Mississippi Fishing Report Update
Ross Barnett Reservoir
Spillway - Last Updated: 2/28/2008
Wednesday was a definite improvement over recent days, even with the gates sending 11,535 cubic feet of water through the dam every second. That is down from Monday and Tuesday, and the level is beginning to drop in the tailrace. Falling water is good for crappie fishermen in that the fish are pulled back to the edge of the river. Catfish reports fair.
Main Lake - Last Updated: 2/28/2008
UPPER MAIN LAKE:
Nothing to report due to lack of access all week. Storms late last week and then high winds and another front have made open waters treacherous. The lake is extremely stained, from Highway 43 all the way to the dam. Current coming down the lake will produce some good crappie action in the eddy water that forms the Welfare Hole, east of the river at the upper end of the lake. With crappie forced out of the natural bottom neck of the bridge, they will move into that big flat between the river and Safe Harbor. Bass fishing was good in the shallows, but bass were small.
LOWER MAIN LAKE:
Not much to report. Strong north winds have made it impossible to fish the bottom half of the lake from Twin Harbors to the dam. The lake is also very stained, but that would not be a problem for crappie fishermen if the wind would settle. For example, the best crappie action in recent weeks was between 18-25 feet at Rose's Bluff, and at that depth, the water will be clear. Bass fishermen would be wise to hit the riprap banks on the west side as the weekend warms. The rocks get the sun early and warm quickly.
Upper Lake and River - Last Updated: 2/28/2008
ABOVE HIGHWAY 43:
Muddy conditions plague the river channel and some backwaters, but the upper river area provides the best fishing opportunity on the entire system since it offers the only escape from wind. Bass fishing will improve beginning later today and into the weekend as a warming trend begins to affect fish behavior. Bass should begin moving up into the shallow areas. Buck bass are plentiful shallow and big ones could join. Crappie fishing will be slower to improve.
Pelahatchie Bay - Last Updated: 2/28/2008
Trying to find a positive thing to say about the current fishing conditions in the Bay is impossible ... except for maybe, "it's bound to improve." Hey, it certainly can't get much worse. Recent rains have left what is already a muddy part of the reservoir about as dirty as it can get. Runoff has left the Bay looking more like bare ground that water. Add strong winds and cooling water temperatures and you have a situation where fishing is horrible. Trotlining would be good, if you could get on the water.
District 1
Aberdeen Lake - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
ABERDEEN LAKE (TENN-TOM): Lake levels have stabilized, but colder weather and water temps have kept most anglers off the lake this past week. I had one good bass report from last Thursday; spinnerbaits and t-rigged tubes were the hot baits; Buzzard Wing slough and the slough near the marina were the best areas. My crappie anglers are not hitting the lake yet as water temps continue to hover in the high 40s to low 50s. I expect the crappie bite to begin to pick up with warmer weather.
Columbus Lake - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
COLUMBUS LAKE (TENN-TOM): The bass bite is improving with warmer temps. Several sacks in the 11 to 13 lb range were caught this past Saturday in a local tourney. Anglers reportedly caught bass on spinnerbaits and jig-n-pig combos; the Hwy. 50 slough, sloughs off Tibbee Creek and the gravel pits near the ramp were popular areas. The crappie reports are not coming in yet. The bite should improve as weather begins to stabilize and water temps warm up.
Bay Springs - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
BAY SPRINGS: Water temps are in the high 40s, with some 50 degree water reported in the backs of some of the hollows. Bass reports on the Bay are still fair to good. Two sacks in the 19 lb range were brought in a Mt Dew tourney this past Saturday. Quality fish were caught, as 9 bass over 6 lbs were brought in. Suspending jerkbaits were the hot bait, but other anglers still reported a deep bite on drop shots and shaky heads. The crappie anglers are beginning to show up, particularly in Ashcraft Hollow and McDougal Branch. One angler had a nice 30 fish limit last week that included some fish in the 1 to 1.5 lb range. Most anglers are fishing brush tops in 10 to 12 ft of water; jigs have been working bettor than minnows.
Lake Lamar Bruce - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
LAKE LAMAR BRUCE: Water temps are running in the high 40s to low 50s. The crappie reports are starting to improve. Anglers are hitting the stumps on the upper end of the lake that are in 8 to 15 ft of water. Both minnows and jigs are catching fish. The bass reports are few, but fair. Most anglers are hitting deep brush piles that have been sunk off main lake points. Best baits have been texas-rigged lizards (watermelon candy) and shad-colored deep cranks. The bream reports are fair; several anglers are still picking up some nice bream by targeting brush in 10 to 15 ft of water; tight-lining meal worms has been the best technique.
Lake Monroe - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
LAKE MONROE: Water temps are in the high 40s to low 50s. Despite the cold weather, the bass reports were good for the few anglers fishing over the weekend. Good numbers were caught with two bass over 5 lbs brought in. Shallow cranks, suspending jerkbaits and 3/16 oz shaky heads were all good bait choices. Points and deeper banks were the prime areas. The crappie reports have been fair; the one or two crappie anglers that have been out have reported some success trolling multi-colored jigs in 8 to 12 feet of water; target the mainlake points for best results. The catfish bite for a few anglers has been fair, especially late in the evening. The best area is off the end of the boat ramp; liver and nightcrawlers have been best baits. No bream reports to speak of until the water temps start approaching 60 degrees.
Oktibbeha County Lake - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
OKTIBBEHA COUNTY LAKE: The crappie and bass reports continue to be fair to good as water temps continue to warm up. The crappie anglers are starting to pick up some nice fish by targeting deeper water along the creek channel and also hitting the fishing piers. Jigs have been catching more fish than minnows. The bass anglers are primarily hitting the piers on the south shoreline and the riprap along the levee. Best baits have been spinnerbaits, crankbaits and jig-n-pig combos. The catfish anglers have been fishing from the piers and also along the levee. The bite is slow but the quality is good. Best baits have been minnows and cutbait.
Alicevile Lake - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
ALICEVILLE LAKE (TENN-TOM): Bass reports over the weekend were fair. Several reports of bass cruising in shallow water in the Rivermont and Coalfire areas; warmer temps will cause these cruisers to start locking on beds. Texas-rigged lizards, flukes, tubes and frogs will be good bait choices for bedding fish. Crappie and catfish reports have not been coming in yet. The crappie anglers around Pratt’s should start showing up around the first of March. The white bass reports should start picking up in the next few weeks as water temps continue to warm; target the spillway below Columbus Dam and Luxapalila Creek to get in on the white bass run.
Lake Lowndes - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
LAKE LOWNDES STATE PARK: Water temps are running around the 58 degree mark. Best reports this week are from the crappie and bass anglers. For crappie, best areas have been sunken brush in 9 to 12 ft of water with both jigs and minnows catching fish. Most crappie are running around ¾ to 1 lb and are 11 to 12 in long. The bass reports have been good, with most bass averaging about 1.5 lbs. The deeper banks that have any wood on them have been the best areas; t-rigged plastic worms, trick worms and shallow to mid-running crankbaits have been best baits. The bream reports have not started coming in yet, but should pick up with warming water temps.
JP Coleman/Pickwick Lake - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
PICKWICK LAKE/J. P. COLEMAN: Pickwick Lake elevation: 411 ft; water temps are in the high 40s with some 50 degree water in some areas. I’ve had a few good reports from bass anglers targeting bluff walls with crankbaits and jerkbaits. Don’t expect a lot of bites, but the few are quality bass. The hydrilla from Panther Creek to Dry Creek is still holding good numbers of 10 to 14 inch bass; best baits for these areas are jerkbaits, rattletraps and shaky head plastics. The sauger bite is still fair below the dam, although the best action is being reported near Shiloh. The crappie reports have been sporadic at best. A few anglers are reporting good catches in 15 to 25 feet of water with tube and hair jigs; Yellow Creek has been a popular area, with Indian Creek not far behind.
For current lake levels and current generation schedules, go to
http://www.lakeinfo.tva.gov/htbin/lakeinfo?site=PKH&DataType=All&SUBMIT=View+data
Trace State Park - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
TRACE STATE PARK: The bass reports have been good to fair; it took around 19 lbs to win a local tourney this past weekend. Numbers of bass are being caught on jerkbaits and t-rigged plastics; the quality bite has been on swim baits and deep crankbaits. The crappie reports have been good to fair depending on who you talk to. Crappie are still deep, with most being caught out of 15 to 25 feet of water near points and drops. Good electronics are a must right now. The bream bite is not “on” yet, but that can change in the next few weeks. The ditches and creek channels adjacent to spawning areas will load up with pre-spawn bream; tight-lining meal worms is the best technique for targeting these pre-spawn fish.
Tippah County Lake - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
TIPPAH COUNTY LAKE: Water temps are running in the high 40s to low 50s; lake levels are at full pool for the first time since last year. The bass and crappie anglers are beginning to report some good catches. The bass anglers are picking up a few fish by beating the banks with t-rigged lizards and worms. The crappie anglers are trolling minnows and jigs along the creek channel. A few anglers are hitting sunken brush tops with some success; brush tops are in 12 to 18 ft of water. The bream reports are from the bank anglers that are tight-lining meal worms or nightcrawlers off the fishing piers. The numbers aren’t quite there yet but a few good redear have been caught. The catfish reports have not started coming in, and in hopes of increasing angler catch rates, MDWFP stocked 4,500 channel catfish last week.
Tombigbee State Park - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
TOMBIGBEE STATE PARK: Some good bream reports continue to come in from this NE MS park. Both bank and boat anglers are reporting success in deeper water (8 to 18 ft) off the piers and the mouths of the coves. Tight-lining mealworms or nightcrawlers has been the best technique. The crappie and bass bite has been fair. The crappie are coming out of deeper water near the points. One angler was able to pick up a few fish by trolling minnows off points in 8 to 15 ft of water. The bass anglers are hitting shoreline structure on the deeper banks and picking up a few fish. Best baits are jig-n-pig combos and 1/8 oz shaky head worms.
Elvis Presley Lake - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
ELVIS PRESLEY LAKE: Lake levels are still down around 3 to 4 feet; gravel and brush has been added in select areas. A few anglers were out over the last week with crappie and bass getting most of the attention. Crappie are coming out of deeper water off of points and near the dam; best depths have been 12 to 18 ft, with both minnows and jigs catching fish. Bass anglers are fishing these same areas and using Carolina-rigged plastics and t-rigged finesse worms to catch a few keepers; the quality bite has been tough to come by.
District 2
Arkabutla - Last Updated: 2/26/2008
FISHING MISSISSIPPI
LATE WINTER SEASON
Water level 211.37, falling 0.1 ft/day, murky to muddy. For water level information, call (662)562-6261 or check http://www.mvk.usace.army.mil/riverstage/bullet.txt. Best reports here are for catfish with trotlines fished over the flats the best method. Also, fish worms or stink baits in the river and creeks if we get any rain runoff. There have been a few reports of crappie from certain holes, but nothing consistent yet. The lake is 1.4 ft above rule curve*; it’s supposed to be at winter pool (210 ft).
The spillway had one gate open 4 ft (500 cfs) Tuesday. A few crappie can be taken with or without bait. For spillway fishing regulations, check http://www.mdwfp.com/forums/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=35598
Effective August 6, 2007: On Arkabutla Lake, Enid Lake, Grenada Lake and Sardis Lake the daily creel limit for crappie will be 20 per person. The minimum length limit for crappie at these lakes will be 12 inches. Anglers fishing Arkabutla Lake, Enid Lake and Sardis Lake may use no more than 5 poles per person. Grenada Lake anglers may use no more than 3 poles per person. The 12 inch length limits do not apply to these reservoir spillways. However, these spillways, including Sardis Lower Lake, will have a 20 fish creel limit.
*The low water last year allowed colonization of vegetation on mudflats to be flooded this year (hopefully). This vegetation will provide cover for small fishes and pump nutrients into the water as it decays. Woody vegetation provides long term fish habitat. Much of the original cover on the flood control reservoirs drowned from prolonged flooding in 1973. Cypresses, buttonbush, and other "buckbrush" recolonized in the mid-to late 1980's, but drowned from flooding in 1989 and 1991. High water provides a short term boost to fisheries, but does more long term damage to fish than low water by destroying habitat.
Sardis Lake - Last Updated: 2/26/2008
FISHING MISSISSIPPI
LATE WINTER SEASON
Water level 241.27, rising 0.2 ft/day, murky to muddy. For water level information, call (662)563-4531 or check http://www.mvk.usace.army.mil/riverstage/bullet.txt. Wyatt’s Crossing Outdoors (662)551-2399 will reopen March 1. White bass have started moving upriver and can be taken with jigs or in-line spinners over sand bars. Some good crappie reports this weekend from the Hurricane Creek area with 10 - 20+ keepers per boat fishing in the river. The ramp at the Indian Mound has no water on it; you have to launch off the gravel into the river. Long’s Sporting Goods and Quick Stop (662)487-2187 has heard few reports from the upper lake, but a few folks have been trolling around the marina and Engineer’s Point for crappie with bright colored jigs and/or minnows. A few white bass can be taken by the corner of the dam in front of the spillway or off Engineer’s Point where they can be taken on shad-imitating jigs, spoons, or crankbaits. No reports on bass or catfish. The lake is 0.5 ft over rule curve*.
The spillway had 2 gates open 1.0 ft each (450 cfs) Tuesday. Despite the flow being cut back, crappie are being landed in the spillway with or without bait. Best luck has been on black/red jigs tipped with minnows. For spillway fishing regulations, check http://www.mdwfp.com/forums/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=35598
Effective August 6, 2007: On Arkabutla Lake, Enid Lake, Grenada Lake and Sardis Lake the daily creel limit for crappie will be 20 per person. The minimum length limit for crappie at these lakes will be 12 inches. Anglers fishing Arkabutla Lake, Enid Lake and Sardis Lake may use no more than 5 poles per person. Grenada Lake anglers may use no more than 3 poles per person. The 12 inch length limits do not apply to these reservoir spillways. However, these spillways, including Sardis Lower Lake, will have a 20 fish creel limit.
*The low water last year allowed colonization of vegetation on mudflats to be flooded this year (hopefully). This vegetation will provide cover for small fishes and pump nutrients into the water as it decays. Woody vegetation provides long term fish habitat. Much of the original cover on the flood control reservoirs drowned from prolonged flooding in 1973. Cypresses, buttonbush, and other "buckbrush" recolonized in the mid-to late 1980's, but drowned from flooding in 1989 and 1991. High water provides a short term boost to fisheries, but does more long term damage to fish than low water by destroying habitat.
Enid Lake - Last Updated: 2/26/2008
FISHING MISSISSIPPI
LATE WINTER SEASON
Water level 234.27, rising 0.06 ft/day, murky. For water level information, call (662)563- 4571 or check http://www.mvk.usace.army.mil/riverstage/bullet.txt. Best luck for crappie will likely be fishing jigs and/or minnows over brush tops in Wallace and Hubbard Creeks or trolling the main lake. Fish for bass in similar cover with a jig-n-pig or slow rolled spinnerbait. White bass should be moving upriver if we get a warming trend. The lake is 0.5 ft below rule curve*.
The spillway had one gate open 0.25 ft (50 cfs) Tuesday. A few crappie are being landed with or without bait. For spillway fishing regulations, check http://www.mdwfp.com/forums/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=35598
Effective August 6, 2007: On Arkabutla Lake, Enid Lake, Grenada Lake and Sardis Lake the daily creel limit for crappie will be 20 per person. The minimum length limit for crappie at these lakes will be 12 inches. Anglers fishing Arkabutla Lake, Enid Lake and Sardis Lake may use no more than 5 poles per person. Grenada Lake anglers may use no more than 3 poles per person. The 12 inch length limits do not apply to these reservoir spillways. However, these spillways, including Sardis Lower Lake, will have a 20 fish creel limit.
*The low water last year allowed colonization of vegetation on mudflats to be flooded this year (hopefully). This vegetation will provide cover for small fishes and pump nutrients into the water as it decays. Woody vegetation provides long term fish habitat. Much of the original cover on the flood control reservoirs drowned from prolonged flooding in 1973. Cypresses, buttonbush, and other "buckbrush" recolonized in the mid-to late 1980's, but drowned from flooding in 1989 and 1991. High water provides a short term boost to fisheries, but does more long term damage to fish than low water by destroying habitat.
Grenada Lake - Last Updated: 2/26/2008
FISHING MISSISSIPPI
LATE WINTER SEASON
Water level 197.90, rising 0.08 ft/day, murky to muddy. For water level information, call (662)226-5911 or check http://www.mvk.usace.army.mil/riverstage/bullet.txt. Collins Bait Shop (662)226-3581 reports a few folks have been fishing and catching some crappie. Best reports are from Choctaw to Young’s Landings fishing the edges of the river channel 4 - 5 ft deep with a red/chartreuse or black/chartreuse jig. White bass should be moving up the rivers if we get a warming trend. The lake is 0.2 ft above rule curve*.
The spillway had one gate open 1.0 ft (200 cfs) Tuesday. Small catfish were being caught on various natural baits until the gates were cut back. Crappie fishing has also slowed down here with the gates cut back, but a few are being landed with or without bait. For spillway fishing regulations, check http://www.mdwfp.com/forums/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=35598
Effective August 6, 2007: On Arkabutla Lake, Enid Lake, Grenada Lake and Sardis Lake the daily creel limit for crappie will be 20 per person. The minimum length limit for crappie at these lakes will be 12 inches. Anglers fishing Arkabutla Lake, Enid Lake and Sardis Lake may use no more than 5 poles per person. Grenada Lake anglers may use no more than 3 poles per person. The 12 inch length limits do not apply to these reservoir spillways. However, these spillways, including Sardis Lower Lake, will have a 20 fish creel limit.
*The low water last year allowed colonization of vegetation on mudflats to be flooded this year (hopefully). This vegetation will provide cover for small fishes and pump nutrients into the water as it decays. Woody vegetation provides long term fish habitat. Much of the original cover on the flood control reservoirs drowned from prolonged flooding in 1973. Cypresses, buttonbush, and other "buckbrush" recolonized in the mid-to late 1980's, but drowned from flooding in 1989 and 1991. High water provides a short term boost to fisheries, but does more long term damage to fish than low water by destroying habitat.
Tunica Cutoff - Last Updated: 2/26/2008
FISHING MISSISSIPPI
LATE WINTER SEASON
The Mississippi River was at 25.1 ft Tuesday; it should fall quickly through the week and bottom out and stabilize about 19.6 ft this weekend. For the river level and 5 day forecast, call (901)544-0415 or check http://www.mvk.usace.army.mil/riverstage/bullet.txt. Charlie’s Camp (662)363-1353 bait shop is still closed for the season. The ramp is open; please use the honor box. Fishing is generally best here on a slow fall, toughest on a fast rise. Fishing peaks about a month later than on other area waters due to the cooler river water. With the water cool and falling fast, your best bet is to fish jigs and/or minnows for crappie in the outside edges of cover. Some catfish should be biting in the runout.
Memphis District Corps officials allow anglers to set out brush/tree fish habitat on Tunica. The lake desperately needs cover at lower water levels. Set them 5 to 15 ft deep at minimum pool (about 5 ft on the gauge at Charlie's Camp). Set them at different depths since fish may hold shallower or deeper depending on light, temperature, and oxygen. If you mark them by triangulation or GPS, you should have your own fishing hot spots. Although cedar is usually considered best, some crappie experts report sycamore and hackberry (both plentiful in the Delta) are excellent at drawing fish. Thanks for your help in improving fish habitat.
Horn Lake - Last Updated: 2/26/2008
FISHING MISSISSIPPI
LATE WINTER SEASON
The Lakeview Boat Dock (662)781-1550 reports the runout to the river is still open and raising the water level. The cold river water coming in has shut down fishing in the runout. A few reports have mentioned white bass coming from the main lake, but very little other than that. As water levels stabilize and temperatures rise, look for fishing to improve.
Flower Lake - Last Updated: 2/26/2008
FISHING MISSISSIPPI
LATE WINTER SEASON
No reports. The concrete ramp has been removed.
Leroy Percy State Park - Last Updated: 12/11/2007
ALLIGATOR LAKE - located behind the Lodge
WINTER FISHING: Weekly fishing reports will return in February. Until then: Cool weather fishing for catfish can be productive. A variety of cutbaits fished on the bottom will trigger strikes. For bass and bream, find structure around the deep channels. Bass tend to hold just off the structure while bream hold tight. Vertical jigging techniques work for bass and live bait is productive for bream
A map of the lake can be found at the MDWFP web page: www.mdwfp.com/fisheries/
Leroy Percy State Park offers cabins to rent, and has pads for RV or tent camping with electricity and water, laundry and showers. The park has a snack bar that serves hot sandwiches for lunch and a buffet on Sundays.
Creel limit on bass is 2 per day.
Lake Charlie Capps - Last Updated: 9/27/2007
LAKE CHARLIE CAPPS - (formerly Bolivar County Lake)
LAKE IS CLOSED TO FISHING Lake Capps was drained to aid in renovation.
Bee Lake - Last Updated: 2/28/2008
BEE LAKE
According to Mrs. Bell at Bell's Store on Bee Lake(662-235-5930) crappie fishing has been sporatic lately mostly due to wind and cold making it hard to fish. (Water temperature has DROPPED 5 degrees in the past week). Prior to recent cold weather catches were good, some persons were catching fish by wading, but not now. Mrs. bell expects this weekend to be good with the warm weather expected. Those fish that have been caught have been real nice size with some 2+ pound fish. Best catches have been early morning or evening (after 6) when the wind is not as strong. Best catches have been on minnow & jig combination. Best jigs have been rubber blue body / white tail. Also fishermen are catching a few (1-2) catfish with the crappie.
Water level at Bee Lake is 7.35 feet. Water temperature is 51 degrees and falling, and water clarity is turbid. Go to the USGS website http://waterdata.usgs.gov/ms/nwis/uv/?site_no=330359090194135 to get information on water level, water temperature and visibility from the USGS gauge on the bridge at Bee Lake.)
The top and sides of the ramp at bell's Store have been repaired, but work on the lower end is waiting for contractor.
Delta Wildlife Foundation has worked with local landowners to install 37 sediment retention structures to reduce erosion. That will reduce the occurance and intensity of muddy water and as such lake productivity and fish stock should increase.
Bee lake is located about 20 miles north of Yazoo City on US Route 49E. A fee ramp is available for use at Bells Store.
Lake Washington - Last Updated: 2/28/2008
LAKE WASHINGTON
According to Ms. Pam Hammond at Roy’s Store on Lake Washington (662-827-2588)crappie are being caught trolling in the deep water in the middle of the lake, but the cold weather and wind has made for hard fishing with low catches. Warm weather predicted for this weekend (3/1). Catfish have not turned on yet.
A generally good jig for crappie on Lake Washington has black body with red head and chartreuse tail. Slow trolling can be productive on warmer winter days.
Keep your eyes open for the tagged cats. "Catch a Tagged Catfish for Bucks" is a promotion offered by Roy's Store with sponsorship by Budweizer, Lowes, Farm Bureau, Bostick Brothers, Pepsi, Guaranty bank, Allstar Motors, Ceranti-Oakes Toyota, Washington County Farm Bureau, Longwood Flying Service, Delta Democrat Times and Lake Washington Landowners Foundation. MDWFP tagged and released catfish in 2005, 2006 and 2007 to promote catfish harvest on Lake Washington. Those that catch a tagged catfish should take the entire fish with tag to Roy's to see if they have won either a T-shirt, vendor product, or cash prises up to $500.
Tagged Catfish caught in 2007: "Huey Cat" the catfish sponsored by Guaranty Bank, with a $250 reward;$495 for catching a tagged catfish sponsored by Budweiser, $100 from a tagged catfish sponsored by Seranti-Oaks toyota, and several other catfish each with $10 rewards have also been caught.
Anglers please note that on Lake Washington the limit on crappie is 30 but only 5 crappie can be kept that are under 10 inches in length, the limit on bream is 100, and the limit on bass is 5, but only 2 bass can be less than 15 inches in length. Last fall the size of many of the crappie were slightly under 10 inches.
- Regulations concerning fishing of YO-YO'S - Over the last several years the MDWFP received many letters from residents and nonresidents about yo-yo's and limb lines at Lake Washington. Most of the people complained that too much gear was being left in the water tied to trees, hindering access to their fishing spots. Other letters listed complaints that people were fishing more than the legal limit of yo-yo's; that some people were exceeding the legal daily and possession creel limits; that people were seeing many dead fish out of the water captured by yo-yo's; that some anglers were running other people lines and that some anglers were discourteous. To enhance enforcement efforts fishing regulations (Public Notice 3428) were changed to require yo-yo's on Lake Washington to be tagged and attended during daylight hours.
Yo-Yo Tagging Requirements - Yo-Yo's must have a waterproof or metal tag attached to the line above the water surface. The tags shall be furnished by the angler and must contain all of the following information: the angler's full name, full residence address including zip code of the angler. This information must be legibly written with waterproof ink, legibly inscribed or legibly stamped on the tag. Yo-Yo Attendance Requirements: Yo-yo's must be attended on Lake Washington. Attended means devices must remain within sight of the angler during daylight hours.
Online Map
A description and a map of this lake can be seen at the internet address - Http://www.outfitters.org Click on public waters and then click on Lake Washington under "more area lake maps".
Lake Ferguson - Last Updated: 2/28/2008
LAKE FERGUSON
According to Terry Bates at Big River Guide Service (662-390-3886) the river is up very high - Too high for fishermen.
For the weekend of March 1 the River level near Lake Ferguson is predicted to be 40 feet (Greenville gage) on a fast fall. Go to rivergages.com for a web site with current water level predictions."Fall is one of the best times to go fishing, the weather and water has cooled down and the fish are usually biting. BREAM - For Bream try fishing around rocky banks, boats ramps, rock piles, medal barge piling, and alongside permanent work barges. Fish with crickets and worms. BASS - In deeper water, 8 to 12 feet,try using a Berkley 10" power worm or 10" Gulp turtle back worm, a Carolina Rig with 5"-6" lizard's, shaky head worm in watermelon candy, or green pumpkin candy. This little worm is a lot of fun to fish, it usually will catch a lot of fish, and if it’s a tuff day, it’ll catch fish when nothing else will. CATFISH - Catfish will continue to hang around the grain elevators. If anyone would like to go fishing in the Greenville area or need more information, call Terry Bates at Big River Guide Service at 662/390/3886. Good Fishing"
Largemouth bass Virus has been identified from bass collected in Lake Ferguson. Please do not transfer fish from this lake to another body of water and see the link below for methods to disinfect your live well with bleach. For more information, please go to www.mdwfp.com/LMBV.asp
Online Map
For a general map of the lake go to Http://www.outfitters.org Click on public waters and then click on Lake Ferguson under "more area lake maps".
For a description of boat ramps see "Mississippi River" report
Moon Lake - Last Updated: 2/19/2008
MOON LAKE
According to local Conservation Officer Whit Read Bass bass are being caught on carolina or texas rigged worms fished slow. Crappie have not turned on that much yet.
HARVEST RESTRICTION
Bass - creel limit of 2
Crappie - Creel limit of 30, but only 5 crappie can be possessed that are less than 10 inches in length. It has been reported that the lenghts of a fair number of the crappie are slightly less than 10 inches.
Online Map
A description and a map of this lake can be seen at the internet address Http://www.outfitters.org Click on public waters and then click on Moon Lake under "more area lake maps". A depth profile map is available from Dept. Wildlife Fisheries & Parks: go to Fisheries at http://www.mdwfp.com/level2/Fisheries/pdf/maps/
Desoto - Last Updated: 2/28/2008
DESOTO LAKE
According to Warren Rico at Rico's in Rena Lara (662-624-4980) the river is up very high - Too high for fishermen on DeSoto Lake.
For the weekend of March 1 23 the River level near DeSoto Lake is predicted to be 28 feet (Helena gage) on a fast fall. Go to rivergages.com for a web site with current water level predictions.
NOTE, Boaters need to be VERY cautious in the chute at levels below 10 feet at Helena as ROCK HAS BEEN PLACED IN THE OUTLET to prevent head-cutting in the chute from work done to reinforce the eroding banks along the river. THE ROCK WAS LEVELED IN EARLY OCTOBER 2007 TO A ELEVATION EQUIVALENT TO ABOUT 6 FEET ON THE HELENA GAGE . This work also increased low water level on DeSoto Lake by about 2 feet.
For river lakes, the fluctuations of the Mississippi River is an important factor for determining how the fishing is going to be. Slow rises and slow falls produce the best fishing. The best crappie fishing on DeSoto Lake is at water levels between 16-18 feet (Helena Gauge).
Online Map
For a general map go to Http://www.outfitters.org Click on public waters and then click on Desoto Lake under "more area lake maps".
For a description of boat ramps see "Mississippi River" report
Lake Whittington - Last Updated: 2/28/2008
LAKE WHITTINGTON
The river is up very high - Too high for fishermen. contact Mr. Yung at Beulah Store (662-759-6691)for current conditions. But bass anglers should try their luck on the open flats on the Ark. side.
For the weekend of March 1 the River level near Lake Whittington is predicted to be 26 feet (Ark. City gage) on a fast fall. Go to rivergages.com for a web site with current water level predictions.
try trolling for crappie with minnows or jigs in deep water around pilings off Goat Island, or pilings along Little Man Boat ramp. Fish the big bass bite with vertical jigging techniques around deep water structure adjacent to bluffs of Goat Island or rip-rap banks.
Largemouth bass Virus has been identified from bass collected in Lake Whittington. Please do not transfer fish from this lake to another body of water and see the link below for methods to disinfect your live well with bleach. For more information go to www.mdwfp.com/LMBV.asp
Anglers can navigate the chute to/from the river when the river is at, or above, 6 feet on the Arkansas City Gauge, but they should be careful of snags when doing so. As the river drops below 6 feet access through the chute gets extremely difficult and treacherous, and Boaters are advised not to try to navigate the chute when the river is below 6 feet ( Arkansas City Gauge). When the lake is at a level equivalent to 6 feet (Ark. City Gauge) one can get from one end of the lake to the other, but anglers need to be aware that at this water level very shallow water is present at the flats at Burnt Island (up lake from Benoit Outing Club & Goat Island). At a lake level equivalent to 3 feet (Ark. City Gauge) a narrow channel runs through the flats at Burnt Island; and very shallow water is present above the ironwood forest (begins where the barge is at below the Outing Club), and further down the lake in the flat below the old pump pier (where the poles are). Although reference is made to lake level from RIVER level on the Arkansas City Gauge the two may not be the same at stages below 16 feet as the constriction at the chute causes a delay in the falling, or rising, of the lake. Anglers should also take note that when the river is on a fast fall (or rise) a large difference in elevation may be present between the lake and the river. This can create such a high water velocity in the narrow chute that boats with large outboards will find it difficult to navigate and impossible for small outboards to negotiate.
Lake has two fee ramps open to the public: Nebletts Landing (dificult to launch when water level is below 11 feet equivalent to Ark. City Gauge) and Little Man's (closed at high water).
Online Map
Fish attractors for low water fishing were placed in this lake many years ago. For a map of the lake and location of the fish attractors go to Http://www.outfitters.org Click on public waters and then click on Lake Whittington under "more area lake maps".
Beulah Lake - Last Updated: 2/28/2008
LAKE BEULAH
Lake Beulah is at a relatively high elevation compared to other Mississippi River oxbow lakes. As such this lake may not be flooded, or have good fishing, when other oxbow lakes are too high for good fishing, or Beulah may be stable when other lakes are falling. The controlling elevation is 18-19 feet on the Arkansas City Gauge. When the river is below 18 feet the water level of the lake is stable. Between 18-20 feet lake level is controlled by drainage through culvert in dam. Above 24 feet lake rises/falls close to same rate as changes in river. Go to rivergages.com for a web site with current water level predictions.
The river is very high - but is falling and by middle of next week it should be close to where it will not drop as fast as the river. Week before last fishermen were trolling the big bluehole (located on Ark. side aross from fee boat ramp) contact Mr. Yung at Beulah Store (662-759-6691) for current conditions.
For the weekend of March 1 the River level near Beulah Lake is predicted to be 26 feet (Ark. City gage) on a fast fall rise. Go to rivergages.com for a web site with current water level predictions.
A description and a general map of this lake can be seen at the internet address - Http://www.outfitters.org Click on public waters and then click on Lake Beulah under "more area lake maps".
Round Lake - Last Updated: 12/15/2007
LITTLE ROUND LAKE
Winter Fishing: Weekly updates will return in February. Until then, try your luck with catfish. Cutbaits, fished on the bottom on the coldest days can produce nice stringers. Good luck
Little Round Lake is located off US Hwy 49 E about 2 miles north of Sidon, Ms. The lake shore is owned and is being developed by Leflore County for recreation. The MDWFP has built a concrete boat ramp and a fishing pier on this lake. The pier should have shade during late afternoon.
District 3
Chotard and Albermarle - Last Updated: 2/28/2008
CHOTARD
.
The river is up very high - Too high for fishermen. Contact Mickey Laney at Laney's Fishing Camp (601-279-4291) for current conditions.
For the weekend of march 1 the River level near Chotard Lake is predicted to be 35 feet (Vicksburg gage) on a moderate fall. Go to rivergages.com for a web site with current water level predictions. .
For most boats access to the river is near impossible when the River is below 13 feet (Vicksburg Gauge).
Online Map
A description and a map of this lake can be seen at the internet address - Http://www.outfitters.org Click on public waters and then click on Lake Albermarle or Chotard under "more area lake maps".
Yazoo River - Yazoo City - Last Updated: 2/19/2008
YAZOO RIVER -
The top of the last slab of the boat ramp at Yazoo City is near 8 feet on the Yazoo City Gauge and that slab is 21 feet long; with a 12% slope the end of the ramp should be near a level equivalent to 5.5 feet on the Yazoo City gauge. Go to rivergages.com or www.srh.noaa.gov/lmrfc/forecast/tributaries for a web site with current water level predictions.
Greenwood - A new two lane boat ramp with an asphalt parking lot has been built in Greenwood. This ramp gives boaters access to the Yazoo River, and heading upstream, the Tallahatchie, and Yalobusha Rivers. The ramp is located in downtown Greenwood, on the west bank of the Yazoo River between the bridges by the courthouse.
Wolf Lake - Last Updated: 12/15/2007
WOLF LAKE
Winter Fishing: Weekly updates will return in February. Until then try these tips. Crappie will suspend around deep structure during cold winter days. Minnow-tipped jigs fished tight in the deep brush will produce. Bass will be close by. Soft plastics fished very slowly will temp cold weather bass. On warm sunny days, shallow diving crankbaits fished in the shallows will catch bass trying to warm up on the flats. Catfish will take cutbaits on the deeper flats.
HARVEST RESTRICTIONS
Bass - Creel limit of 2
Crappie - creel limit of 30; bream creel limit of 100
ACCESS
Lake View Store and Deli - on Hwy 149 (was 49W) - good quality ramp - fee
Ivanhoe Landing - steep - Public. Take road to Carter (first rd to right past Yazoo River Bridge on Hwy 149 (old 49W) heading north from Yazoo City) Turn left at Gin, turn right at first paved rd. Ramp will be on your left at a bridge.
Online Map
A description and a map of this lake can be seen at the internet address - Http://www.outfitters.org Click on public waters and then click on Wolf Lake under "more area lake maps".
Mississippi River Gauges - Last Updated: 2/28/2008
MISSISSIPPI RIVER
CAUTION: THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER IS A BIG RIVER WITH VERY FAST AND STRONG CURRENTS. TAKE CARE WHEN FISHING OR BOATING. (See more below) But the river can offer opportunities for good fishing in an exciting environment
For info on fishing the Mississippi see the MDWFP Fishing Forum (www.mdwfp.com\forum): 11/7/07 post titled "catfishing on MS River" for information on tackle and boats; 4/06/07 post "caught some cats yesterday" about fishing eddies with rod & reel; 5/11/07 post "garlic for catfish" about trotline bait
Predicted River levels for weekend of 3/01/08 are:
GAUGE - LEVEL - RATE OF CHANGE
Memphis- 20' fast fall
Helena 28' fast fall
Arkansas City- 26' fast fall
Greenville- 40' fast fall
Vicksburg- 35' moderate fall
Natchez- 43' slow fall
Key to rate of change: Fast rise/fall - river levels change more than 1 ft. per day. Moderate rise/fall - levels change between .5 and 1 ft. per day. Slow rise/fall - levels change less than .5 ft. per day. Steady - levels remain within +/- 0.1 feet between adjacent days
for an update on current river levels see rivergages.com
BOATING SUGGESTIONS - When fishing in the river use a boat with the size and horsepower appropriate for the current. (Remember the river as it passes Mississippi drains almost 1/2 of the continental U.S. That is a lot of water that can be moving extremely fast.) Try to go up-stream from the boat ramp and try not to cross the river if you don't have too. Give barges a wide bearth, they are too big to be able to stop and in constricted waters they have the right of way . The wake behind a barge can be very dangerous, and at certain river conditions barges create dangerous turbulance for quite a large distance behind them. WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKET AT ALL TIMES WHEN BOATING OR FISHING IN FAST CURRENT.
BOAT RAMP INFORMATION:
Helena - End of boat ramp - N34.52179 – W090.58259 (north side of low water ramp) – the end of the ramp on the north side is at a level equivalent to approximately -4.5 feet on the Helena gauge. The end of the slab is 110 feet from the end of the parking area located on the slope of the ramp. The north side of the ramp extends farther and deeper than the south side. The ramp has an 8.5/1 slope.This ramp is in the river park. Take US 49 Business to second traffic light and turn right. You will pass the court house and the WWI memorial. Top of ramp - N33.52163 – W090.581582
Quapaw Landing - End of boat ramp - N34.26344 – W090.74493, a level equivalent to approximately 0 feet on the Helena gauge. The ramp has an 7.1feet / 1feet slope. This ramp is 9-10 miles west of Rt 1 at Farrell; turnoff to ramp is 1-1 ½ miles past crossing of main line levee. Look for crossing over spur levee. The ramp is on the chute to Island 63. Access to the river is open to about -2 feet on the Helena Gauge (with 3' depth over shoal)
DeSoto Lake, Hill House Ramp - End of boat ramp - N34.13525 – W090.84303 (east side of low water ramp) – the end of the ramp on the east side is at a level equivalent to approximately 1 feet on the Helena gauge. The end of the slab is 61 feet from the top of the eastern slab that is below the line of mature willow trees, or 31 ½ feet below end of that slab, or 18 feet from top of last slab on west side. The east side of the ramp has a 1.2 foot drop-off. The west side of the ramp is covered in semi-firm sand that drops off at the following rate – 3’ deep at 9’ out; 4’ at 13’; and 4.7’ at 17’. (P.S. This sand was not there in 2004, so it may not be there in the future.) The middle section of the ramp has an 7.55’/1’ slope, the last slab on the west has a 4.25’/1’ slope, while the upper section, that portion to the willow trees, has a 15.6’/1 slope. NOTE: Boaters need to be VERY cautious of rock wall in the chute at levels 8- 10 feet (Helena gauge).
DeSoto Lake, DeSoto Landing Park Ramp - End of boat ramp - N34.16040 – W090.80569 - the end of the ramp is at a level equivalent to approximately 1.5 feet on the Helena gauge. The end of the slab is 65 feet from the top of the slab that is nearest to the line of mature willow trees. The ramp ends in firm sand that drops off at the following rate – 3’ deep at 9’; 4’ at 12’; The ramp has a 7.35’/1’ slope, with the last 9 feet of the ramp having a 4.5’/1’. Top of ramp - N33.15988 – W090.80501
Dennis Landing - Directions turn west on paved road 1.7 mile north of jct Hwy 32 and 1. It is 3.5 miles to ramp- bear to the right where pavement ends, ramp is 1 mile, bear left on levee, then run down spur levee. The end of the ramp is near 1 foot on the Arkansas City gauge, but the end of the ramp sits on a maticulated concrete mattress. Dennis landing near River Mile 610, 10 ½ miles upstream of the “new” mouth of the White River; and 15 miles downstream from chute to DeSoto Lake.
Log-Loader Lake (Port of Rosedale) - End of boat ramp – N33.81910 - W091.02115 - the end of the ramp is at a level equivalent to approximately -1 on the Arkansas City Gauge. The end of the slab is 81 ½ feet from the broken off end of the curve that is on the north side of the ramp. There is a ½ foot drop off from the slab onto a firm bottom that slopes off at .2 feet per foot. Slope of the ramp drops 0.15 foot per foot. The wide part of the ramp ends at N33.81926 – W091.02097 – the ramp continues on the north side - this spot is 30 feet from first break in curve on north side of ramp. Top of ramp – N 33.81987 – W091.02041 – equivalent to 50 feet on the Ark. City Gauge. Log Loader Lake is located at the Port of Rosedale. The port is located on the south side of town, off route 1.
Lake Ferguson (Main St.)- End of boat ramp - ??? – The best low water access is middle ramp: this ramp is between the words ‘city’ and ‘of’ in signage on levee that reads “Greenville Port City of the Delta”. At lake level equivalent to 11 feet on the Greenville gauge a boater has 23 feet of good ramp that will drop down 2.9 feet deep (this point is N33.41211 – W091.06781 and is 24 feet from the end of the small hump in the middle of the ramp). Another slab is beyond this point but it has slipped on a drop-off. There is a ½ foot drop off to this slab and the slab is on a much steeper slope.The end of the parking lot is equivalent to 9.5 feet Greenville gauge and it has a sharp drop of 1 foot or more. The end of the parking lot is in line with the break between the 2nd and third triangular canopies to the gangway of the Bayou Caddy Casino. Top of ramp - N33.41158 – W091.06674
Lake Ferguson, New Public Ramp - End of boat ramp – N33.41211 – W091.06166 – the end of the ramp is at a level equivalent to approximately 8 feet on the Greenville gauge. The end of the slab is 14 feet from the end of the curb (the end of the curb is very close to level equivalent to 11 ft., Greenville gauge). In 2005 there was a ½ foot drop off into moderately firm sand. Top of ramp – N33.41832 – W091.06084 – equivalent to 50 feet Greenville gauge
Eagle Lake - Last Updated: 2/27/2008
The updated depth map with coordinates of fish attractors are now available at: http://mdwfp.com/level2/Fisheries/ pdf/maps/ Crappie are being caught on shiners and jigs fished off the ends of the deeper piers and along the edge of the channel. Largemouth bass are scattered. Try plastics and jigs in structure close to deep water and around pad stems in the lower arm. Bream can be caught off the ends of the deeper piers, especially piers with added struture. Fish jigs or wroms trying different depths from 6 to 12 feet. Catfish are slow, but a few can be caught on trotlines and limblines in and around the cyress trees near Float Row using cutbait. Hybrid stripers can be caught trolling crankbaits and tailspinners along flats next to the channel from the boat ramp to Muddy Bayou and above and below Garfield's ramp.
District 4
Okatibbee Reservoir - Last Updated: 2/29/2008
Lake level is at 341.42. Discharge is currently at 580 cubic feet per second.
Crappie fishing has been good. Try fishing deeper areas of the lake with jigs and minnows. Bass have been biting on spinner baits in the flats. Catfish can be caught in deeper waters especially along the dam using trot lines baited with cutbait.
Lake Tom Bailey - Last Updated: 2/12/2008
Fish for bass using deep diving crankbaits and other deep water lures around the drain structure in the creek channel. Numerous bass should be piled up in that area. Try for bass along the willows in the lake with soft plastics and jigs. Also try along the levee on sunny days when the water along the rocks has a chance to warm up.
It is no surprise that the crappie are stacked up on the willow trees. Fish the deepest water with submerged willow trees and the creek channel to find them. Jigs and minnows are the baits of choice.
Bream are plentiful and you can catch one after another tight-lining with red worms.
Catfish are available too. Try tightlining in the creek channel using liver, stinkbait or night crawlers.
Camping is available for overnight stays.
A depth/bottom map is available showing locations of fish attractors and other lake features. The link to our lake map page is:
http://www.mdwfp.com/level2/Fisheries/pdf/maps/
Clarkco State Park - Last Updated: 2/27/2007
Water is very clear. We have had several nice bass caught this past week in the 4-6lb range. The bait of choice seems to be a deep running crank bait. A few good catches on crappie have been reported, while the bream have been hit and miss.
A depth/bottom map is available. The link to our lake map page is:
http://www.mdwfp.com/level2/Fisheries/pdf/maps/
Kemper County Lake - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
Kemper lake has always had a great reputation for good bass fishing, but over the last couple of years it has gotten better. The schools of shad now commonly found throughout the lake provide bass with food, and also show anglers where to find the fish. Watch for shad jumping or any kind of disturbance on the surface. The water is crystal clear so large bass will be found deep. Try a suspending crankbait along ledges that can be found off many points in the lake. Use a pig and jig (brown or black with a rattle) fished as slowly as you can stand it in the treetops and around fish attractor buoys.
Bream, particularly redear, are plentiful at Kemper. In the winter and early spring the bream can be found in the upper (North) end of the lake. Look for the old road bed just south of the boat ramp and fish for them using red worms. Another good place is the sand flat in the upper end of the lake.
Crappie will always be found around the fish attractor buoys. Try the buoy in water approx. 18 feet near the fishing pier then travel up the lake to the buoy which is across from the north boat ramp. Use white colored jigs that resemble small shad.
Catfish can be found traveling the creek channel. The channel starts at the line of ski buoys and runs all the way to the dam. Use livers with a large weight and strong line. There are 10 open water fish attractors, and each is marked with a buoy. Approximately 350 Christmas trees added to the sites in January 2007. They will provide great habitat for all species of fish.
A depth/bottom map is available showing locations of fish attractors and other lake features. The link to our lake map page is:
http://www.mdwfp.com/level2/Fisheries/pdf/maps/
GPS coordinates for the fish attractors are:
N 32 48.281 W 88 43.983
N 32 48.555 W 88 43.938
N 32 48.464 W 88 44.151
N 32 48.750 W 88 44.240
N 32 48.637 W 88 44.336
N 32 48.946 W 88 44.904
N 32 48.170 W 88 43.714
N 32 48.117 W 88 43.639
N 32 48.716 W 88 44.396
N 32 48.774 W 88 44.623
N 32 48.206 W 088 43.787
N 32 48.728 W 088 43.147
N 32 48.493 W 088 43.584
N 32 48.541 W 088 42.914
N 32 48.623 W 088 42.970
Neshoba County Lake - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
The deep channels cut through the lake bottom should concentrate bass and crappie. Bass and crappie should also be along the levee. The water is deeper and some standing willow trees provide cover. Try slow fishing techniques for bass and jigs or minnows for crappie.
Bream will bite in the winter. Fish along the earthen piers with worms.
Camping is available for overnight stays
A depth/bottom map is available showing locations of fish attractors and other lake features. The link to our lake map page is:
http://www.mdwfp.com/level2/Fisheries/pdf/maps/
Lake Claude Bennett - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
Bass may be concentrated in deeper water areas of the lake. Since the majority of the lake is relatively shallow, the bass will be stacked on structure and points. The deep ledge off the point across from the boat ramp always holds a lot of quality fish. Try slow moving baits such as rolling a spinnerbait or a pig and jig in deep water. The lake has vegetation that has shown to hold fish well and bass may be picked up along the edges by flipping a lizard or critter bait (brush hog, hoodad, etc.) with a split shot weight tied approx. 14-16 inches above the lure on warmer days.
Crappie fishermen have their best luck fishing the two fish attractor across from the boat ramp and near the levee. Minnows work well, but jigs usually give better results.
Bream are scattered throughout the lake. Many are in the creek channel that goes into upper end waiting on a meal to travel into the lake. We found numerous large bream around the fish attractor buoy located by the wooden fishing pier. You can easily cast to it.
Catfish are found along the line of smartweed on the perimeter of the lake. Tight-lining with chicken liver and stinkbait work well.
Campsites are available.
A depth/bottom map is available showing locations of fish attractors and other lake features. The link to our lake map page is:
http://www.mdwfp.com/level2/Fisheries/pdf/maps/
Several fish attractors have been established in the lake to create fish habitat and a hot spot for anglers. Approximately 150 Christmas trees were added to the sites in January 2007. They provide great habitat for all species of fish. These attractors are marked with buoys for anglers to easily find and are loaded down with Christmas trees. Other habitat enhancements include several bream gravel spawning beds located near the shoreline and fishing piers. These areas are great for locating bream during the late spring and early summer months.
GPS coordinates for the fish attractors are:
N 32 06.089 W 89 02.030
N 32 06.231 W 89 01.972
N 32 06.224 W 89 02.026
N 32 06.188 W 89 02.164
Simpson County Lake - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
The lake is well-known for producing numerous fish over 10 lbs. in the winter-early spring. Local anglers fish for large bass with golden shiners caught from the lake using dough balls and small hooks. Take the shiner and let the "live bait" do the work for you. Some bass will be deeper, but may be easier to catch since the spawn is of no concern. Try the point across from the boat ramp near the large pine tree that is in the lake. The water there is 8-12 feet deep, and bass are always in that area. Flip plastics under the waxmyrtle bushes along that deep edge working the bait meticulously. On the cover, use a jig fished slowly, picking it up and letting it drop. Suspending crankbaits with wide wobble work well on ledges (rattlin rogue or a crankbait with firetiger color always produces in the winter).
Crappie are piled up around the buoy off the levee. Christmas trees are piled all around it. Minnows and jigs both work well, but be ready to loose a few baits.
Panfish (redear and bluegill) are congregated around stumps to the right of the boat ramp. Tight-lining with red worms renders best results.
Catfish can be found around logs and large limbs. Liver and stinkbait are still very effective in cool weather. Camping is available for overnight stays. No reservations needed.
A depth/bottom map is available showing locations of fish attractors and other lake features. The link to our lake map page is:
http://www.mdwfp.com/level2/Fisheries/pdf/maps/
Several fish attractors have been established in the lake to create fish habitat and a hot spot for anglers. Approximately 150 Christmas trees were added in January the fish attractor bouys. They will provide great habitat for all species of fish. These attractors have been marked with buoys for anglers to easily find and are loaded down with Christmas trees.
GPS coordinates for the fish attractors are:
N 31 54.886 W 89 47.393
N 31 54.976 W 89 47.500
N 31 54.819 W 89 47.632
N 31 54.757 W 89 47.565
Lake Ross Barnett - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
Bass move into deep water during the winter months. Try a jig with a pork rind (pig & jig) in water over 7 feet deep for large bass. Slow down presentation to allow bait to stay near the bottom or near structure. More aggressive bass may be harvested using small plastics such as finesse worms Carolina rigged. The lake is loaded with bass around a pound and catch rates should be high. Fishing the creek channel and the fish attractor in the upper end (which is at the end of the creek channel) may produce some trophies.
Crappie can be found on deepwater flooded timber in the cove across from the levee. Jigs work best with a white color being the top choice. The old creek channel is easily found in this lake. Crappie fishing in this area and also around fish attractors can produce good catches.
Catfish are piled up together on cover consisting of logs or large limbs. Most fish caught are 3-5 lbs. in size.
This lake is also known for large bream. Redear near 2 pounds are often caught in winter to early spring. Red worms tight-lined in the old swimming area score the nice panfish.
A depth/bottom map is available showing locations of fish attractors and other lake features. The link to our lake map page is:
http://www.mdwfp.com/level2/Fisheries/pdf/maps/
Several fish attractors have been established in the lake to create fish habitat and a hot spot for anglers. Approximately 150 Christmas trees were sunk in January 2007 around marked fish attractor bouys. They provide great habitat for all species of fish. These attractors have been marked with buoys for anglers to easily find and are loaded down with Christmas trees.
GPS coordinates for the fish attractors are:
N 31 49.746 W 89 35.246
N 31 49.668 W 89 35.517
N 31 49.794 W 89 35.650
N 31 49.733 W 89 35.747
Roosevelt - Last Updated: 2/27/2008
Water temps are still cool due to the up and down change in weather. Some nice crappie are being caught around the old lake swimming pier. Jigs and minnows are being used for crappie. Bass reports have been fairly good especially on the warmer days. Crank baits and plastic worms seem to be the bait of choice. New bass limits are 10 per day any size. A few catfish have been caught using liver off the main fishing pier in the day use area. No reports of bream being caught, but should pick up as water temp begins to rise.
Fish attractors made of Christmas trees and wooden pallets were placed at 8 locations in the lake. Two of the fish attractors are marked with buoys labeled with the word "brush". All attractor locations are on the depth map that is on our website. The link to our lake map page is:
http://www.mdwfp.com/level2/Fisheries/pdf/maps/
Here are Latitude/Longtitude coordinates for the locations that you can plug into a GPS unit.
32.32215 N marked with a buoy.
89.67997 W
32.31880 N diving platform
89.68017 W
32.31760 N marked with a buoy
89.67953 W
32.31857 N large cove west bank
89.68476 W
32.31636 N deep water, west bank
89.68554 W
32.31530 N cove, east bank
89.68153 W
32.31480 N near drain structure
89.68342 W
32.31369 N cove with boat ramp
89.68208 W
District 5
Calling Panther Lake - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
BREAM can be caught throughout the winter on worms in deep water near standing timber and creek channels.
LARGEMOUTH BASS can be found hanging tight in structure on the flats bordering creek channels. Try plastics fished slowly. They can also be caught along the edge of the rip-rap ledge on the dam.
CATFISH are usually good on the shallower flats and points. Try cutbait and worms fished on the bottom.
Creel limits: Largemouth bass 16"-22" slot length limit, 10 fish/day with 1 over 22" Channel Catfish 10 fish/day Bream 100 fish/day Crappie 30 fish/day
Natchez State Park - Last Updated: 2/27/2008
Water temps are still cool and action has not really picked up yet, but a few bass are being caught on warmer days in 2-4 ft of water using plastics fished slow. Bream are still deep and biting slowly along dropoffs.
Lake Lincoln - Last Updated: 2/27/2008
Largemouth bass are beginning to show up during the warmer days around weed beds. Try plastics fished slowly along these edges. bream are scattered but a few are being caught on the deeper brushtops on worms. Catfish are feeding on the longer points. Try worms and cutbait fished on the bottom.
Lake Mary Crawford - Last Updated: 2/27/2008
Largemouth bass are moving shallow during the warm spells and can be caught on slow rolled spinnerbaits and plastics near deep water. Bream are scattered and can be caught along the edges of channels where structure can be found. Catfish are moving up on the shallow points late in the evening. They can be caught using worms fished on the bottom.
Lake Bill Waller - Last Updated: 2/26/2008
The water is just at the 60 degree mark. Fishing pressure has been very light due to recent cold weather but some are having limited success catching bass by fishing crankbaits and jerk baits on edges of spawning flats. The bass are starting to stage for the spawn, so a reaction bait might be the ticket. The bream have been slow but some between 0.25 to 0.5 lbs. have been caught in deeper water on red worms. Crappie reports have not been coming in yet. For more detailed information please contact the Lake Office @ 601-736-1861
Lake Walthall - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
Fishing at Lake Walthall has been limited because low water conditions which limits boat launching. Most anglers are bank fishing and targeting bream. The bream still seem to be deep so try fishing on the warmest days using redworms and fish deeper water around 6-8 feet.
Lake Columbia - Last Updated: 2/26/2008
Lake Columbia fishing pressure has been up and down with the recent cold fronts passing through. The water temperature is around 60 degrees. Some have had success catching crappie along the dam in 12-14 feet of water; fishing very slow using mostly minnows. Bass anglers are catching a few near deep drops that are adjacent to shallow flats using soft plastics, jigs and suspending jerkbaits fished very slow. Some are being caught using pre-spawn patterns. Some bream are being caught on redworms in deep water. For more detailed information please contact the Lake Office @ 601/736-1861.
District 6
Lake Jeff Davis - Last Updated: 2/27/2008
Largemouth bass are being caught in 3 -5 feet of water near structure next to deep dropoffs. Fish plastics and jigs slowly along the edge of channels. Bream are in the deeper structure (8 - 10 feet) and be caught on worms. Catfish are scattered with no angler reported catches.
Lake Bogue Homa - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
Notice: Lake Bogue Homa is closed due to lake and dam renovations. For further information contact Lake Bogue Homa at: 601/425-2148.
Paul B. Johnson State Park - Last Updated: 2/27/2008
Water is a little stained from the recent rains; water temperature 60 degrees. The bass bite has picked up recently with several 13"-16" fish being caught on soft plastics and crankbaits around lily pad stems adjacent to deeper water. Bream also picking up although the recent cold fronts may slow them down. Try jigs & crickets from bank or boat around points. Crappie are being caught on both minnows & jigs just off the dam in brush piles on the edge of drop-offs. For more information contact Paul B. Johnson State Park at: 601/582-7721.
Lake Perry - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
Fishing pressure has been slow because of all the cold weather lately but those doing the best are going after crappie and bream. The water temp. has moved into the upper 50's so you're going to have to fish slow and with a lot of patience. The bass should be getting to spawn in a few weeks, so pre-spawn patterns would be your best bet. What's paid off recently for bream anglers is worms and crickets fished in 4-8 feet of water from bank and boat. For crappie, they're slow but catching a few on minnows and jigs from boat in 5-10 feet of water in the main lake channel. For more information contact Lake Perry at: 601/784-6119.
Lake Mike Conner - Last Updated: 2/27/2008
Laregmouth bass are making forays into the shallows during warm spells and can be caught hanging tight in structure on the flats bordering creek channels. Try plastics fished slowly. Bream are being caught on worms in deep water near structure and creek channels. Catfish are scattered on the shallower flats and points. Try cutbait and worms fished on the bottom.
Pascagoula River - Last Updated: 2/25/2008
Pascagoula River: The gauge at Merrill was 15.27ft.and rising. Fishing in the river is slow other than a few folks catfishing. Some are catching a few on trotlines using cutbait. There hasn't been much pressure in the oxbows lately due to the recent cold weather but some are catching a few crappie fishing deeper water real slow using minnows and jigs. Anglers targeting bass on the river and oxbows have been few because of weather; some catching bass on soft plastics fished slow around brushtops and stumps. Most bass are being caught on the warmest days.
