Fishing Fun: 7 Mississippi State Parks to Reel in the Big One

Whether you’re cruising in a pontoon boat, a cuddy cabin or a sportfishing boat, the Magnolia State is home to an abundance of beautiful lakes, rivers and reservoirs that make it a paradise for anglers. The state’s parks offer excellent fishing opportunities in scenic settings. Gather your fishing rods and reels and get ready to reel ‘em in. Here are some of the best state parks in Mississippi for fishing in saltwater settings or freshwater lakes.

1. Lake Lincoln State Park

Located in Wesson, Lake Lincoln State Park is a favorite among anglers seeking largemouth bass, bream and catfish. The 550-acre lake features clear waters, well-maintained boat ramps and a fishing pier. The park also offers picnic areas and campgrounds, making it a great spot for a weekend fishing trip from a private boat dock for rent or a marina.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Catfish, bream, largemouth bass
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, pier

2. Roosevelt State Park

Roosevelt State Park, in Morton between Meridian and Jackson, has a 150-acre freshwater lake stocked with bass, bream, crappie and catfish. The park provides a fishing pier, boat ramps and boat rentals, making it accessible for both shore and boat fishing. The scenic setting, combined with hiking trails and camping options, makes it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Bream, bass, crappie, catfish
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

3. Paul B. Johnson State Park

Just south of Hattiesburg, Paul B. Johnson State Park features Geiger Lake, a 225-acre body of water popular for bass, bream and catfish fishing. The park provides a boat launch, fishing piers and a well-stocked lake, making it a top choice for fishing enthusiasts. The surrounding pine forests add to the park’s scenic beauty.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Bream, bass, catfish 
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, pier

4. Tishomingo State Park

Tishomingo State Park sits in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and offers fishing opportunities along Bear Creek. The creek is home to a variety of fish species, including bass and catfish. While it may not be a traditional large lake fishing destination, the park’s unique setting and additional outdoor activities, such as hiking and rock climbing, make it a fantastic spot for anglers looking for an adventure from private boat slips for rent.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Bass, catfish
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

5. Tombigbee State Park

Tombigbee State Park, situated near Tupelo, features a 90-acre lake stocked with bass, crappie and catfish. The park offers fishing piers, boat access and a quiet, scenic setting perfect for a relaxing fishing trip. With hiking trails and picnic areas, it’s a great place for a family outing from a private boat lift rental.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Bass, catfish, crappie, bream
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

6. Percy Quin State Park

Percy Quin State Park is home to Lake Tangipahoa, a 490-acre lake that provides excellent fishing for bass, crappie, catfish and bream. The park has multiple boat ramps, fishing piers and plenty of shoreline access. Located in McComb, the lake’s well-managed fish population makes it one of the best fishing spots in the state. With a peaceful, wooded backdrop and a well-maintained environment, it’s an ideal location for a relaxing day on the water. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Bream, catfish, crappie, bass
• Fishing Type: Boat, pier, shore

7. Buccaneer State Park 

With 400 acres on the Gulf of Mexico, Buccaneer State Park is a fantastic destination for fishing enthusiasts. Located in Waveland, this park offers access to a variety of fishing spots, both within the park and the nearby coastal waters of the Gulf. While the park itself does not have large fishing lakes, its prime location along the Mississippi Sound and its proximity to Bay St. Louis provide excellent opportunities for anglers. Visitors can fish from the shore, kayak out into the water or venture to nearby piers and charter boats for deep-sea fishing.

• Water: Fresh, salt
• Key Species: Redfish (red drum), flounder, black drum, sheepshead, speckled trout
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, pier, kayak, charter