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Fishing At Atchafalaya Basin In 2024

AKA: Atchafalaya Swamp

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By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, redear sunfish, warmouth and paddlefish at Atchafalaya Basin in Louisiana.

Atchafalaya Basin, LA

A virtual fish factory, the Atchafalaya Basin is a 596,000-acre swampland/river with more channels, bayous, coves, canals, lakes, pockets and other hiding places for fish and baitfish. Located in south-central Louisiana, west of Baton Rouge, this vast area has a gazillion miles of shoreline to explore and fish.

The purpose of this page is to deliver an overview of this lake, the fishing options, and area amenities. Our goal is to provide info to first time visitors, as well as beginner and novice anglers. We gathered details from personal experience, numerous trusted websites, and videos of fishing activity on the lake. These websites include the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, marinas at the lake, campgrounds, boat rental agencies and others. By consolidating this information to one page it allows visitors to see the entire picture, all in one place.

Lake Video

The Atchafalaya Basin is an expansive wetland in south-central Louisiana, known as the largest river swamp in the United States. The basin offers an excellent opportunity for fishing enthusiasts seeking to explore its diverse and unique ecosystem. With its vast network of bayous, lakes, and backwaters, the Atchafalaya Basin provides a rich habitat for a variety of fish species, making it a popular destination for anglers from across the region.

Among the popular fish species found in the Atchafalaya Basin is the largemouth bass. Anglers flock to this area to test their skills in catching these prized gamefish. The labyrinth of waterways and vegetation in the basin offers plenty of ideal spots for bass fishing, creating an exciting and challenging experience for anglers of all levels.

In addition to largemouth bass, the Atchafalaya Basin is also home to several other sought-after species, including channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, and redear sunfish. These panfish species provide ample opportunities for anglers to have a successful and enjoyable fishing trip.

The Atchafalaya Basin is not just a fishing paradise but also a place of exceptional ecological importance. Its diverse ecosystem is home to a wide variety of wildlife and serves as a vital nursery for numerous fish species and migratory birds. As such, visitors are encouraged to practice responsible and sustainable fishing practices to help preserve this valuable natural resource for future generations to enjoy.

Local LA fishing guides who know these waters offer guide trips as a great way to learn the basics of this unique fishery. Known for amazing bass fishing at times, the Atchafalaya Basin actually has pretty good fishing for other species as well. Crappie, sunfish, paddlefish and catfish also reside here and grow big and fat in this fertile water. There are numerous improved boat launch ramps as well as many primitive places for launching fishing boats, kayaks, canoes and jon boats.

Fishing Boats For Rent In Louisiana

Primary fish species residing in Atchafalaya Basin

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Largemouth bass Channel catfish Black crappie White crappie Bluegill Redear Sunfish Warmouth Sunfish Paddlefish

Atchafalaya Basin Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NEARBY
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity in the Atchafalaya Basin, and many anglers prefer using boats to access remote fishing spots and explore the unique waterways of this vast wetland. Additionally, the area is open to camping, allowing fishing enthusiasts to immerse themselves fully in the natural beauty and tranquility of the basin while enjoying an extended fishing adventure.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Champagne's Cajun Swamp Tours
Rentals: Kayaks
337 230-4068

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Atchafalaya Basin Bridge Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid basin, off Atchafalaya Basin Bridge, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Bayou Chene Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid basin, off Par Road 169, this is a one-lane, natural ramp with gravel parking.

Bayou Courtableau Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid basin, northwest area, off Front Street, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Berwick Atchafalaya River Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid basin, off Bellview Front Street, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Butte La Rose Atchafalaya River Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid basin, off Parish Road 442, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Charenton Beach Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid basin, off Par Road 121, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Catahoula Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid basin, off Par Road 169, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Darbonne Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid basin, northern area, off Spillway Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Grand Avoille Cove Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid basin, off W Atchafalaya Basin Spillway Levee, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Jesse B. Hayes Jr. Memorial Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid basin, off Hayes Lane, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with docks and gravel parking.

Krotz Springs Atchafalaya River Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid basin, northern area, off Boat Ramp Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Krotz Springs Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid basin, northern area, off Atchafalaya Loop, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Myette Point Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid basin, off Martin Ridge Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Parc des Ponts Breaux Teche Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid basin, off St Bernard Street, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Whiskey Bay Atchafalaya Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid basin, off Whiskey Bay Highway, this is a one-lane, earthen ramp with gravel parking.

Click here for a Louisiana Fishing License.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Frenchman's Wilderness Campground - 337 228-2616

Lake Fausse Pointe State Park Campground - 337 229-6173

Cajun Palms RV Resort - 337 667-7772

LA RV Park - 225 721-3034

I-49 RV Park - 337 662-5545

Atchafalaya Basin LA Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

Atchafalaya Basin Information
Frenchman's Wilderness Campground
2026 Atchafalaya River Hwy
Breaux Bridge, LA 70517
337 228-2616

 

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