For anglers seeking excellent freshwater fishing in scenic, tranquil settings, it’s hard to beat Mississippi’s state-operated fishing lakes. In addition to dedicated fishing parks, Mississippi boasts an array of parks providing world-class fishing opportunities across the state. These lakes offer easy access to quality fishing for a variety of species, some of which can grow to impressive sizes.
The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) manages 19 prime fishing lakes on more than 4,000 acres of water across Mississippi, as well as 18 state park lakes totaling 3,133 water acres in 17 state parks. Both the state fishing lakes and park lakes provide top-notch fishing experiences, supported by effective management to sustain fish populations and enhance the angling experience.
Fishing at State-Managed Lakes in Mississippi
To fish in Mississippi’s State Fishing Lakes and State Park Lakes, anglers need a sport fishing license and lake permit, except on the first Saturday and Sunday of National Fishing Week in June, when fishing is free. Only rod-and-reel or pole fishing is permitted, although bowfishing for species like carp, gar, buffalo, and bowfin is allowed at night with a valid permit. Other types of fishing gear are not allowed.
Each lake features ample bank fishing areas, including handicap-accessible fishing piers. Fishing from courtesy piers next to boat ramps is prohibited. Night fishing from boats or the shore is permitted at all State Fishing Lakes, except at Lake Bill Waller. For anglers with RVs or tents, camping is available at most fishing lakes on a first-come, first-served basis, though campsites cannot be reserved in advance. Camping is not available at Lake Bill Waller and Lake Walthall.
A distinct advantage of Mississippi’s fishing parks is the careful monitoring of fish populations. MDWFP fisheries biologists regularly sample fish populations and create customized management plans for each lake. Activities such as stocking, sampling, liming, fertilization, and implementing fishing regulations help ensure the health and sustainability of fish populations. This proactive approach has led to impressive results, including a current state record for largemouth bass—a whopping 18.15 pounds—caught by Anthony Denny at Natchez State Park Lake in 1992.
MDWFP State Fishing Lake Record Fish Program
Each state fishing lake maintains its own list of record fish, viewable on the MDWFP website. Anglers who catch a record fish will receive a certificate from the MDWFP, which is also displayed at the lake’s office. Qualifying species for lake records include largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, crappie, and catfish. A member of the MDWFP Fisheries Bureau must verify potential record fish. The program encourages anglers to report any catch they think might break an existing record.
State Parks in Mississippi
In addition to designated fishing parks, Mississippi has a variety of general state parks near popular fishing waters, providing even more options for visiting anglers. Here’s a sampling of some of Mississippi’s top state parks for fishing:
- Buccaneer State Park
- Roosevelt State Park
- Tishomingo State Park
- Percy Quin State Park
- Trace State Park
- Clarkco State Park
- Tombigbee State Park
- Wall Doxey State Park
- Lake Lincoln State Park
- Natchez State Park
These parks, along with others throughout the state, offer unique fishing opportunities in beautiful surroundings.
Mississippi’s Lakes and Reservoirs
Mississippi’s lakes and reservoirs provide exceptional opportunities to catch large fish in distinctive settings. Some major reservoirs, such as Pickwick Lake, are particularly known for species not typically found in the Deep South, such as smallmouth bass. Perched on a rocky bluff overlooking Pickwick Lake, J.P. Coleman State Park is ideal for water sports, including sailing, swimming, skiing, and, of course, fishing for smallmouth bass.
For a more secluded experience, anglers can explore Mississippi’s oxbow lakes and reservoirs near the Mississippi River. These waters, with their moss-draped cypress trees and serene bayous, offer peaceful settings to fish for species like catfish and bass. Popular lakes and reservoirs include:
- Arkabutla Lake
- Bee Lake
- Chotard & Albemarle
- Eagle Lake
- Enid Lake
- Grenada Lake
- Lake Washington
- Ross Barnett Reservoir
Fishing the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway
The Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, including lakes like Aberdeen, Aliceville, Bay Springs, and Columbus, provides great fishing and scenic surroundings. Whether arriving by land or boat, visitors will find plenty of spots to fish, relax, and explore.
Why Mississippi State Parks Are a Great Choice for Anglers
From the foothills of the Smoky Mountains in northeast Mississippi to the oxbow lakes and bayous in the southeast, Mississippi offers diverse fishing parks and camping options. Both fishing and camping are affordable and accessible, making Mississippi a fantastic destination for anglers of all kinds.
With numerous options for record-breaking fish, excellent facilities, and scenic camping areas, Mississippi’s state fishing parks offer everything an angler could want for a memorable experience. Learn more at Visit Mississippi.
