a report when your customers call and ask if everything is O.K. because they havent been seeing any reports. I got behind a few weeks ago and just havent spent the time to catch up. I've had the last few days off so I've been relaxing. Now its time to get back to work! Well here goes!

As we all know the fishing has been TOUGH with all the wind. Thats not to say that nobody is catching fish. Many Guides are still catching fish despite the insistent winds. I've done pretty good myself, but I've also had some BAD days. The problem for us down in Venice is that the East winds have primarily kept us fishing the west side of the river. Last year the west side was HOT, this year, very inconsistent. This has made it very difficult for us to get to the best fish. But like I always say, a bad day in Venice is usually better than a good day elsewhere.

An average day on the west side this year has been 25-30 trout and a limit of reds. Some big reds, but mostly 14-18 inch trout. On the few days we have sneaked over to the east limits or near limits of trout have been common with some 5 pounders. Live Shrimp has been the bait of choice as tough conditions call for EVERY advantage possible.

For the most part, the fish are out off the points, 200+ yards in some cases. I know there are fish on the rigs as well but not many inshore guides have access to a 36' Contender to get to them! The winds are forcasted to break this weekend. In fact it blowing 2knts at SW pass right now! While the weather may have slowed us some in May, that just means there are more fish for June and July!

I've got quite a few pics that I have not posted, so take a look, enjoy and lets go catch some fish this summer!

******CANCELLATION FOR THIS FRIDAY JUNE 8. GIVE ME A CALL ASAP AND LETS GO!!!!*****************

FOR A REEL SHOT AT A FISHING TRIP OF A LIFETIME, BOOK WITH REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE 985-969-0810

Wednesday, June 6, 2007 @ 10:43:31 AM

Venice, LA USA

Hog Heaven
This morning did not start out very good. I took off and went to a spot I KNEW was going to be bad. Let me tell you, we got BLEW UP! I made a 1 hour run in a totally different direction. Pulled up and it was HAMMER TIME. We boxed 50 trout and not one, I said, NOT ONE was under three pounds!!! I've caught some FINE boxes of trout down here in the delta but I dont know if I have ever caught that many and not had one under three pounds. It was INCREDIBLE. I knew a mule was coming, and we did catch two just under 7 pounds and a few more in the low 6's, but not monsters. But I guess beauty is in the eye of the beholders, to many these were monsters! All fish caught tight lining plastics. At it again tommorow......
www.rodnreel.com/reelshot

Wednesday, May 9, 2007 @ 8:53:25 PM

Venice, LA USA

Weekend Report
What a Weekend! I had Charles Gagliano, part of the "silver bullet" gang and some newbees they brought along. They arrived on Friday night and enjoyed our accommodations.

We woke up early Saturday morning and headed down to the marina. We got ready to leave and the fog just blew in on us. We played it safe, unlike MANY, and waited a little while. When I felt it was safe, Big O(who was helping me with the cahrter) headed downriver. Our first stop did it! I was trolling into a point that produces allot of fish when I got ONE bite. I stopped anchored and the HARVEST began. By 9am we had 100 trout iced down. Nothing huge, but NO throwbacks. When I got ready to leave, I looked up to see 16 boats surrounding me! INCREDIBLE!! I must say though that they all kept there distance and did not harm us in anyway. Nonetheless I dont like fishing crowds! Made several stops for reds only catching about 10 and we called it a day. Big O also had 100 trout for the others in the group.

Day two for the guys ended in the same results, but getting there was a little different. It took us SEVERAL stops to get in on the bite, but when we hitem we hitem!! We went from 10 trout to 100 trout in a little over an hour! Big O found them and called us over. Teamwork pays off!

Fishing is just UNREAL right now. This past week I cleaned 500 trout! Thats just sick! Unfortunately, I dont have any immediate openings, but if you want to get in on some GREAT Summer/Fall action, you better call and book it now.

REEL SHOT GUIDE SERVICE 985-969-0810
www.rodnreel.com/reelshot

Monday, May 7, 2007 @ 9:53:20 AM

Venice, LA USA

Running out of titles!!!
I'm at a loss of words. I have run out of ways to make my reports descriptive as the trout action in Venice is the same every day.....LIMITS!!! Went out to Gorillaville early to try and snag a big momma. It took us a while but I got my guys on a bite and caught about 20 nice trout. During the process we witness Capt. Jeff's boat land a 8.8 pound trout with 50 yards of us! Talk about a HOG!! Well the bite stopped as the tide switched, my guys got restless and wanted to see some action. Made a stop where I had caught some fish a day or so ago and didnt even get a bite. Moved about 2 miles to a little secret crack and caught our final 80 in no time.

Folks I dont what else to say. The fishing in Venice is nothing short of fantastic as nearly all the guides are catching limits. Venice is home to the most consistent year round fishing....PERIOD.

www.rodnreel.com/reelshot

Thursday, May 3, 2007 @ 8:30:06 PM

Venice, LA USA

And yet another
As I have come to expect down here in Venice, it was another great day. Left the dock in DEAD calm winds and arrived at Gorillaville to 2-3 footers. We stuck it out for a few hours only catching about a dozen trout, BUT....they were the RIGHT ones. We had one over 7 pounds and another that would have been WELL over 8 wrap around the trolling motor. As the tide switched we decided to make a move and find some calmer water. Made one stop and finished off 75 trout and headed for the barn. The big trout were caught on the Catch 5 Mirrolure and the "schoolies" were on a combo of live shrimp and plastics under PARADISE POPPERS.
Nothing open right now until the end of June, but some prime summer dates are open. Wanna go catch trophy trout on the rigs!?!?!?! Summer is the time. Also, fall fishing is as good as it gets. Its like fishing in May except in the river and passes!! Dont miss out.
www.rodnreel.com/reelshot

Wednesday, May 2, 2007 @ 9:16:37 PM

Venice, LA USA

another limit
Went out to the "mama hole" and it was off. Made a short run and got on a good steady bite. In an hour or so we iced 50 trout and decided to run back out to gorillaville. Still a no go so I decided to go ahead and finish off the limit. Made a couple of stops and got on the fish. Caught the last 25 and left them biting. Ended the day wuth 75 trout and 1 red that we kept. www.rodnreel.com/reelshot

Tuesday, May 1, 2007 @ 8:33:00 PM

Venice, LA USA

today
Today was pretty much the same, but even better quality. Had a limit before 9 and started releasing. We were trying to cull through and find a 7+ but the best we could do was 6.5. Today I had 7 gallons of fillet and we threw back all the biggest fish! Venice is the place to be right now! www.rodnreel.com/reelshot

Monday, April 30, 2007 @ 9:21:38 PM