Striped Bass

If you're targeting striped bass near Petal, Mississippi, the Leaf River and its tributaries offer your best shot. While not as renowned as some fisheries further north, the Leaf River does hold a population of stripers, especially during their spring spawning runs. Focus your efforts from late February through April as the water temperatures rise, triggering their upstream migration. Look for them congregating near submerged structure, creek mouths, and any areas with current breaks. Bank access is limited in some areas, so consider using a kayak or small boat to explore the river effectively. A local tip: check with tackle shops in Hattiesburg for up-to-date information on water levels and recent striper activity; they often have the most current intel. Remember that striper populations can fluctuate, so be prepared to adjust your tactics and potentially target other species if the bite is slow.