Whether enjoying a slow, Southern family vacation, making a stop to celebrate and shake a leg during Mardi Gras, or munching on some big flavors in the state's 'Prairie Cajun Capital', there is never a dull moment in Louisiana. But the Bayou State is also a haven for those interested in exploring both the state's untamed and well-preserved nature spots: It's home to 40% of the country's wetlands.
Among the state's many hotspots, none rivals the reputation of the Mississippi River. Known for its economic
importance, it's also home to countless spots to explore, like Natchez, the oldest city on the river, famed for its Antebellum architecture. But if time spent boating, hunting, or fishing (or all three) is your thing, then take note — Pass-a-Loutre is where the river flows majestically into the Gulf and deserves a spot on your tour list.
Located on the easternmost pass of the Mississippi Delta, south of Venice, Pass-a-Loutre Wildlife Management Area (WMA) was established in 1921. The area is home to an abundance of wildlife, including many bird species passing through during migration. It's a great place for kayaking, boating, or birding, but it's primarily known as a hotspot for hunting and fishing. In fact, Pass-a-Loutre was once hailed as the country's most notable state-run hunting operations. It's still described as a sportsman's paradise with game like deer, turkey, quail, bobcat, as well as fishing and waterfowl hunting. Anglers enjoy chasing both fresh and saltwater species, including bass, catfish, speckled trout, flounder, and crabs.
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What To Know About Visiting Pass-A-Loutre
The only way to arrive at Pass-a-Loutre is by boat, and the nearest place to launch is in Venice. The Bayou Country is known for being both exuberant and scenic, and boating is the perfect way to explore these parts. Taking a boat tour of the region is a great way for visitors to see the management area and the surrounding waters. There are several fishing guides, eco tours, and kayak trips that depart from Buras and Venice.
If you're looking to stay awhile, there are five camping areas inside the area where you can spend the night on dry ground. Cadro Pass campground is located beside a dredge spoil where you might even be visited by coyotes, wild hogs, or rabbits. The two Loomis campgrounds are another popular option and are even more remote. It is ideal for those looking for some untamed adventure as it's farther from town. All of the camping areas feature docks, fire rings, barbecue pits, and space to pitch your tent. In addition to your standard camping gear, you'll want to bring plenty of bug spray.
Unfortunately, Pass-a-Loutre will not be around forever. A combination of natural occurrences has led some to predict that in the next century, the region will exist only as a shoal as the Delta Region transforms once again. Pass-a-Loutre has also been affected by past hurricanes, which have destroyed some marsh areas and led to the formation of sizeable ponds. Currently, there are conservation efforts to create delta crevasses to divert waters full of sediment with the hopes of encouraging more delta growth.
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