Complete Guide to Fishing in Mississippi
72 fishing guides across 303 cities. Best months: April, May, June, September.
If you're looking for a state that truly offers it all, Mississippi should be at the top of your fishing destination list. From the productive waters of the Gulf Coast to the winding rivers and sprawling reservoirs of the interior, the Magnolia State provides anglers with an incredible variety of options. Saltwater enthusiasts can target Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Flounder, and even Tripletail along the Mississippi Sound and in the bays around Pascagoula, Biloxi, and Ocean Springs. Freshwater anglers will find abundant Largemouth Bass, Crappie, Catfish, and Bluegill in legendary fisheries like Lake Washington, Grenada Lake, and the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway.
The coastal regions offer year-round opportunities, but the fall (September-November) is prime time for bull Redfish and speckled trout as they move into the bays. Spring (March-May) is excellent for targeting spawning bass in the many oxbow lakes along the Mississippi River. For those chasing trophy Catfish, the summer months (June-August) on the Mississippi River are hard to beat. Consider a trip to West Point, near the Tenn-Tom Waterway, for some of the best multi-species freshwater fishing in the state. Another excellent choice is Oxford, which provides easy access to Sardis Lake, Enid Lake, and Grenada Lake, all renowned for their Crappie and Bass fishing.
No matter your preference, Mississippi has a fishing experience to match. Plan your trip around the seasonal patterns and target the species you're most interested in catching. With its diverse ecosystem and welcoming atmosphere, Mississippi promises a memorable fishing adventure. Whether you're wading the flats near Moss Point for Redfish or casting for Catfish on the 'Big Muddy' near Friars Point, you're in for a treat. Don't overlook the unique charm of Port Gibson, offering access to the Mississippi River and its backwater habitats, ideal for anglers seeking solitude and trophy fish.
Plan a Fishing Trip in Mississippi
See the best times to fish in Mississippi, top species by season, and find local guides.
Top Fishing Destinations in Mississippi
Ranked by guide availability and species diversity












Mississippi Monthly Fishing Calendar
See which species are active each month. Green = good or excellent fishing.
Mississippi Fishing Regulations
Fishing License
Cost: Resident: $8 | Non-Resident: $30
Required for ages 16-64. Freshwater and saltwater licenses sold separately.
| Species | Season | Bag Limit | Size Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass | Year-round | 10 per day | No size limit |
| White Bass | Year-round | 15 per day | No size limit |
| Spotted Bass | Year-round | 10 per day in aggregate with Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass | No size limit |
| Striped Bass | Year-round | 2 per day | 15-inch minimum |
| Channel Catfish | Year-round | No limit | No size limit |
| Flathead Catfish | Year-round | No limit | No size limit |
| Carp | Year-round | No limit | No size limit |
| Crappie | Year-round | 30 per day | No size limit |
| Bluegill | Year-round | No limit | No size limit |
| Hybrid Striped Bass | Year-round | 2 per day | 15-inch minimum |
| Blue Catfish | Year-round | No limit | No size limit |
| Red Drum | Year-round | 3 per person per day | 18-30 inch slot limit |
| Snapper | Varies by species; check current regulations | Varies by species; check current regulations | Varies by species; check current regulations |
| Snook | Closed | 0 | No harvest allowed |
| Flounder | Year-round | 5 per day | 14-inch minimum |
Frequently Asked Questions
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