Today, September 29, 2024, is shaping up to be a great day for fishing in the Gulf of Mexico around New Orleans. Here’s what you need to know:

### Weather and Tides
The weather is looking calm with variable winds less than 5 knots, becoming northeast at 10 knots in the afternoon. Seas are expected to be 3 feet or less, making for a smooth ride on the water.

Sunrise is at 6:54 AM, and sunset will be at 6:43 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to catch some fish.

### Tidal Conditions
The tidal conditions are moderate, which is ideal for both bottom fishing and casting into the shallows. The best time to begin fishing for speckled trout is when the tide is falling, especially when it's falling hard.

### Fish Activity
Yesterday saw a lot of activity from Redfish, Sheepshead, and speckled trout. The speckled trout are still in their transition phase from the outside of the marsh to the inside, so you can find them in various spots like the rigs and beaches of Grand Isle, as well as closer in places like Martello Castle in Lake Borgne.

Redfish and Sheepshead have been biting well, especially in the inshore marshes and channels off Venice and around Lake Pontchartrain and Biloxi Marsh.

### Types and Amounts of Fish
Expect to catch a good number of speckled trout, with many in the 20-inch range. Redfish are also plentiful, known for their hard fighting and delicious taste. Sheepshead, Flounder, and Black Drum are also active in these waters.

### Best Lures and Bait
For speckled trout, using live baits like shrimp or mullet can be very effective. Artificial lures such as spoons and plastic jigs also work well, especially in the shallower waters. For Redfish, live baits like crabs or shrimp are excellent choices, while artificial lures like gold spoons can also attract them.

### Hot Spots
One of the best spots to try is Chef Pass between Lakes Pontchartrain and Borgne. This area sees a lot of water movement, and you can often spot diving birds at its mouth when shrimp are pumping through.

Another good spot is Crooked Bayou at Lake Eugene in Biloxi Marsh. This area has deep mouths and drains a lot of marsh, making it a prime location for catching Redfish, Trout, and other species.

If you're looking for a more guided experience, consider joining Captain Mike or Captain Larry, who specialize in coastal fishing around New Orleans and can take you to the best spots for the day.

With the right gear, bait, and knowledge of the tides, you're set for a successful and enjoyable day of fishing in the Gulf of Mexico around New Orleans.