Louisiana · Fishing
Fishing in Monterey, Louisiana
Monterey, Louisiana sits in Catahoula Parish, a part of the state where the fishing calendar runs nearly year-round and the lakes do most of the talking.
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Monterey, Louisiana sits in Catahoula Parish, a part of the state where the fishing calendar runs nearly year-round and the lakes do most of the talking. The three lakes on the Roamze list here — Black River Lake, Long Lake, and Welsh Lake — are all lake fisheries, which means you're looking at structure fishing: points, flats, timber, and whatever the water level is doing that week. Catahoula Parish lakes are connected to the Red and Black River systems, so water levels fluctuate with seasonal floods and drawdowns, and that movement drives fish behavior more than almost anything else. When the water is pulling back in late summer and fall, bass and crappie concentrate in predictable spots and fishing gets very good. Spring floods push fish into flooded timber and brush, which can be equally productive if you know how to work it. This is not a destination for someone expecting manicured boat ramps and tackle shops every half mile — you'll want to come prepared. But if you're comfortable on a flat-bottom or jonboat and you read the water well, these lakes offer legitimate fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish without a lot of competition from other anglers.
Frequently asked questions
What fish species can I expect to catch at Black River Lake, Long Lake, and Welsh Lake?
All three are lake fisheries in the Catahoula Parish system, so largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish are the primary targets. Bream and sac-a-lait (white crappie) are also common. The mix you encounter on a given trip will depend on season and water conditions more than which specific lake you're on.
When is the best time of year to fish these lakes?
Fall drawdown — roughly September through November — is widely considered the most productive window, as receding water concentrates fish along drop-offs and in remaining timber. Spring can also be excellent during the pre-spawn bass period, typically February through April, though high water from seasonal flooding can make navigation tricky. Summer fishing is possible but the heat pushes activity to early morning and the last hour before dark.
What time of day should I be on the water?
First light through mid-morning is consistently the most productive window, especially for bass from late spring through summer. In cooler months, fish are more active throughout the day and midday can be just as good as dawn. Catfish are a reliable evening and overnight target regardless of season.
What gear and boat setup do I need?
A flat-bottom or jonboat is well suited to these lakes, particularly when water levels are low and you're working shallow timber. A trolling motor helps you stay quiet around structure. For bass, soft plastics and spinnerbaits worked around wood cover are standard. Crappie anglers do well with jigs and live minnows fished vertically in timber. Bring more tackle than you think you need — there are no guarantees of a nearby shop.
Do I need a Louisiana fishing license, and are there any local regulations I should know about?
Yes, a valid Louisiana recreational fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. Louisiana has statewide size and bag limits for bass, crappie, and catfish that apply to these waters. Check the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website before your trip for current regulations, as limits and any special rules for Catahoula Parish waters can be updated seasonally.
