Casting, jigging, trolling and bottom fishing explained

Know what an advertised technique means for your time on the water.

By Louisiana Deep Sea Fishing · 2 min read · Updated October 16, 2026

Method describes what you do with the presentation; a destination name does not. A guide can fish the same broad area with different methods as targets and conditions change. Ask what the planned method means for your participation, not just which fish appears in the gallery.

Casting and retrieving

You place a lure or bait away from the boat or bank and work it back or leave it in the intended position. Accuracy, room to cast and controlling slack can matter more than distance. A lesson may focus on a particular lure or cover type.

Jigging and vertical work

A presentation is worked through a chosen depth or near structure, often with controlled lifts and pauses. It is not simply bouncing the rod as quickly as possible. Line angle, weight and the guide’s depth instruction affect the task.

Trolling and drifting

In trolling, vessel movement pulls the presentation. In drifting, wind/current and boat control help move the setup. They do not promise the same amount of casting or the same physical effort from a guest. Boat and crew coordination are part of both experiences.

Bottom fishing

The rig is intended to work near the bottom, with a weight and hook arrangement suited to the job. Ask how contact and bites feel on the particular outfit. Different targets and gear rules can change the setup.

Choose a method you want to learn, then compare the real offshore/coastal formats or lake guides.

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