The Bottom Boat Fleet of South Louisiana: A Story of Resilience and Bounty

In the brackish, rich waters of South Louisiana, a special kind of fishing culture thrives. It’s built on generations of experience, tight-knit families, and a fleet of vessels known as bottom boats. These boats—and the communities that run them—are at the heart of the Gulf seafood industry, providing an incredible array of species caught close to shore.

Bottom boats refer to smaller, often family-owned vessels that target species like snapper, grouper, drum, and other reef fish using hook-and-line or bottom longline gear. They’re nimble, community-based, and deeply tied to the rhythms of the Gulf.

Unlike large industrial trawlers, bottom boats operate on a scale that allows for careful handling of fish, lower environmental impact, and greater adaptability. Many captains know exactly where to go and when—navigating tides, seasons, and storm patterns with an intuition that can’t be taught in a classroom.

These boats are also incredibly important for economic resilience. In towns like Dulac, Chauvin, and Grand Isle, fishing isn’t just a job—it’s a lifeline. When hurricanes hit or markets fluctuate, bottom boats help keep money and food circulating locally.

But like so many traditional industries, the bottom boat fleet faces mounting challenges. Regulatory complexity, leasing costs, aging infrastructure, and competition from imported seafood all take a toll. And yet, these captains keep going—hauling in beautiful fish, rain or shine, to feed their families and yours.

At Jensen Tuna, we’re proud to work with this fleet. We see their skill, their heart, and their history. And we believe they deserve more recognition—not just as producers of great seafood, but as stewards of a way of life worth protecting.

So next time you order Gulf fish, think about the boat that brought it in. Chances are, it was a bottom boat—working the waters with purpose, passion, and pride.