No matter what time of year, the fish are biting in the waters around Grand Isle, Louisiana's only inhabited barrier island. The eastern end of the land mass is the 140-acre Grand Isle State Park that boasts a 400-foot fishing pier for those who prefer to keep their land legs while casting. The area is awash with companies that rent boats and kayaks, and will arrange excursions. Deep-sea fishing pulls in snapper and marlin, as well as smaller coastal fish; the pier often attracts trout, redfish and crabs. The last weekend in July draws thousands of competitors to the Grand Isle International Tarpon Rodeo, a contest that's been ongoing since the 1920s. The island also offers campsites, pristine beaches and a historic town with restaurants and shops.
Grand Isle State Park, 108 Admiral Craik Drive, Grand Isle, La. 985-787-2559, crt.state.la.us/louisiana-state-parks, @LAStateParks.
‘Duck Dynasty’ redux
Fans of the A&E show can test their own hunting abilities in several parts of the state where duck hunting is a popular pastime. The northwestern corner has been dubbed a “sportsman’s paradise” for its wealth of hunting opportunities in the Red River area near Shreveport. Ducks Unlimited lists the Sabine and Lacassine wildlife refuges near the coast among the country’s top waterfowl habitats, home to almost 9 million ducks. But if you want to follow in the footsteps of “Dynasty’s” Robertsons, head northwest to the clan’s hunting grounds around Monroe. First-time hunters are encouraged to work with a guide. Learn the basics about licenses, hunting seasons and maps from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, 2000 Quail Drive, Baton Rouge, La. 225-765-2800, wlf.louisiana.gov.
Place your bets
Gaming options are held both inside and out at Delta Downs Racetrack and Casino. Inside houses 1,600 slots and video machines; two live entertainment venues that stage shows such as a Kool and the Gang concert and a Prince tribute show; and a food court, a steak and seafood restaurant and a buffet featuring Cajun, Creole and barbecue favorites. Outside, a 6-furlong track hosts races for thoroughbreds from October through February and for quarter horses from April through July. The Lookout Restaurant serves steaks and seafood at tables overlooking the action.
2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton, La. 1-800-589-7441, deltadowns.com, @DeltaDowns.
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