The Top 30 Fishing Lakes in Mississippi Ranked

Mississippi has no shortage of lakes that offer great fishing, whether you’re after bass, crappie, catfish, or bream. As someone who’s spent time casting lines across the state, I’ve come to appreciate how different each lake can be—from the size of the catch to how crowded the boat ramps get on weekends. But I didn’t make this list alone. To make sure it reflects what real anglers think, I talked to locals who fish these waters regularly. Their firsthand advice helped shape many of the picks you’ll find here.

We also asked our social media followers to share their favorite fishing spots and what makes them worth the drive. The answers came from beginners, lifelong fishers, and even a few guides. This helped balance the list between well-known lakes and places you might overlook if you’re not from the area.

The result is a mix of 30 lakes, ranked not just by popularity, but by how well they deliver for different types of fishing. Some are better for boat access, others are great for shore fishing. A few are seasonal standouts. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or looking for your next regular spot, this list should give you a good place to start.

30. Columbus Lake

Columbus Lake, part of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, is a 9,000-acre fishing hotspot in Mississippi, renowned for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, it offers diverse fishing opportunities, with bass thriving in gravel pits and shorelines, crappie around submerged structures, and catfish in backwaters. Popular spots include Tibbee Creek and Kellog’s Slough. Anglers use jigs, minnows, or cut shad for success. Weekly fishing reports from the MDWFP help plan trips. Clean boats to prevent spreading invasive giant salvinia. Access points like East Bank Landing make it a favorite destination.

29. Elvis Presley Lake

Elvis Presley Lake, located near Tupelo in northeast Mississippi, reopened in May 2024 after a renovation period, and early results have been encouraging. State fisheries biologists report that crappie and largemouth bass are both thriving, with bass already in the four to five pound range and crappie taking full advantage of a strong shad population. Creel surveys and recent bass tournaments have shown anglers leaving satisfied. The 322-acre lake sits inside a public recreation area named after the musician born nearby, with tall pines lining the shore and a boat launch and fishing pier for easy access. Early mornings on the water here have a quiet, unhurried feel. If you visited before the renovation and came away disappointed, the fishing has improved considerably since then.

 

28. Prentiss Walker Lake

Prentiss Walker Lake covers 81 acres in south Mississippi and offers steady fishing for largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. The lake is stocked and managed by the state, with a concrete boat ramp and maintained shoreline access. One thing worth knowing before you go: the lake operates under a slot limit for bass, and enforcement is active. Anglers who don’t measure carefully can face heavy fines, so bring a measuring board and know the regulations before you launch. For those who follow the rules, the lake rewards patience with consistent catches in a quiet, wooded setting. It draws more catfish anglers than bass tournament crowds, which keeps the pressure manageable and the water calm most days.

27. Lake Ferguson

Lake Ferguson, located near Greenville in the Mississippi Delta, is a man-made oxbow shaped by the Mississippi River. The 2,800-acre lake has historically been a solid destination for largemouth bass, with catch rates and average fish size that draw serious anglers. However, state fisheries biologists flagged it as likely to have another difficult year in 2025, with river-connected oxbows in the region struggling due to consecutive low water years and persistent Asian carp pressure on the sport fish population. Anglers with local knowledge and patience can still find quality fish, particularly largemouth in the three to five pound range. Check current MDWFP fishing reports before making the trip, as conditions on Ferguson can vary significantly from season to season.

26. Aberdeen Lake

Aberdeen Lake stretches along the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway in northeast Mississippi, offering crappie, catfish, and largemouth bass across a wide expanse of open water. The lake has historically drawn both recreational anglers and weekend visitors, with public boat ramps and nearby camping making it easy to spend a full day on the water. That said, recent reports from local anglers indicate that silting and vegetation growth have made portions of the backwater areas difficult or impossible to fish. Some coves that once held fish are now too shallow or overgrown to navigate. The main lake sections remain fishable and can still produce solid catches, but Aberdeen is not the lake it once was and expectations should be set accordingly.

25. Lake Perry

Lake Perry sits in Perry County, Mississippi, tucked inside the De Soto National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The 68-acre lake is surrounded by tall pines and dirt trails, with a boat ramp and basic amenities including campsites and picnic areas. Bass, bream, and catfish are the primary targets, and light fishing pressure keeps the fish from getting too pressured. It is a genuinely remote spot, with no gas stations or stores nearby, so come prepared with everything you need. The lake draws mixed reviews from anglers, with some finding consistent action and others coming away frustrated. It works best as a quiet getaway rather than a destination you build a serious fishing trip around.

 

24. Lake Monroe

Lake Monroe, located in northeast Mississippi, offers a wide, open space for anglers looking to catch bass, bream, and crappie. Its calm water and steady shoreline make it easy to fish from both bank and boat. Seasonal changes bring variety, with spring and fall seeing the most action. The lake is stocked regularly, helping to maintain strong fish populations. Surrounding woods add natural shade and keep the area quiet. It’s not a large lake, but its easy access and reliable fishing make it worth the trip. Many locals come here often, knowing it provides solid fishing without too much fuss.

23. Lake Lincoln

Lake Lincoln, located in Lincoln County, Mississippi, offers a quiet space for fishing surrounded by tall pines and rolling hills. The lake stretches across 550 acres and is stocked with bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. Its clear, open water allows for casting from both boat and shore. Anglers often visit for the steady bite and easy access. A boat launch and fish cleaning station are available nearby. With little traffic and plenty of room, it’s a spot where locals and travelers return for the fishing itself—not the fuss. Early mornings bring the best bites as the lake begins to stir.

 

22. Lake Lamar Bruce

Lake Lamar Bruce, located near Saltillo, Mississippi, is a well-managed state fishing lake known for its clear waters and steady fish population. Covering 300 acres, it offers bass, bluegill, and crappie fishing with regular stocking by the state. Concrete boat ramps and fishing piers make access easy for anglers. The lake’s depth and layout support good year-round fishing, especially in spring and fall. Shaded banks and open casting areas give a balanced setting for different fishing styles. Though quiet, it sees steady use from locals who value its reliable conditions and thoughtful maintenance by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife staff.

21. Lake Jeff Davis

Lake Jeff Davis, located near Prentiss in south Mississippi, is a small but well-kept fishing spot that offers anglers a reliable place to catch bass, bream, and catfish. Managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, the lake covers about 100 acres and is regularly stocked to support healthy fish populations. It features a boat ramp, pier, and maintained bank areas that make it accessible for all types of anglers. The water is often clear, and the lake’s size allows for easier fish tracking. Early morning and late afternoon are typically the best times to fish. Though it’s not the biggest lake in the region, its consistency and manageable layout draw both locals and visitors looking for a steady place to cast a line. It’s an especially good location for beginners or families looking to fish without needing a full day or large gear setup.

 

20. Lake Mary Crawford

Lake Mary Crawford is a 128-acre public fishing lake tucked into the piney woods near Monticello, Mississippi. Managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, this lake is known for steady populations of largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and channel catfish. Its quiet surroundings and clear shoreline make it a solid choice for anglers who prefer less traffic. The lake is regularly stocked and monitored, offering a consistent fishing experience year-round. There’s a concrete boat ramp for easy water access and a well-maintained pier for shore anglers. Primitive camping sites and picnic areas are nearby, adding convenience for weekend trips. Unlike larger lakes that often draw noisy crowds, Lake Mary Crawford offers a more laid-back experience without needing to travel far off route. With regular creel surveys and active habitat management, this lake supports healthy fish populations and provides a reliable spot for day anglers and families alike.

19. Lake Tom Bailey

Lake Tom Bailey in Lauderdale County, Mississippi, is a 182-acre public fishing lake managed by the state. Known for its healthy populations of bass, bream, catfish, and crappie, it offers steady action throughout the year. The lake is designed with anglers in mind, featuring a concrete boat ramp, fishing piers, and bank access. It’s regularly stocked and managed for balanced fish growth, making it a good option for both casual and experienced fishers. The surrounding area is open and quiet, with few distractions and plenty of space to focus on the water. Early mornings often bring fog over the surface, and many locals head out with a rod before sunrise. No loud crowds or events—just the sound of birds, the soft ripple of the lake, and a solid chance to bring something home. Lake Tom Bailey is not about show—it’s about function, reliability, and time well spent outdoors.

18. Tippah County Lake

Tippah County Lake sits just outside Ripley, Mississippi, offering anglers a quiet place to cast a line. Spanning over 145 acres, this reservoir is known for bass, bream, and crappie fishing. The water is managed for quality, with seasonal stocking and habitat improvements. Shoreline access is available, along with a boat ramp for small craft. It’s a low-traffic spot, especially on weekdays, which means less pressure on the fish. Simple campsites and basic amenities are nearby. If you’re looking to fish without the noise of crowds, Tippah County Lake provides steady opportunities without needing a long trip or fancy gear.

17. Lake Bogue Homa

Lake Bogue Homa sits just outside Laurel in Jones County, covering 882 acres of shallow, stump-filled water that holds largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. The lake has a devoted local following and produces quality bass during the spring spawn, with a lake record largemouth pushing nearly 14 pounds. Bassmaster has recognized it as a legitimate small-boat bass fishery, rewarding anglers who know how to work structure in tight quarters. That said, its placement near the top of most lists overstates what it offers relative to the state’s bigger reservoirs. It is a good lake, not a great one, and works best for kayak and small boat anglers who prefer intimate water over wide open reaches. Manage expectations and it will deliver.

 

16. Lake Tangipahoa

Lake Tangipahoa, located within Percy Quin State Park, offers anglers a 490-acre freshwater lake surrounded by pine forests. Known for bass, crappie, and catfish, it supports both boat and bank fishing. The lake was rebuilt after a dam failure in 2012 and now includes updated boat ramps and fishing piers. Stocked regularly, it gives fishermen a good chance at steady catches year-round. Its calm waters and tree-lined banks create a steady environment for local wildlife and fish populations. Whether you’re trolling deep or casting from shore, Lake Tangipahoa offers steady action in a well-kept, natural setting.

15.  Lake Bill Waller

Lake Bill Waller, located in Marion County, Mississippi, is a small public lake known for producing large bass. Managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, it spans 168 acres and is designed to support sport fishing. The lake is stocked regularly and offers solid opportunities for catching largemouth bass, bluegill, and redear sunfish. Anglers often visit for the chance to catch bass weighing over ten pounds, thanks to strict slot limits and catch regulations that help protect the population. The surrounding area is quiet and wooded, offering a natural setting with easy access. Basic amenities such as a boat ramp and bank fishing areas make it simple to get started. Whether you’re planning a quick trip or a full day on the water, Lake Bill Waller offers a steady chance for success and a clean, well-kept environment focused on fishing more than recreation.

14. Okatibbee Lake

Okatibbee Lake sits near Meridian in east-central Mississippi and covers roughly 3,800 acres. It may not get the headlines of the big north Mississippi reservoirs, but state fisheries biologists specifically recommended it in 2025 for anglers chasing a limit of eating-size crappie. Spring creel surveys from 2024 showed anglers averaging four crappie per hour, a strong number for a lake of its size. The lake was formed by damming Okatibbee Creek and sits in a quiet, wooded setting in the eastern part of the state. Bass, catfish, and bream round out the species mix, with multiple boat ramps and fishing piers making access straightforward. Consistent numbers over reputation, and that is worth a lot.

13. Lake Washington

Lake Washington is one of Mississippi’s oldest oxbow lakes, stretching over 3,000 acres in the Delta region south of Greenville. It has a long history as a crappie destination, with a broad shoreline dotted with piers, fishing camps, and bait stands that have served generations of anglers. The fishing can still be good, particularly for catfish and bream, but the lake has faced growing criticism in recent years. Locals report that heavy out-of-state fishing pressure, combined with limited enforcement, has taken a toll on crappie numbers. If you hit it right, especially in early spring, you can still find quality fish. But it requires more local knowledge and better timing than it once did, and blind trips are more of a gamble than they used to be.

12. Davis Lake

Davis Lake is a 200-acre impoundment in Chickasaw County, managed by the U.S. Forest Service inside the Tombigbee National Forest. It is one of the most talked-about trophy bass destinations in Mississippi, having produced a 17.34-pound largemouth, the second largest ever caught in the state and within striking distance of the all-time record. The lake was engineered with level gravel ledges and deep channels to promote ideal spawning conditions, and Florida-strain bass stocking has amplified the results. Slot limits protect the big fish. Winter is prime time for giants, but the lake fishes well year-round. Serious bass anglers who have not made the trip yet are missing out.

11. Neshoba County Lake

Neshoba County Lake is a 138-acre state fishing lake near Philadelphia, Mississippi, and it has built one of the most impressive trophy bass reputations in the state relative to its size. The lake record stands at 14.3 pounds, and double-digit bass are caught here with enough regularity that serious anglers plan annual trips around the spawn. Game and Fish magazine has ranked it among the state’s best trophy bass destinations, and the numbers back that up. Standing timber, deep creek channels, and weedy shallows give bass plenty of cover to grow large and feed well. Crappie, bream, and catfish round out the fishery. Small lake, big fish.

10. Arkabutla Lake

Arkabutla Lake is the smallest of the four north Mississippi flood control reservoirs, covering around 11,870 acres at summer pool on the Coldwater River. Historically grouped with Grenada, Enid, and Sardis as part of the state’s elite crappie tier, Arkabutla earned that reputation through fertile soil, annual drawdowns that concentrate forage, and a backwater system that produces both numbers and size. The lake is currently being maintained at reduced levels for dam assessment and repair, so check current MDWFP conditions before making the trip. When it returns to full operation, expect it to reclaim its standing as one of the premier crappie fisheries in the country. Bass, catfish, and bream round out the catch.

9.  Natchez State Park Lake

Natchez State Park Lake, located at Bob M. Dearing Natchez State Park about ten miles north of Natchez, holds a distinction no other lake in Mississippi can claim: it produced the state record largemouth bass, an 18.15-pound giant caught in 1992 that still stands today. The 230-acre lake has been a magnet for trophy bass hunters ever since, with multiple fish over ten pounds caught each year and a reputation that draws serious anglers from across the region. Bass, crappie, bream, and catfish all thrive here. The park offers cabin rentals, camping, and a boat launch. If a shot at a true giant largemouth is what you are after, this is the lake.

8. Calling Panther Lake

Calling Panther Lake, located in Copiah County, Mississippi, is known for its clear water and healthy fish populations. This 404-acre lake was built with anglers in mind, offering deep channels, standing timber, and gradual shorelines that support a wide range of species. Bass fishing is a major draw, with the lake producing quality largemouths throughout the year. Crappie, bream, and catfish also thrive here, providing year-round fishing opportunities. The lake has a modern boat ramp and piers, making access easy for both boaters and bank anglers. While popular with locals, it often sees less pressure than larger reservoirs, giving anglers a better chance to focus. The surrounding area is forested and quiet, with no commercial development.

 

7. Eagle Lake

Eagle Lake is a 4,700-acre oxbow located about 20 miles north of Vicksburg, co-managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks and the Eagle Lake Management Board. State fisheries biologists specifically called it out in their 2025 forecast as a crappie fishery that can compete with the big north Mississippi reservoirs, and the data backs that up. The lake had a record year for crappie numbers in 2024, producing fish in the 1.5 to 2.5 pound range with regularity. Both black and white crappie are present, each requiring slightly different patterns to find. Bass, bream, and catfish round out the fishery. Private piers and docks line the deeper outside bends and are among the most productive crappie spots on the water.

6. Bay Springs Lake

Bay Springs Lake runs along the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway in northeast Mississippi, covering 6,700 acres of clear, deep water with 133 miles of shoreline. It is one of the most underrated bass fisheries in the state, consistently ranking among the top two lakes in Mississippi by quality indicators in MDWFP bass tournament data. Spotted bass in the three to five pound range are common, double-digit largemouths show up regularly, and local anglers report 16-pound bags on routine trips. Rocky points, creek channels, standing timber, and deep ledges give fish plenty of structure to work. Multiple boat ramps and a steady tournament schedule reflect how seriously the bass fishing community takes this lake. Do not overlook it.

5. Enid Lake

Enid Lake, located in north-central Mississippi, offers steady fishing opportunities throughout the year. Known for producing large crappie, the lake also supports healthy populations of catfish, bass, and bream. Its broad waters and winding shoreline give anglers room to spread out, whether casting from a boat or the bank. Several boat ramps and maintained fishing areas make access easy. Water levels can vary with the season, especially in winter when the lake is drawn down, but fishing stays productive. Locals and travelers alike return to Enid for reliable catches and a slower pace. The surrounding landscape is mostly wooded hills, and the open water can get choppy in windy conditions, so planning ahead matters. This is a lake built more for function than beauty, but its reputation for good fish keeps people coming back. If you’re after size and numbers, Enid is one of the state’s more dependable stops.

4. Sardis Lake

Sardis Lake spreads across the hills of northwest Mississippi, covering nearly 32,000 fishable acres with a mix of deep channels, submerged timber, rocky bluffs, and expansive flats that give anglers plenty of water to explore. Built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for flood control, it has grown into one of the state’s top crappie and bass destinations. Spring and fall crappie fishing draws anglers from across the region, with fish regularly pushing two pounds and larger. Largemouth and spotted bass thrive in the varied structure, and Engineer’s Point is one of the more reliable spots on the lake. Multiple boat ramps and easy interstate access make it one of the most fished reservoirs in Mississippi. Many locals argue it belongs above Enid, and they are not wrong.

3. Pickwick Lake

Pickwick Lake stretches across the northeastern corner of Mississippi along the Tennessee border, offering 43,000 acres of some of the best bass fishing in the country. MDWFP tournament data consistently ranks it the top bass lake in Mississippi by quality indicators, and Bassmaster places it among the best fisheries in the entire Southeast. It took over 29 pounds to win a recent MLF tournament here. Smallmouth bass are the signature catch, with trophy fish holding along rocky bluffs and gravel bars near Sevenmile Island, while largemouth and spotted bass fill out the shallows and creek mouths further south. Striped bass, crappie, and catfish add to the variety. Guides, marinas, and tournament infrastructure make it one of the most accessible big-water fisheries in the state.

2. Ross Barnett Reservoir

Ross Barnett Reservoir, just northeast of Jackson, Mississippi, spans over 33,000 acres and serves as a major fishing location in the state. Built along the Pearl River, the reservoir is known for its healthy populations of bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. Anglers will find a mix of shallow cover, drop-offs, and open water, offering a range of fishing opportunities year-round. Multiple public boat ramps and fishing piers make it accessible for both bank and boat anglers. Seasonal changes bring different fishing patterns, especially during the spring spawn and summer topwater bites. The surrounding landscape includes pine forests and marshy banks, giving the area a natural, rugged feel. Local tournaments are often held here, attracting both experienced and beginner fishermen. Ross Barnett Reservoir is more than a scenic body of water—it’s a working lake that supports strong fishing activity and continues to be a central part of Mississippi’s freshwater angling scene.

1. Grenada Lake

Grenada Lake in north-central Mississippi is known for some of the best crappie fishing in the United States. Built for flood control, this large reservoir covers over 35,000 acres and attracts anglers from across the country. The lake’s flooded timber, creek channels, and shallow flats create ideal conditions for big fish. Water levels can change throughout the year, but local guides often help visitors find the right spots. The surrounding area includes several boat ramps, campgrounds, and picnic areas, making it easy to plan a full day on the water. Spring is a popular time to fish, especially when the crappie move into shallow areas to spawn. Aside from crappie, anglers also catch bass, catfish, and bream. Whether fishing from the bank, a dock, or a boat, Grenada Lake offers reliable action and a chance at landing trophy-sized fish in waters shaped by both nature and time.

Fishing Lakes in Mississippi: Info and FAQ

Mississippi has many lakes that offer good fishing throughout the year. Whether you’re going after bass, catfish, crappie, or bream, there are plenty of places to fish across the state. Popular spots include Ross Barnett Reservoir, Grenada Lake, Sardis Lake, Enid Lake, and Pickwick Lake. These lakes are managed to support fishing and often have boat ramps, piers, and cleaning stations.

Fishing is allowed year-round, but the best times are usually spring and fall when the water is cooler and fish are more active. Most public lakes are monitored and stocked by the state to maintain healthy fish populations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a fishing license?
Yes. Residents aged 16 to 64 need a license to fish in public waters. Non-residents also need one. Some special dates allow fishing without a license, but these are limited.

Are there free fishing days?
Yes. Certain days during the year allow residents to fish without a license. These days are often tied to state or national events and are announced in advance.

What fishing methods are allowed in public lakes?
You can fish with rod and reel or by using a pole. Other types of fishing gear like nets or traps are not allowed in state-managed lakes.

Where can I find fishing conditions and rules for each lake?
State agencies provide regular fishing reports, lake maps, and rule updates. These help anglers know what to expect and what fish are currently active.

What fish are common in Mississippi lakes?
Most lakes have largemouth bass, channel catfish, crappie, bluegill, and redear sunfish. Some areas also have flathead catfish and spotted bass.

Are there fishing tournaments in Mississippi?
Yes. Many lakes host fishing tournaments, especially for bass and crappie. Some events are local, while others draw anglers from around the country.