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.

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See the best times to fish in Mississippi, top species by season, and find local guides.

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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.

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SpeciesSeasonBag LimitSize Limit
Largemouth BassYear-round10 per dayNo size limit
White BassYear-round15 per dayNo size limit
Spotted BassYear-round10 per day in aggregate with Largemouth and Smallmouth BassNo size limit
Striped BassYear-round2 per day15-inch minimum
Channel CatfishYear-roundNo limitNo size limit
Flathead CatfishYear-roundNo limitNo size limit
CarpYear-roundNo limitNo size limit
CrappieYear-round30 per dayNo size limit
BluegillYear-roundNo limitNo size limit
Hybrid Striped BassYear-round2 per day15-inch minimum
Blue CatfishYear-roundNo limitNo size limit
Red DrumYear-round3 per person per day18-30 inch slot limit
SnapperVaries by species; check current regulationsVaries by species; check current regulationsVaries by species; check current regulations
SnookClosed0No harvest allowed
FlounderYear-round5 per day14-inch minimum

Frequently Asked Questions

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