5 minute read
Get On The Water
In Louisiana’s “Easy Escape,” Relaxing Waters Abound.
BY LAURA KINIRY
Cruising along the smooth surface of the Tchefuncte River, I felt an incredible sense of calm. We were drifting among a setting of moss-draped cypress, tupelo gum, fan-leaved palmetto trees and verdant swamplands where, every so often, a gator would lazily raise its head. As Captain Mike shared a bit of local history and offered his thoughts on the best way to prepare a freshly caught catfish (hint: it involves Cajun spices), I realized this was exactly the kind of quiet reprieve I needed.
It was February 2023, and I’d come to The Northshore as a journalist to celebrate Mardi Gras. I’d spent the last few days learning about various krewes, dining on king cake-inspired desserts, and even gearing up to ride in Slidell’s Krewe of Dionysus parade (where I’d discover that tossing out beads is an art form). But my itinerary also included a tour on Captain Mike’s 24-foot covered pontoon boat with Louisiana Tours and Adventures, and with it came a sunset of pinks and reds that reflected off the river, transforming the water into an almost-holographic display of light and motion that left me mesmerized—and snapping a ton of photos.
After two hours on the river, I had no doubts about why The Northshore is known as Louisiana’s “Easy Escape.” In fact, relaxing waters abound in St. Tammany Parish, from the vast Lake Pontchartrain to Bayou Cane, a lazy tributary on Pontchartrain’s north side that’s popular among kayakers. Whether it's cruising with Tchefuncte River Charters on its Fat Bottom Girl, a 26-foot pontoon boat—complete with a bar, sound system and restroom—that offers a stop at any one of eight bars and eateries along its scenic route, or sunning on the beach at Fontainebleau, Louisiana’s most visited state park, The Northshore offers plenty of other water activities to whet your appetite (and mine). Here are some favorites ...
For the ultimate water experience, Mandeville’s Delaune Sailing Charters offers private trips aboard a 42-foot sailboat with up to five of your friends. It’s the perfect opportunity to indulge in the “boating lifestyle” by setting sail midday or while watching an incredible sunset along the horizon. What’s more: Captain Rick, the company’s owner, hosts hands-on sailing lessons in everything from rigging to tackling. Not only can you discover the ins and outs of operating a yacht on your own, but you might also consider buying one. Delaune has featured everything from a Pearson 27 with a wing keel to an impressive Oceanis 44 for purchase on its site.
Book a kayak from Bayou Adventure’s Fontainebleau State Park kiosk and set out exploring the waters of Lake Pontchartrain on a self-guided tour. Or enjoy a guided wetland journey along the Bogue Falaya River with Canoe and Trail Adventures, a Northshore staple for over 45 years. Kayaks To Geaux also delivers kayak rentals at several locations in St. Tammany, so that anyone can traverse the parish’s various bayous, rivers and swamps at their leisure.
Try your hand at catching speckled trout, redfish and flounder with Slidell-based fishing charter Angling Adventures of Louisiana, and keep an eye out for local wildlife like Louisiana brown pelicans and otters throughout the full-day excursion. The company’s motto is “No fish, no pay”, perfect for a novice like me. For something even a little more intrepid, join Wicked Fishing Charters in Mandeville on a “kraken hunt” to search for the monsters (alligator gar, bull redfish and bull shark). On this mostly catch-and-release adventure, it’s all about the chase.
With so much to do on The Northshore, I’m already planning my return. I just hope it involves some king cake treats to go with my time on the water.
ST. TAMMANY'S WATERWAYS
These bodies of water contribute significantly to the natural beauty and recreational opportunities available in St. Tammany.
Lake Pontchartrain
Abita River
Bayou Bonfouca
Bayou Cane
Bayou Lacombe
Bogue Falaya River
Pearl River
Tchefuncte River
DID YOU KNOW?
Lake Pontchartrain is approximately 630 square miles (1,630 square kilometers) in area, making it one of the largest inland bodies of water in the United States. It's technically an estuary, not a true lake, because it connects to the Gulf of Mexico via the Rigolets strait, Chef Menteur Pass and other smaller waterways.
EDITOR'S TIP
Packing List for a Day on the Boat
Camera and binoculars
Sunglasses and a secure-fitting hat
Sunscreen and bug spray
Comfortable and practical boat shoes
Light jacket for cooler days and evenings
Waterproof bag for valuables
Refreshments, including water and easy snacks
Fishing license if you are planning to fish
Properly fitted personal flotation device. Check with your charter captain on sizes already onboard.
