A fixture in Louisiana fishing has passed away, according to multiple news sources. Charter captain and pilot Theophile Bourgeois died and two others were rescued after Bourgeois’ seaplane crashed in Chandeleur Sound. A rescue helicopter crew arrived at the scene near St. Bernard Parish and was able to recover two occupants. One was conscious and one was unconscious and both were rushed to a New Orleans hospital, where Bourgeois was declared dead.
A third occupant was initially missing but after a lengthy search, was rescued and also taken to the hospital. The names and condition of the survivors has not been released.
Bourgeois Fishing Charters has been a very popular guide service since the early 1990s. A unique, adventurous take on fishing, Bourgeois would fly anglers to the unpressured waters of the Louisiana barrier islands for an immersive fishing experience. They would regularly catch giant trout and redfish. Bass fishing legend Bill Dance even filmed a show with him.
The fishing world will miss Bourgeois. Not only was he a world-class fisherman, but he could have also been a standup comedian if he wanted to. He was always smiling, always positive and always cracking jokes in his thick Cajun accent. We will update this story as additional details are released.
