Use of live bait is largely unknown and unnecessary because the fishing is ordinarily so good. A number 8 or 9 weight fly rod is best because it can be windy in the Chandeleurs and casting with lighter weight fly rods can be difficult. Standard shrimp and small minnow-imitating streamers and poppers work well. Weedless streamers are especially helpful since the best flats are covered with thick mats of turtle grass. Be sure to bring short pants or bathing suits, as wade- fishing is commonly practiced on beach areas and on some shallow grass flats.
Some anglers prefer to wear dark, lightweight pants for wading.
Floating, extra-long fish stringers and fishing vests are handy for anglers who intend to do much wading. Suntan lotion, cap, polarizing sunglasses, lightweight tennis shoes or special wade booties, rain gear, and a light jacket to thwart evening chill and for running in skiffs are good to have along, too. By early evening the boat is anchored in a sheltered area of the Chandeleurs. No guides are assigned to the anglers, but if the fishermen desire, one of the mates will accompany them. There's no real need for guides, however, as the entire area is a fisherman's haven, with bays and coves peppered with grass-bottom flats, shell bars and bays alive with baitfish, and seemingly every spot fairly crying for an angler to cast a lure.