Recreation

FISHING, SWAMP TOURS
Truly a sportsman’s paradise, Iberville offers wonderful bayous and swamps for great fishing, golfing at an Audubon Golf Trail course, prime hunting land, and numerous parks throughout the parish.

Perhaps its most unique asset is the 800,000 plus acre Atchafalya Basin. Teeming with the wildlife, the Basin is a treat for the senses offering moss-draped cypress trees and the sounds of a host of bird species and other critters within the mysterious, dark swamps. Of course, it also offers plenty of ample fresh water fishing. Public boat landings at Jack Miller’s Landing, Bayou Pigeon and Bayou Sorrel make it easy to enjoy scenic boat rides, canoeing, fishing, and water skiing. And, for those a bit concerned about venturing into the murky marshes without guidance, swamp tours are offered from White Castle and Bayou Sorrel.

The Last Wilderness offers personalized tours in a Cajun fishing boat made to go deep into the swamp. It offers access to the most remote places in the Atchafalaya. You’ll experience gigantic trees, native wildlife and tour with a local who has lived off the land by hunting and fishing for the past 13 years. The Last Wilderness also offers canoe rentals and guided canoe expeditions. Tours are 2 hours and are offered by reservation only. Phone: (225) 953-1020 or (225) 692-4114. Website: www.lastwildernesstours.com.

The fishing is also easy along Iberville’s many bayous, and the Plaquemine Waterfront Park offers a great pier, view and park facilities for a relaxing outing.

HUNTING
The marshes of Iberville have proved fertile ground for deer and fowl, and have provided an abundant hunting ground for area hunters. Many forest properties are posted for various hunting clubs, and there are no hunting guide businesses in Iberville.

GOLFING
Sweet. How else can you describe a championship golf course carved out of a sugar plantation? As a matter of fact, sugarcane still grows in the field next to The Island Country Club. This par 72-course is one of only six courses named initial members of Louisiana’s famed Audubon Golf Trail. This challenging course features 54 bunkers, nine lakes as well as Bayou Plaquemine and Bayou Jacob. Of the 18 holes, only one doesn’t bring water into play. But, astute golfers (and the locals) know to watch the swaying of the sugarcane in adjacent fields to determine wind direction. It’s a sweet course in a tranquil setting. www.theislandgolf.com

Located on Hwy. 77 one mile south of La. Hwy. 1. Phone: 225-685-0808.

PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS
Every area of Iberville offers parks, many with children’s play areas, ball fields and basketball courts. And, all areas of the parish have walking trails and other recreational facilities and programs. For more information on Iberville’s park system, go to www.iprd.net.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
A variety of festivals and special events are held throughout the year in Iberville. These events offer great Cajun food, fun, rides, games, and other activities. They range from rodeo events at the Mike Zito Multipurpose Center to canoe races at the Independence Day celebration.

The International Acadian Festival draws thousands of visitors each year for its unique Bayou Ceremony, festival and parade. Other festivals are held for Independence Day and Christmas.