🎷 The ROAMies Podcast: Southwest Louisiana Adventures – Dip Nets, Boudin, Alligators & More
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Topics in this podcast: Creole Nature Trail, Seafood, Boudin, Fishing, Crabbing, Alligators, Birding, Food
Connect with Southwest Louisiana native Rory Partin as he shares his favorite places to visit and activities in the region.
The ROAMies, the husband-and-wife duo of Rory and Alexa (James) Partin, are accomplished musicians and passionate travelers who have explored destinations worldwide. Rory, a 6-foot-tall leader of an 18-piece Big Band and steak lover, grew up in Southwest Louisiana. His wife, Alexa, a 5-foot vegetarian honored as Hot AC Artist of the Year at the LA Music Awards, has also embraced the Lake Area. Fan demand led to their musical collaboration as The ROAMies. In this engaging 13-minute audio clip, they share inspiring stories and cherished memories of the area!
Transcription
Alexa: We love scenery and cities when we travel, but it's even more fun to connect with a local and learn what they love to do and see. Rory, you just happened to be the local here.
Rory: That's right. I'm from Moss Bluff, an unincorporated town across the river from Lake Charles. I grew up there—Lake Charles is my stomping ground.
Alexa: We're diving in to share Rory's favorite places and activities in Southwest Louisiana. Rory, what do you love most about the area, and what specifics do you recommend for visitors?
Rory: There's a rich culture and heritage we're all proud of. Our license plate says "Sportsman's Paradise," and it truly is—especially for outdoor enthusiasts. It's a fantastic place to grow up, with strong family values and incredible food. The Cajun cooking is the best in the world, in my opinion. It's spoiled me for seafood anywhere else!
Alexa: Tell us about your childhood.
Rory: We lived less than a mile from the Calcasieu River. My brother and I would walk there to fish from the bank. As we got older, we'd water ski and more. Many activities from my youth remain favorites today. We'd load the family station wagon—or later the boat hauler—with dip nets (or cast nets for shrimp), an ice chest of drinks and sandwiches, string, and chicken necks. Those unfamiliar with the area might wonder about the chicken necks—we'll explain. We'd head south on Highway 14, past Boone's Corner to Highway 27, into the Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge, now part of the official Creole Nature Trail. Southwest Louisiana boasts wildlife refuges like Cameron Prairie, Sabine, Rockefeller, and Lacassine. Nature lovers, this is your spot!
We'd stop along the Creole Canal. Spot alligators, reptiles, birds, nutria, and more while driving. At a stop, we'd fish or net shrimp. For crabs, tie a chicken neck to string, toss it in, feel the tug, and slowly reel it to shore—then dip net the crabs. One refuge has a shell footpath to a raised platform overlooking the marsh—stunning views, but watch for cottonmouth snakes and speedy alligators!
Alexa: Study alligator safety first! ;)
Rory: I love it there. We'd also visit Holly Beach farther south—swim, build sandcastles, hunt shells, and seine net in waist-deep water for fish.
Alexa: Anything else?
Rory: For largemouth bass or white perch (sac-a-lait), try Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge. From November to March, Pintail Drive offers tens of thousands of migratory birds—geese, ducks, and more—like a live National Geographic special!
Southwest Louisiana shines for golf too: municipal courses like Mallard Cove, Graywood Plantation, The National, and Frasch Golf Course. Notable others: The Country Club at Golden Nugget Casino and Contraband Bayou Golf Club at L'Auberge Casino Resort.
Alexa: Your favorite restaurants?
Rory: Boudin is my favorite—divine! Hackett's has the best, especially smoked spicy. Their lunch plates are homemade, affordable, and delicious. For seafood: Steamboat Bill's, Cotten's, and Lake Charles landmark Tony's Pizza.
Alexa: As a vegetarian, I love Tony's whole wheat crust with broccoli or spinach!
Rory: Why ruin a pizza? But yes, Tony's is great. Check out revamped Downtown Lake Charles—live music, great food, and hangouts. Visit Southwest Louisiana for outdoor life and friendly culture!
Alexa: Plan your trip to experience it your way. Chicken necks optional!
Rory: Thanks for your feedback! Email questions to info@TheROAMies.com and join our mailing list.
Alexa: Thanks for listening and to the Lake Charles Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau. Visit www.theroamies.com for music on Spotify, iTunes, Amazon, and more podcasts. Follow @theroamies on Instagram and Facebook. See y'all next time!
