Fishing with a view – Ridgeland’s rugged beauty makes every cast feel like an adventure.
With wide-open waters and big skies, it’s the kind of place that reminds you why you love
being out here. (Photo courtesy Explore Ridgeland)
Barnett Reservoir – an Angler’s Paradise
by Explore Ridgeland
If you’re looking for a fishing destination that’s got it all – great water, abundant fish, and plenty of opportunities to cast your line – look no further than Ridgeland, Mississippi, and the Barnett Reservoir. Known locally as “The Rez,” this 33,000-acre body of water is a prime spot for anglers looking to hook into trophy crappie, bass, and more. From its fertile waters to its picturesque 105 miles of shoreline, Barnett Reservoir is an angler’s dream, offering a year-round fishing experience that’s as exciting as it is relaxing.
A Natural Fish Hatchery
Barnett Reservoir isn’t just any lake; it’s a natural fish hatchery, thanks to its rich, fertile waters. The combination of healthy water quality and a thriving ecosystem has created a perfect breeding ground for all kinds of fish. The waters are loaded with gizzard shad and threadfin shad, so the fish are fat and healthy year-round. The Rez is particularly known for its crappie fishing, with huge numbers of fish just waiting for the right bait to drop in front of them.
Crappie Fishing Heaven
For crappie anglers, Barnett Reservoir is like walking into a fishing paradise. With an abundance of shallow water ideal for spawning and deeper spots perfect for summer fishing, this lake has the right mix of conditions to keep the crappie population thriving. Whether you’re casting from the shore or out on the water, the crappie are there, and they’re hungry.
The lake’s structure is perfect for crappie fishing, offering an abundance of cover from grass beds and stumps to lily pads and old timber. You’ll find plenty of places to target these tasty fish, including the many sloughs and old lakes filled with timber and laydowns—ideal hiding spots for crappie. And if the wind picks up, don’t worry. The river system allows anglers to fish the shoreline in just about any conditions, making it a reliable spot no matter the weather.
A Fisherman’s Dream Year-Round
There’s never a bad time to fish Barnett Reservoir. With its year-round growing season, the fish are always ready to bite. From June to April, the fish are fat and healthy, and even November is a standout month for crappie fishing. With healthy populations and no size limit, the lake stays stocked with plenty of fish, so you can count on a good day out on the water no matter when you come.
The 30-fish creel limit keeps things balanced, ensuring the fish population stays strong and the lake doesn’t become overstocked. You won’t have to worry about overcrowded waters or a lack of good catches here. Many anglers have raved about the high creel limit as being a reason they’ll drive several hours (or even from out of state) to take advantage of filling up the cooler with the mild and sweet flavored white fish.
Easy Access to the Water
When you’re ready to get your boat on the water, Ridgeland’s got you covered. With two boat landings, including the popular Madison Landing near Old Trace Park, you can launch your boat and start fishing in no time. If you’re looking for a more leisurely experience, Main Harbor Marina offers pontoon rentals and convenient access to the lake from March 1 to October 30. And if you’re ready to kick back and enjoy some great food after a day on the water, lakeside restaurants like Pelican Cove and Cock of the Walk are the perfect places to dock up and grab a bite.
Got the Gear? Go It Alone or Call in a Guide
If you’ve got the right gear – a boat, depth finder, and a good lake map – you can certainly go it alone and have a successful day fishing. But if you’re looking for expert insight into where the big crappie are hiding, why not hire a local guide like Brad Chappell? Brad, a passionate crappie fisherman and member of the Magnolia Crappie Club, can provide all the tackle, bait, and guidance you need to increase your chances of landing the big one.
Brad Chappell Guide Service is the perfect choice for anyone looking to get the most out of their day on the lake. You’ll have a blast learning tips and tricks from someone who knows the Rez like the back of his hand. Contact Brad at (601) 317-6681 or by email at bchappell268@gmail.com for more info.
Keeping the Rez Clean and Beautiful
The Pearl River Valley Water Supply District (PRVWSD) manages Barnett Reservoir and its surrounding areas, ensuring the lake remains in pristine condition. Part of this effort includes enforcing laws to keep the water clean, such as requiring all fishermen and boaters to have a trash container clearly marked “Trash” on board. Violators can face fines up to $1,000, so be sure to dispose of your garbage properly and help keep the Rez clean for future generations.
Plan Your Trip to Ridgeland Today
Why Ridgeland? Well, aside from being home to the Barnett Reservoir, Ridgeland offers much more than just great fishing. Whether you’re a local or an out-of-towner, this city encourages everyone to get out and explore its many attractions.
Looking for a place to stay? Ridgeland’s got you covered with 16 hotels, making it easy to find a spot to rest after a day on the water. If you’re booking a charter with Brad Chappell, take advantage of discounted hotel rates at top spots like the AC Hotel by Marriott and Homewood Suites by Hilton – perfect for anglers wanting to stay close to the action.
When it comes to food, Ridgeland is a true gem. Known as the “Steakhouse Capital of Mississippi,” this town knows how to serve up a mouthwatering steak. If you’re not in the mood for beef, you’ll find fantastic seafood and a range of other dining options to satisfy any craving. After a long day of fishing, there’s no better way to refuel than with a great meal right here in Ridgeland.
Bringing the family? There’s plenty of entertainment for everyone. Mississippi’s first Topgolf offers a fun, family-friendly way to spend the afternoon, while the nearby shopping scene is a great way to pick up some souvenirs or gear for your next trip. And if you’re visiting on the right weekend, be sure to check out a Demo Day at the Waller Craft Center, where local artisans showcase their skills, making everything from handmade fishing bait hooks to unique woodturning and blacksmithing. It’s a chance to see craft in action and take home something special.
So, whether you’re here to reel in a big one at the Rez, savor a delicious steak, or just kick back and enjoy some local culture, Ridgeland has something for every angler and their crew. Conveniently located close to Interstates 55 & 20, and right off the historic Natchez Trace Parkway, it’s the perfect base for a fishing getaway with plenty of opportunities to explore, eat, and relax. Come Explore Ridgeland! Start planning your trip today at exploreRidgeland.com.
