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, near Tupelo, offers a peaceful place for fishing in northeast Mississippi. The 322-acre lake is known for bass, bream, and catfish, with a boat launch and fishing pier making it easy to access. Tall pines line the shore, and the surrounding park has picnic spots and walking trails. The lake is part of a public recreation area named after the musician who was born nearby. It’s a solid option for anglers who want to fish without traveling far from town. The mix of woods and water makes for a quiet day outdoors, especially in early morning hours.
28. Shadow Lake
Shadow Lake, set in northern Mississippi, is known for its calm waters and steady fishing. Surrounded by woods and open land, it’s a quiet spot where anglers often come for bass, crappie, and bream. The lake has a mix of shallow and deeper sections, giving fish room to move and grow. Locals often fish from the banks or bring small boats. It’s not crowded, and the area keeps its natural look. You won’t find much noise—just birds, wind, and water. Shadow Lake doesn’t try to impress. It simply gives steady fishing and space to focus on the water.
27. Prentiss Walker Lake
Prentiss Walker Lake in Mississippi offers a steady spot for anglers looking for reliable freshwater fishing. Covering 81 acres, it’s stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. The lake is managed for consistent fish populations, with a concrete boat ramp and maintained shoreline access. Trees around the water provide some shade and natural cover for fish. It’s a place that supports regular visits rather than quick stops. Rules are posted clearly, and wildlife officials often patrol to keep things in line. While not flashy, it serves those who care more about steady fishing than scenery or show.
26. Aberdeen Lake
Aberdeen Lake stretches along the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway in northeast Mississippi, offering anglers a wide expanse of quiet shoreline and calm, open waters. Known for its healthy populations of crappie, catfish, and largemouth bass, this reservoir attracts both seasoned fishers and weekend visitors. Its shallow coves and underwater structures give fish plenty of cover, especially in warmer months. Public boat ramps and nearby camping spots make it easy to spend a full day—or longer—exploring the area. Whether casting from a pier or drifting by boat, Aberdeen Lake is a steady, reliable location for those who fish with purpose and patience.
25. 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.
24. Lake Ferguson
Lake Ferguson, located near Greenville, Mississippi, is a man-made oxbow lake shaped by the Mississippi River. Its waters are wide and steady, bordered by woodlands and farmland. Anglers come here for the chance to catch crappie, bass, and catfish, especially during warmer months. The lake’s calm surface is ideal for small boats, and the deep channels often hold bigger fish. Though less crowded than other lakes, it remains a steady choice for those who fish regularly. With easy access from nearby roads and consistent water levels, Lake Ferguson offers both variety and convenience for those who fish year-round.
23. Eagle Lake
Eagle Lake, near Vicksburg, Mississippi, is a long, curved oxbow lake formed by the Mississippi River centuries ago. Its quiet waters are home to bass, crappie, and catfish, making it a popular place for serious anglers. The lake’s unique shape offers both deep channels and shallow edges, ideal for various fishing styles. Locals fish from boats, docks, or the bank, especially during spring when crappie are active. Cypress trees line the edges, adding shade and shelter for fish. Eagle Lake isn’t flashy, but its steady fishing and natural setting keep people coming back through the seasons.
22. Okatibbee Lake
Okatibbee Lake, located near Meridian in east-central Mississippi, offers a steady fishing experience. Known for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish, it draws anglers year-round. The lake’s waters change with the seasons, making each trip different. With several boat ramps and fishing piers, access is easy. Submerged structures provide natural cover for fish, adding to the challenge and reward. Okatibbee isn’t flashy—it’s consistent. It’s the kind of place where people return, not because it surprises them, but because it doesn’t. A place built more for habit than hype.
21. Bay Springs Lake
Bay Springs Lake stretches along the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway in northeast Mississippi, offering deep, clear waters that attract anglers year-round. The lake is home to largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish. Its rocky banks and submerged structures provide reliable spots for casting. The surrounding pine forests give the area a quiet, natural feel without distractions. Boat ramps and fishing piers make access easy, while steady water levels support consistent conditions. Anglers often fish here for both sport and relaxation, drawn by the dependable bites and open space. Bay Springs Lake is known for its steady pace and strong fishing potential.
20. 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.
19. 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.
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 Columbia
Lake Columbia sits in Marion County, Mississippi, and offers anglers a steady chance at catching bass, crappie, and catfish. Its size—about 84 acres—makes it easy to explore by boat or from shore. Managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, it has regular fish stockings and seasonal improvements. The surrounding area is quiet, with a boat ramp and bank access. Fish often gather around submerged structures, making targeted casts worthwhile. Unlike larger lakes, Columbia offers less crowded conditions, so fish aren’t as pressured. It’s a straightforward place where results come from patience, timing, and knowing where to cast.
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 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.
14. 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.
13. 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.
12. Sardis Lake
Sardis Lake stretches across the hills of northwestern Mississippi, offering over 98,520 acres of water and surrounding land. Built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the 1930s for flood control, it has since become one of the state’s most popular fishing spots. Anglers come here mainly for crappie, which are known to grow large and move in schools, especially in spring and fall. The lake also holds bass, catfish, and bream. With its mix of deep water, creeks, and flooded timber, Sardis gives fish plenty of places to feed and hide. Several boat ramps and fishing piers make it easy to access, whether you prefer bank fishing or going offshore. The wide open water and steady levels attract both casual fishers and serious tournament participants. Sardis Lake’s size and structure make it a reliable spot year-round, especially for those who know how to follow the fish.
11. Lake Perry
Lake Perry, located in Perry County, Mississippi, is a 68-acre lake surrounded by tall pine forests and dirt trails. It’s a popular destination for people who enjoy fishing, especially for bass, bream, and catfish. The shoreline is easy to access, making it convenient for bank fishing, while a boat ramp allows for quiet days out on the water. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Lake Perry is part of the De Soto National Forest and offers simple amenities like campsites and picnic areas. There are no gas stations or large stores nearby, so most anglers bring everything they need. The lake’s steady water levels and light fishing pressure create good opportunities for a solid catch. Early mornings and overcast days are best for casting, especially during the warmer months. Lake Perry may not be flashy, but its steady conditions and quiet setting make it a reliable place to fish.
10. 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.
9. Lake Mike Conner
Lake Mike Conner, located near Collins in Covington County, Mississippi, is a 79-acre public fishing lake known for its steady water levels and easy access. Managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, it offers a practical setup for anglers, with concrete boat ramps, a fishing pier, and nearby bank access. The lake is regularly stocked with bass, bream, catfish, and crappie, making it a reliable place to fish throughout the year. Shaded picnic spots and a quiet, tree-lined shoreline give anglers room to spend the day without much disruption. It’s not a flashy destination, but it stays consistent—season after season. Locals appreciate its simplicity and the chance to fish without crowds or noise. For those who enjoy the rhythm of casting a line in a steady place with steady results, Lake Mike Conner fits the bill. It’s straightforward, accessible, and built for fishing—not show.
8. Lake Claude Bennett
Lake Claude Bennett, located in Jasper County, Mississippi, is a 71-acre fishing lake managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. Known for its solid bass and bream populations, it draws both seasoned anglers and weekend visitors looking for steady bites. The lake features a well-maintained boat ramp, fishing piers, and bank access that make it easy to navigate and enjoy. Waters here tend to be clear, and the depth varies enough to allow different fishing strategies depending on the season. Crappie fishing is particularly strong in cooler months, while warmer temperatures bring more active bass. The lake is surrounded by gently wooded areas and open shoreline, offering space to set up without crowding. Nearby facilities, including camping and picnic areas, make it suitable for longer stays. Whether you fish from a boat or the bank, Lake Claude Bennett offers consistent action without the noise of larger, busier lakes.
7. Lake Bogue Homa
Lake Bogue Homa, located just outside Laurel, Mississippi, spans over 882 acres and offers anglers a wide variety of fishing experiences. Managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, the lake is well-stocked with largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. The water is shallow in many areas, with stumps and submerged structures providing excellent cover for fish. A modern boat ramp and fishing pier make access easy for both boaters and bank fishers. While fishing is the main draw, the surrounding area includes picnic spots and open spaces that see steady local use. This lake is known for producing quality bass, especially during the spring spawn, and steady crappie action throughout the year. With regular fish management practices in place, Lake Bogue Homa remains one of the more reliable public fishing lakes in the region, offering year-round opportunities for both new and experienced anglers.
6. Pickwick Lake
Pickwick Lake stretches across the northeastern tip of Mississippi, offering a wide, deep body of water ideal for serious fishing. Fed by the Tennessee River, it holds a mix of rocky banks, shallow flats, and submerged channels that attract a range of species. Anglers come here for the strong populations of smallmouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Seasonal patterns shape the bite—spring brings bass into the shallows, while cooler months push fish deeper. Its size supports both quiet solo fishing and larger tournaments. The surrounding shoreline is dotted with boat ramps, marinas, and spots to launch a kayak or canoe. Local bait shops and fishing guides are easy to find, making it a practical base for a weekend on the water. Unlike smaller lakes, Pickwick’s open stretches challenge you to study the wind, current, and structure before making your cast. It rewards planning, patience, and a solid understanding of the water.
5. Lake Washington
Lake Washington, located in the Mississippi Delta, is one of the state’s oldest oxbow lakes, formed by the shifting course of the Mississippi River. Stretching over 3,000 acres, it offers steady fishing throughout the year. Anglers come here for crappie, which reach impressive sizes, especially in cooler months. Catfish are common, and bream and bass add to the variety. The lake has a long shoreline, dotted with homes and piers, giving plenty of bank access and boat launch points. Water levels stay fairly consistent, which helps keep the fish population stable. Local bait shops and fishing camps provide supplies and advice, often passed down through generations. Despite its age, Lake Washington remains dependable for both casual weekend trips and serious fishing efforts. Its slow currents and broad surface make it ideal for drifting or still fishing, especially during sunrise when activity peaks. It’s a lake built for those who know the rhythm of the water.
4. 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.
3. 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.
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.
Aberdeen lake is silting and weeding in . lots of its back waters sre unfishable now.