WELCOME TO THE BEST INSHORE-NEARSHORE
FISHING IN THE COUNTRY
Looking for the ultimate fishing adventure? Located just 30 miles from New Orleans, Louisiana, I'm on Vacation Fishing Charters offers unforgettable inshore trips in the waters of Shell Beach, Louisiana. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-timer, we’ll put you on the fish and ensure an epic day on the water.
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WHAT TO EXPECT
Get ready to experience the best inshore charter fishing in Louisiana—possibly the best in the country.
Just a short drive from New Orleans, you’ll quickly leave behind the hustle and noises of the city and find yourself in peaceful bliss at the edge of it all. As you pull in to Shell Beach, you’ll notice the Oyster boats, Shrimp boats, Crab Boats and Fishing Boats and quickly understand why the Louisiana Marsh is special.
You’ll step right on the boat and take off through Louisiana’s beautiful coastal marshes, take in the kind of sunrise you’ll never forget, while seeing endless wildlife (like the famous Louisiana Brown Pelican, alligators, dolphins, nutria, seagulls, and more.) You’re likely to forget that you came to fish, but don’t worry, we do that too :). Whether you're a seasoned angler or brand new to fishing, we tailor every trip to your group.
What Is Included?
Licensed Charter Captain (Captain Bradley is the real deal—who provides a legendary experience)
Fully-equipped Pathfinder 2600 TRS Boat
Shimano Stradic Reels & Penn Rods
Live Shrimp (when available) and all tackle provided
Ice + Ice chest on board for your catch and drinks
Fuel included – no surprise fees
Fish cleaning & bagging after the trip
Memories for a lifetime (fishing in the Louisiana marshes is magical and something you’ll remember forever)
What You Should Bring?
Valid Louisiana fishing license - You can buy a charter passenger license online at wlf.louisiana.gov (You MUST purchase a freshwater, and a saltwater license. If you’re a LA resident, we recommend getting the annual Basic fresh and saltwater for $2 more so you’ll be covered when you decide to come back the next month :). If you’re a non-resident, we recommend the 3 day Charter Passenger Freshwater and the 3 day Charter Passenger Saltwater for a total of $30. If you have a Louisiana Lifetime Fishing License, you’re good to go.)
Snacks + drinks (Adult Beverages is totally fine)
Sunscreen
Weather-appropriate clothing – We recommend long sleeve (yes, even when it is HOT) athletic or fishing shirt, pants or shorts, non-slip shoes, a hat, rain gear (if necessary), jacket (if necessary) and sunglasses.
Ice chest to bring your cleaned fish home
Cash for tips
How Long Is the Trip?
Most trips run 5–6 hours, depending on the bite and weather. We typically depart at first light, so plan to be at the dock before sunrise. Plan for an additional 30 min to an hour for your overall trip time so the captain can clean and bag your fish.
Your Captain will reach out prior to your trip to confirm times. (Times may vary slightly based on the day’s expected conditions. i.e. weather, wind, tides, etc.)
Where Do We Meet?
We’ll leave from the I’m on Vacation Fishing Charters Dock, just 30 miles from New Orleans.
1600 Yscloskey Hwy, Saint Bernard, Louisiana 70085
Where to Stay: I’m On Vacation Lodging
Skip the early morning drive and stay right here in Shell Beach at the I’m on Vacation Lodge or Camper Retreat—right across the street from the dock where you’ll step on the boat and take off.
I’m on Vacation Shell Beach Retreat is located just 30 miles from New Orleans. We offer:
Fully-furnished lodge, camper, and RV site options
On-site fish cleaning station
Walkable access to the docks
Family-friendly, dog-friendly, and fisherman-approved
Whether you're traveling solo, with your fishing crew, or bringing the whole family, company, wedding party, team, or you name it, we’ve got a spot for you.
Book Here!
What You'll Catch in Shell Beach
The waters around Shell Beach are loaded with some of the best inshore fishing in the country. Depending on the conditions and preference, your trip may land you:
Speckled Trout – A favorite for their fast, aggressive bite and flavor
Redfish (Red Drum) – These marsh-stalking beasts put up a fight of a lifetime
Bull Reds — Yes, really. Big, strong, and they don’t want to be landed—epic stories guaranteed
Black Drum – Not quite as feisty as a Redfish, but big and strong nonetheless
Flounder – Sneaky flatfish hiding along sandy bottoms - a true marsh delicacy
Sheepshead – Striped with human teeth and fun to catch around structure
Bass - Large mouth are most typical with the occasional striped bass
Catfish - Channel Catfish of course, but Hardheads and Gafftops do exist…
Spanish Mackerel - You’ll know when they come flying out of the water. Ceviche anyone?
Tripletail & Jack Crevalle – Bonus fighters if you're lucky
Ready to Fish?
Spots fill up fast—especially during peak season. Book your inshore-nearshore Louisiana charter fishing trip today and let’s go catch them!
Charter Fishing in Shell Beach, Louisiana –
New Orleans, LA Best Inshore Fishing
Looking for world-class inshore fishing in Louisiana? Just 30 miles southeast of New Orleans, Shell Beach is a hidden gem for anglers and outdoor lovers. Nestled along the Mississippi River–Gulf Outlet Canal (MRGO) and southern coast line of Lake Borgne, this marshy paradise is the perfect jumping off point to access the famous Biloxi Marsh, Reggio, Hopedale, Chandeleur and Breton Sound, Delacroix and Pointe a’ La Hache fisheries.
From trophy redfish and speckled trout to black drum and sheepshead, Shell Beach is packed with action year-round. While many outsiders may have heard of Venice, LA, the locals understand the connectedness of the fisheries between Shell Beach and Venice, but half the drive, crowd, and hassle of Venice. In fact, it’s not uncommon to have boats from Shell Beach and Venice fishing side by side.
Not just for anglers, Shell Beach is also a birdwatcher's paradise. You’ll spot pelicans, roseate spoonbills, blue herons, and egrets in their natural habitat — where the birds outnumber the people.
Just 0.3 miles from the famous Campo’s Marina, we fuel up and purchase all of our live bait from Campo’s Marina.
So whether you're visiting New Orleans or planning a dedicated fishing getaway, Shell Beach charter fishing offers a unique South Louisiana experience you won’t forget.
The Bite Starts Here
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The Bite Starts Here 〰️
I’m on Vacation Fishing Charters
1600 Yscloskey Hwy
Saint Bernard, LA 70085
504-323-5023
info@im-onvacation.com
Meet Your Charter Fishing Captain
〰️
Meet Your Charter Fishing Captain 〰️
Meet Captain Bradley –
Your Louisiana Charter Fishing Guide
Captain Bradley McCoy is the heart behind I’m On Vacation Fishing Charters. Born and raised in Louisiana with deep roots running boats on the Ouachita River, Captain Bradley has spent over a decade hunting and fishing the legendary inshore marshes of Shell Beach, Delacroix, and Hopedale. He’s not just a guide—he’s a passionate ambassador for the outdoors and the Gulf Coast lifestyle.
Let’s Do Some Business
Captain Bradley graduated from LSU with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance and spent the better part of two decades in Real Estate Brokerage and Development. Prior to earning his U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s License, Captain Bradley would host his corporate real estate clients from all over the country on unforgettable fishing trips. Through the bonds created fishing in the south Louisiana marsh, their friendships grew stronger, and clients quickly became some of his closest friends and best clients.
Fishing with I’m on Vacation Fishing Charters in the Louisiana Marsh is the perfect setting for corporate outings and building client relations. For many of our guests—business owners, executives, sales leaders, and their clients—a fishing trip with Captain Bradley isn’t just recreation, it’s a powerful way to build relationships, strengthen teams, and create new opportunities.
Bring the Party!
Captain Bradley has never met a stranger and while he knows you’re coming for the fish, you’ll be leaving with a lifetime friend (and fish :). The catch phrases FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) and YOLO (You Only Live Once) were popularized around the same time of Captain Bradley’s college days at LSU, which he took to heart as the social chair of his fraternity and life of the party. From LSU/Saint’s games, travels, festivals, bachelor parties, weddings, you name it, Captain Bradley has loved and lived it all which makes for great times together on the boat. It’s essentially the catalyst for “I’m On Vacation!”
You’re Family will Love It
Captain Bradley and his wife, Margaret, have a 4 yr old daughter, 2 yr old son, and another baby due to join the family in September of 2025. They have made it a mission to ensure their kids have a love for the outdoors as evidence by their multiple camper trips across the country and time spent living and fishing in Shell Beach. Captain Bradley uses a patient and encouraging approach to ensure a fun and memorable fishing experience that keeps kids excited and begging for the next trip.
The More the Merrier
Have a big family? Lot’s of friends? Tons of Clients?
We have multiple Captain’s to handle as many people as your group requires. All of our Captains are vetted to ensure the I’m On Vacation Fishing Charter’s standards are met. All Captain’s run at least a 24’ Bay Boat with a 300hp or greater engine. *Additional Captain’s Rod/Reel setup may vary slightly.
Trips Tailored to You
Whether you're hosting corporate clients, planning a bachelor or bachelorette party, or introducing your kids to the joys of fishing, Captain Bradley delivers patience, personality, and professionalism on every trip. His goal? To help you unplug, catch fish, and create memories that’ll last forever.
SHIMANO STRADIC REELS
PATHFINDER 2600
YAMAHA
GARMIN
MINN KOTA
SHIMANO STRADIC REELS PATHFINDER 2600 YAMAHA GARMIN MINN KOTA
Top Tier Gear – Fish Like a Pro
Captain Bradley runs a Pathfinder 2600 TRS — the gold standard for inshore and nearshore fishing. This versatile fishing machine handles the shallow marshes of Shell Beach and open waters in the Sound with ease, keeping you comfortable and ready to chase the bite wherever it leads.
Onboard, you’ll fish with the best:
Shimano Stradic reels – Smooth, powerful, and reliable for battling reds, trout, and anything else we hook into
Premium rods and tackle – Hand-selected for the local fishery
Live bait when available for that extra edge
Top-notch electronics – For finding fish fast and navigating Louisiana’s legendary marshes like a local
(2) 12” Garmin Chartplotter/Fish Finder combos
Fusion Stereo and Clarion Speakers
Minn Kota Ulterra 36v 112 lb trolling motor with spot lock
(2) 8’ Power Poles
Standard Horizon VHF with built in GPS
Lenco Trim Tabs
We don’t compromise on gear—because when the fish of a lifetime hits, you will be ready.
Why Top Gear Matters
Using professional-grade boats and gear isn’t just about looking good (though it helps). It’s about giving you every advantage on the water. Whether it’s a trip out to the Chandelier Islands, keeping a bull red pinned during a screaming run, or getting you smoothly across the marsh, the right equipment makes all the difference.
With Captain Bradley’s Pathfinder 2600 and Shimano setups, you’ll fish with the same confidence as the pros—and you’ll feel it from the first cast.
Where to Stay – Lodging in Shell Beach
Stay steps away from the dock.
Make the most of your Shell Beach fishing adventure by staying right where the action is. Our guests enjoy convenient, comfortable lodging at the I’m On Vacation Shell Beach Retreat— just steps from the boat.
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PELICAN PERCH LODGE
Sleeps up to 15 people
3 Bedrooms
3 Full Bathrooms
Kitchen
2 Living Spaces
Dining Room Table
Porch
Lots of Parking
YouTube TV
Wifi
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RETREAT CAMPERS
Rent the Retreat Camper for you + your petite crew.
Sleeps up to 4 guests
Queen Bed
Double Bunks
Flat screen TV
8’ Refrigerator
Microwave
3 Burner Gas Range and Oven
Full bathroom with shower
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RV SITES
Bring your own RV or Camper and post up with us.
20/30/50 Amp Hook Ups at each site
Water Hook Up
Sewer Hook Up
Wifi
Kindly note, at this time do not have bathrooms or showers for RV Guests
