To the south, the vast expanse of the Gulf of Mexico harbors unimaginable numbers of fish that congregate under numerous oil platforms. Just a short boat ride to the west, fishermen routinely pull huge redfish and speckled trout off the surf of barrier islands dotting Timbalier Bay, Terrebonne Bay, Lakes Raccourci, Felicity and Barre. Fishermen may choose to stay in their boats or fish the surf, both highly productive methods. Along the beaches, redfish prowl close to shore. They herd small baitfish and shrimp into the shallows to devour them when their prey runs out of room to flee.
Many fishermen use a popping cork rig along the islands.
They tie a jig or beetle to the line and dangle it beneath a cork. A little shrimp on the beetle sweetens the enticement. Throw the rig near the shoreline and let it sit. This popping action simulates the sound of feeding fish. Attracted to the sound and commotion, fish see the beetle and bait and devour it.