A Guide To The Best Fishing Lakes And Rivers In Mississippi

There is no better place for fishing enthusiasts than Mississippi, which has many lakes and rivers and beautiful open places for fishing. From the fanatical bass fishermen to the simple fishing enthusiast, fishing can be done in the entire state, enjoying its waters or the state’s lakes, rivers, and fishing reefs. Below are some of the fishing lakes and rivers in Mississippi which you could probably explore. At the end of this blog, we will also give you tips on where to stay in Mississippi. So stay tuned! 

Best Fishing Destinations In Mississippi

Mississippi offers 225,000 acres of freshwater for fishing, including 119 public lakes and a vast network of 123,000 miles of streams, making it a paradise for anglers. Below are some of the best places to go fishing in Mississippi.  

1. Pickwick Lake 

Location: Borders Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee 

Pickwick Lake is 43,000 acres. As a reservoir, it is famous for its great fishing opportunities, primarily for smallmouth bass. Considered one of the best public fishing lakes and rivers in Mississippi, Pickwick Lake also has largemouth bass, striped bass, and catfish. The northern area close to Sevenmile Island is the hotspot for catching smallmouth bass due to the structure of the lake bottom at the rocks and water currents. Further south, the largemouth bass is located in areas of shallow gravel and creek mouths. 

Fishing Tip: Use soft plastic crawfish lures along the rocky bottom in deeper waters, or try crankbaits and topwater lures near shallow stumps and gravel beds. 

2. Grenada Lake 

Location: Near Grenada, Mississippi 

Grenada Lake is famous internationally as a crappie fishery, and fishermen targeting behemoth crappie will not be let down. It is a 35,000-acre lake that is comparatively shallow and full of timber and other structures, such as brush piles, that help attract fish such as crappie, bass, and catfish.  

During the spring and early summer, crappie fishing is particularly perfect because the lake’s waters are relatively shallow during these months, and shining colors on the crappie lures are ideal.  

Fishing Tip: In spring, fish close to flooded timber areas using brightly colored jigs for your best shot at big crappie. One of the popular lakes and rivers in the Mississippi, its Clear Creek area also has a reputation for great bass fishing. 

3. Ross Barnett Reservoir 

Location: Northeast of Jackson, Mississippi 

Covering 33,000 acres, Ross Barnett Reservoir—affectionately known as “The Rez”—is a versatile fishing spot close to Jackson. It’s a favorite for bass anglers, with its many coves and inlets offering ideal conditions. This is why it is one of the best fishing lakes and rivers in Mississippi. 

The lake has multiple areas for various species, such as bass, crappie, bream, and catfish, with unique fishing challenges across its three main sections. Its combination of open water and shallow coves allows for both boat and shore fishing. 

Fishing Tip: For bass, the lake’s Pearl River section is productive, particularly in spring. Try using spinnerbaits and live baits near submerged timber for a good catch​. 

4. Lake Washington 

Location: Washington County, Mississippi 

Located along the Mississippi River, Lake Washington is one of the state’s oldest and most scenic oxbow lakes. This peaceful lake is excellent for crappie fishing, where anglers can reel in 2-pound crappies consistently.  

Lake Washington’s shallow, warmer waters are ideal for spawning crappie in spring, while bass and catfish are abundant year-round. It’s also a great destination for families looking for fishing in Mississippi River, with nearby cabin rentals for a relaxing lakeside stay. 

Fishing Tip: Use minnows or jigs along the lake’s woody structure for a successful crappie fishing day. During spring, fish close to the banks as crappie move in to spawn​. 

5. Enid Lake 

Location: Yalobusha County, Mississippi 

Enid Lake holds the record for the world’s largest white crappie, making it a destination for crappie fishing enthusiasts everywhere. Its clear waters and healthy fish populations make it a favorite year-round, while springtime brings excellent crappie and bass action near its wooded shorelines. The lake’s diverse environment suits anglers of all experience levels and provides opportunities for various fishing techniques, from baitcasting to fly fishing. 

Fishing Tip: Try casting jigs or minnows along the lake’s timber-filled channels in spring, when the crappie bite is particularly active​. 

6. Calling Panther Lake 

Location: Crystal Springs, Mississippi 

For those seeking solitude and trophy bass, Calling Panther Lake is a hidden treasure about an hour from Jackson. This 512-acre lake is relatively quiet, with dense vegetation and a significant largemouth bass population. It’s not uncommon to catch 8-10 pound bass here, especially in fall when the bass move to shallower waters. The lake’s structure-rich environment also makes it ideal for topwater fishing. 

Fishing Tip: Target weed beds and timber areas with topwater baits during early mornings or evenings. Try soft plastic worms or crawfish lures in deeper channels for larger bass. 

7. Mississippi Gulf Coast 

Location: Along Mississippi’s Gulf Coast 

If saltwater fishing is more your speed, the Mississippi Gulf Coast has a fantastic array of options. Anglers can enjoy everything from inshore fishing for redfish and speckled trout to deep-sea excursions targeting snapper, grouper, and amberjack. Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula offer fishing charters suitable for beginners and experienced anglers alike. It is a great choice for families looking for some outdoor adventure in Mississippi. 

Fishing Tip: For inshore fishing, try live shrimp or crab bait near piers or marshes. For a full-day adventure, join a charter for a deep-sea experience where you can fish for a larger game​. 

 

Final Thoughts 

Mississippi’s lakes and rivers provide diverse fishing opportunities for every angler, from trophy bass lakes to the peaceful oxbows perfect for crappie fishing. Whether casting in Pickwick Lake’s rugged waters or enjoying a relaxed day at Lake Washington, you’re sure to find a spot that fits your fishing style.  

If you want to have a great fishing experience and enjoy a relaxing stay after fishing, consider La Quinta Inn & Suites in Pearl. Making a Hotel Room Reservation in Pearl, MS, at La Quinta will allow you to be comfortable throughout the trip and access popular lakes easily.