Introduction to the best fishing lakes in Mississippi:
Welcome to the Magnolia State, where we will explore the best fishing lakes in Mississippi. Mississippi’s waters teem with bass, crappie, catfish, and more. Whether you’re casting a line from the banks of the Mississippi River or drifting along the quiet waters of Sardis Lake, fishing in Mississippi is not just a hobby—it’s a way of connecting with nature and the rich fishing heritage of the Deep South.
Table of Contents: Top 10 Best Fishing Lakes in Mississippi
Ross Barnett Reservoir Fishing
- Location: Central Mississippi, near Jackson
- Size: Approximately 33,000 acres
- Depth: Average depth around 10 feet; deepest part around 30 feet
- Target Species: Largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, bream
- Notable Catches: Trophy-sized largemouth bass and crappie
- Description: Ross Barnett Reservoir is a popular fishing destination known for its diverse fishery and scenic beauty. Situated along the Pearl River, the reservoir offers anglers abundant fishing opportunities in its expansive waters and submerged structures. With its reputation for producing big bass and panoramic views, Ross Barnett Reservoir provides anglers with an enjoyable fishing experience in Central Mississippi.
Sardis Lake Fishing
- Location: North Mississippi, near Oxford
- Size: Approximately 32,000 acres
- Depth: Average depth around 20 feet; deepest part around 90 feet
- Target Species: Largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, striped bass
- Notable Catches: Trophy-sized largemouth bass and crappie
- Description: Sardis Lake is a scenic reservoir known for its excellent fishing and outdoor recreation. Situated along the Little Tallahatchie River, the lake offers anglers diverse fishing opportunities in its clear waters and submerged structures. With its abundant fish population and tranquil surroundings, Sardis Lake provides anglers with a relaxing fishing experience in North Mississippi.
Grenada Lake Fishing
- Location: North Mississippi, near Grenada
- Size: Approximately 36,000 acres
- Depth: Average depth around 15 feet; deepest part around 65 feet
- Target Species: Largemouth bass, crappie, catfish
- Notable Catches: Trophy-sized largemouth bass and crappie
- Description: Grenada Lake is a renowned fishing destination known for its trophy-sized bass and crappie. Situated along the Yalobusha River, the lake offers anglers diverse fishing opportunities in its expansive waters and submerged structures. With its reputation for producing big fish and scenic landscapes, Grenada Lake provides anglers with an exciting fishing experience in North Mississippi.
Enid Lake Fishing
- Location: North Mississippi, near Batesville
- Size: Approximately 28,000 acres
- Depth: Average depth around 15 feet; deepest part around 55 feet
- Target Species: Largemouth bass, crappie, catfish
- Notable Catches: Trophy-sized largemouth bass and crappie
- Description: Enid Lake is a popular fishing destination known for its excellent bass and crappie fishing. Situated along the Yocona River, the lake offers anglers abundant fishing opportunities in its clear waters and submerged structures. With its family-friendly atmosphere and productive fishery, Enid Lake provides anglers with a rewarding fishing experience in North Mississippi.
Check out some topwater buzzbaits! Check on Amazon
Arkabutla Lake Fishing
- Location: North Mississippi, near Hernando
- Size: Approximately 11,000 acres
- Depth: Average depth around 20 feet; deepest part around 55 feet
- Target Species: Largemouth bass, crappie, catfish
- Notable Catches: Trophy-sized largemouth bass and crappie
- Description: Arkabutla Lake is a scenic reservoir known for its excellent bass and crappie fishing. Situated along the Coldwater River, the lake offers anglers diverse fishing opportunities in its clear waters and submerged structures. With its tranquil surroundings and productive fishery, Arkabutla Lake provides anglers with a memorable fishing experience in North Mississippi.
Pickwick Lake Fishing
- Location: Northeast Mississippi, near Iuka
- Size: Approximately 43,000 acres
- Depth: Average depth around 25 feet; deepest part around 59 feet
- Target Species: Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish
- Notable Catches: Trophy-sized smallmouth bass and crappie
- Description: Pickwick Lake is a renowned fishing destination known for its trophy-sized smallmouth bass and scenic beauty. Situated along the Tennessee River, the lake offers anglers diverse fishing opportunities in its expansive waters and rocky shorelines. With its reputation for producing big fish and breathtaking views, Pickwick Lake provides anglers with an unforgettable fishing experience in Northeast Mississippi.
Calling Panther Lake Fishing
- Location: Southwest Mississippi, near Crystal Springs
- Size: Approximately 512 acres
- Depth: Average depth around 15 feet; deepest part around 45 feet
- Target Species: Largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill
- Notable Catches: Trophy-sized largemouth bass and crappie
- Description: Calling Panther Lake is a serene fishing destination nestled in the heart of Southwest Mississippi. Managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, the lake offers anglers opportunities to catch bass, crappie, and bluegill. With its scenic surroundings and peaceful ambiance, Calling Panther Lake provides anglers with a tranquil fishing experience away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Bay Springs Lake Fishing
- Location: Northeast Mississippi, near Corinth
- Size: Approximately 6,700 acres
- Depth: Average depth around 35 feet; deepest part around 90 feet
- Target Species: Largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, striped bass
- Notable Catches: Trophy-sized striped bass and crappie
- Description: Bay Springs Lake is a picturesque reservoir located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Fed by the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, the lake offers anglers excellent fishing opportunities amidst its rocky shorelines and submerged structures. With its crystal-clear waters and diverse fishery, Bay Springs Lake provides anglers with an unforgettable fishing experience in Northeast Mississippi. Additionally, the lake is surrounded by scenic forests and offers opportunities for camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Check out some of our favorite boat shoes for your travels: HUK shoes
Okatibbee Lake Fishing
- Location: East Mississippi, near Meridian
- Size: Approximately 4,144 acres
- Depth: Average depth around 15 feet; deepest part around 55 feet
- Target Species: Largemouth bass, crappie, catfish
- Notable Catches: Trophy-sized largemouth bass and crappie
- Description: Okatibbee Lake is a hidden gem for anglers seeking bass and crappie fishing opportunities. Located near Meridian, the lake offers a peaceful atmosphere and ample fishing spots along its shoreline. With its clear waters and healthy fish population, Okatibbee Lake provides anglers with a rewarding fishing experience in East Mississippi.
Lake Washington Fishing
- Location: West Mississippi, near Glen Allan
- Size: Approximately 5,000 acres
- Depth: Average depth around 10 feet; deepest part around 25 feet
- Target Species: Largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill
- Notable Catches: Trophy-sized largemouth bass and crappie
- Description: Lake Washington is a picturesque oxbow lake located in the Mississippi Delta. Known for its abundant aquatic vegetation and trophy-sized bass, the lake offers anglers excellent fishing opportunities amidst its scenic landscapes. With its tranquil waters and rich fishery, Lake Washington provides anglers with an unforgettable fishing experience in West Mississippi.
Conclusion: Best Fishing Lakes in Mississippi
Fishing in Mississippi is a timeless tradition that brings together anglers from all walks of life to share in the joy of the catch. Whether you’re fishing for dinner or simply seeking solace on the water, The best fishing lakes in Mississippi offer endless opportunities for adventure. So next time you’re looking to wet a line, be sure to explore the fishing waters of Mississippi and discover the natural beauty and abundant fishery that make it a true angler’s paradise.
Here are a few of my favorite baits that I will throw for Bass, pretty much year around:
Googan Baits Bandito Bug 3.3″, Green Pumpkin
Spring is right around the corner. If you need some tips and tricks for spring bass fishing, please check out our previous article to help you out: