Louisiana's fishing guides are important in more ways than one.
Why Louisiana's Charter Captains are Important
There is more to this website than teaching people how to fish. It's also about the bigger picture of Louisiana's inshore fishing.
There's a BIG Problem
There is a big problem we have here in Louisiana: we are not known for our inshore fishing.
Okay, maybe I can re-phrase that to "We are not as well known for our inshore fishing as we are for other things."
A Glimpse Into Global Opinion
I used to work at a swamp tour from 2015-2016. I'd take tourists to show them the swamp and marsh just outside of Westwego.
The same thing always came up
Tourists were always interested in Hurricane Katrina and the BP Oil Spill.
Apparently these two events are what define Louisiana in their minds. This is shocking to me.
Why can't we be known for more positive things? Like our incredible fishing?
One can literally catch a largemouth bass and yellowfin tuna, from the same launch, from the same boat and in the same day in Louisiana.
This was a wonderful opportunity for me. I loved showing guests how beautiful and rich our wetlands still are, and always thanked them for visiting.
It's a Tough Battle
I know swaying public opinion is tough. All I can do is go fishing, post pictures and write here in the hopes that one day someone from outside our niche will see it and think "Wow, how awesome is that? I didn't know this about Louisiana!"
This endeavor is easier with allies. Those allies are Louisiana's fishing guides.
Ambassadors of LA Inshore Fishing
I feel that charter captains (or fishing guides) are ambassadors of our great fishery. That's why they are so important to me.
They take out clients, put them on a good time, and those clients go home with a great story to tell about their awesome catch. That's the best marketing there is!
When Guides Win, We All Win
That people have something besides Katrina to say about Louisiana is great. We want people to know our fishing is great, so they come here and enjoy themselves.
When that happens, they spend money at local restaurants, marinas, etc. and stimulate the economy. This is no secret.
That's why I market our charter captains in my articles and podcasts.
Inshore Interviews is an excellent medium to get to know charter captains long before you ever book with one.
It's my way of getting their voice heard on a platform not found anywhere else.
In fact, here are three random episodes featuring Louisiana fishing guides:
1. Episode 16 - Captain Rob Dupont
Not Just Louisiana Natives
There is a large number of guides and tournament anglers who come to the Boot State each year to flesh out their living, and bring attention to Louisiana's awesome fishing in a whole new way.
Here are a few of those episodes as well:
They're Great People
Fishing guides are people who work hard each day to serve customers. They're not just guides, but also marinas, tackle stores, commercial fishermen and more.
They put Louisiana in a positive light every time they provide a customer with a great experience.
They have devoted their lives to Louisiana's wetlands. They have awesome stories to tell and are great friends to make.
Just another reason to come say hi and enjoy a fishing trip!
How You can Book with a Guide Right Now
On each podcast page there is a set of show notes detailing how to get in touch with that guide. There is a phone number and usually a Facebook page or website they take bookings from as well.
Tight lines, y'all!
