Just Add Water

Getting started, or getting back into fishing, can feel intimidating. Many people think it requires expensive gear, a full weekend, or a private spot to fish. But the truth is, fishing can be simple, affordable, and fit into your schedule.

A fancy rod or a full tackle box isn't necessary. A basic rod and reel, some bait, and a little time is all it takes to start enjoying the water. You can fish for an hour after work, spend a morning on the weekend, or make it a fun family outing—no big trip required.

Mississippi is full of public fishing lakes and waterways that are easy to access and ready for anglers of all skill levels. If you don't have a private spot, Mississippi has you covered with state lakes, state park lakes, and other public areas where you can cast a line.

Fishing doesn't have to be complicated, just add water.

Mom Fishing with Son

Getting Started

A basic spincast reel is perfect for beginners, paired with 4-8lb monofilament line. Hooks, bobbers, and a small tackle box with a few lures or live bait will cover most of the fish you'll catch.

Mississippi offers many beginner-friendly species, including bluegill, redear sunfish, crappie, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and channel catfish. For bait: worm, crickets, and minnows work well, and small jigs or soft plastics can also be very effective.

When you cast your line, start near structures like docks, fallen trees, or weed edges—fish like to gather there. Experiment with different techniques: let your bait sit still, slowly reel it in, or try a gentle jigging motion. The goal is to get comfortable with casting and reeling while learning what works best in your spot.

Plan Your Trip

Mississippi has public fishing opportunities for every kind of angler. You can fish from a bank, pier, or boat, whether you want to spend a few minutes or a whole day. Public lakes and waterways are easy to access, well-managed, and welcoming to anglers of all skill levels.

Fishing can be a solo escape or a social activity with friends or family. You can spend a quiet hour casting from the shore, or bring the kids for a fun morning on a pier, For those with a boat, Mississippi's lakes offer plenty of room to explore and try different techniques.

They key is to start simple and fit fishing into your schedule—no long weekend trips or complicated planning required. With a wide range of public fishing locations across the state, there are plenty of options close to home. All you need is a line in the water.

Find a lake near you!

Mississippi is full of public fishing lakes and waterways that are easy to access and ready for anglers of all skill levels.

Plan your trip!

Fishing Tips

Picking the Right Gear

Getting the right gear doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some tips to help you choose what you need to get started:

Rod: A 6-7 foot spinning rod works well for beginners and most freshwater species. Lightweight rods are easier to handle and cast.
Reel: Pair your rod with a spinning reel that matches its size. Spinning reels are versatile and simple to use. (You are able to purchase a pre-paired rod and reel to make this selection easier.)
Line: Use 4-8 lb monofilament line for most fish like bass bluegill, crappie, and catfish. Lighter line works well for smaller fish and makes casting easier. Heavier line may be needed when targeting larger fish.
Hooks & Tackle: Keep a few sizes of hooks (sizes 6-10 are a good start), a couple bobbers, and a small selection of lures like jigs or soft plastics.
- Bobbers are good for beginners, shallow waters, targeting suspended fish, and are a source to provide visual bite detection while controlling depth and preventing snags.
Bait: Match your bait to the fish you're targeting:
- Bream (Bluegill & Redear): worms, crickets, or small spinner baits
- Bass: minnows, spinnerbaits, or soft plastic worms
- Crappie: minnows or jigs
- Catfish: stink bait, chicken liver, cut bait, or scented soft plastics
Pliers & Line Cutter: Always bring pliers to remove hooks safely and a tool to cut line when needed.
Other Easy-to-Forget Items: A small tackle box, extra hooks, a bucket or cooler and stringer for your catch, sunscreen, bug spray, hat, sunglasses, and a water bottle make the trip smoother and more comfortable.

How to Tie Fishing Knots

Knowing a few basic knots will help you keep your bait secure and your line strong. Here are some of the most useful knots for beginners:

Improved Clinch Knot: Great for tying hooks, lures, or swivels on your line.
1.Thread the line through the hook eye and wrap it around the standing line 5-7 times.
2. Pass the tag end through the small loop near the eye, then back through the big loop you just made.
3. Moisten the line and pull tight.
Palomar Knot: Strong and simple, ideal for hooks or lures.
1.Double about 6 inches of line and pass it through the hook eye.
2. Tie a loose overhand knot with the doubled line.
3. Pass the hook through the loop, then pull the doubled line tight.
Uni Knot: Versatile for hooks, lures, or connecting lines.
1. Pass the line through the eye of the hook and double it back to make a loop.
2. Wrap the tag end around the doubled line 5-7 times, then pass it through the loop.
3. Moisten the line and tighten slowly.

Casting Tips for Different Reels

The way you cast depends on the type of reel you're using. Here's a quick guide to help you get your bait where you want it:

Spincast Reel: Perfect for beginners—easy to use and prevents most line tangles.
- How to cast: Press the button on the back of the reel, swing the rod smoothly forward, and release the button as your bait reaches your target.
- Keep your movements gentle and avoid jerky swings to prevent the line from tangling.
Spinning Reel: Very versatile and common for freshwater fishing.
- How to cast: Open the bail, hold the line with your finger, swing the rod forward, and release your finger as the lure reaches the target.
- Try a smooth, fluid motion. Too fast or too sharp can cause line twists or tangles.
- Ideal for lightweight lures and longer casts.
Baitcasting Reel: Best for more advanced anglers—great for heavier lures and precise casts.
- How to cast: Keep your thumb lightly on the spool to control the line. Press the button, swing the rod forward, and gently lift your thumb to let the line out. Apply firmer pressure just as it hits the water to engage the reel.
- Avoid over-spinning the spool to prevent "backlash" (line tangles). Practice with a weight or a plug before using real bait.
- Works well for targeting specific spots around structures like docks, weed beds, or fallen trees.
Quick Tips for All Reels:
- Always check your line for knots or frays before casting.
- Practice in an open area before hitting a lake. Distance and accuracy improve quickly with repetition.
- Stay aware of your surroundings, and avoid jerky or rushed swings.