Largemouth Bass

Targeting largemouth bass near Ridgeland, Mississippi means exploring the Ross Barnett Reservoir, a sprawling impoundment of the Pearl River. "The Rez," as locals call it, is known for its shallow, stump-filled flats and abundant vegetation, creating ideal habitat for bass. Spring (March-May) is undoubtedly the peak season, as bass move shallow to spawn. Focus on areas with lily pads, hydrilla, and submerged timber. Summer can be productive as well, especially early in the morning or late in the evening. During the hotter months, bass tend to retreat to deeper, cooler water. A local tip is to pay attention to water clarity – stained water often holds more active fish. The reservoir can get crowded on weekends, so consider fishing during the week if possible. Be aware of stumps and shallow areas when navigating by boat; a good depth finder is essential.