The Mississippi River, one of the longest and most iconic rivers in the world, offers a rich and diverse fishing experience. Flowing over 2,300 miles from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, this mighty river supports many fish species and attracts anglers from across the country. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, Mississippi River fishing offers the chance to catch everything from trophy-sized catfish to panfish, bass, and more.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about fishing on the Mississippi River, including popular fish species, fishing techniques, and the best locations along the river.
Overview of the Mississippi River Fishing Environment
The Mississippi River is divided into several sections, each offering different fishing opportunities based on its geography and the fish species that inhabit it. These sections include:
- Upper Mississippi River: Running from its headwaters in Minnesota down to the confluence with the Missouri River, this stretch is home to clear waters, numerous tributaries, and diverse habitats.
- Middle Mississippi River: This stretch runs from the Missouri River confluence to the Ohio River, with deeper waters and wider channels.
- Lower Mississippi River: From the Ohio River down to the Gulf of Mexico, the Lower Mississippi features more turbid waters and supports some of the largest fish in the river.
Each section offers unique opportunities, with different fish species and techniques favored based on the changing environment.
Popular Fish Species in the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is home to a variety of fish species, making it a top destination for freshwater anglers. Here are some of the most commonly sought-after fish you’ll encounter on the river:
1. Catfish (Blue Catfish, Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish)
Catfish are the signature species of the Mississippi River, with many anglers specifically targeting blue catfish, channel catfish, and flathead catfish. Blue catfish, in particular, can reach trophy sizes, with some weighing over 100 pounds.
- Best Techniques: Bottom fishing with live bait (shad, cut bait, or nightcrawlers) is the preferred method for catching catfish. Use heavy tackle to handle the larger specimens, especially in the Lower Mississippi.
- Best Spots: Deep holes, areas near wing dams, and along drop-offs are prime locations for targeting big catfish, especially in the Lower and Middle Mississippi.
2. Bass (Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, White Bass)
Bass fishing on the Mississippi River can be incredibly rewarding. Largemouth and smallmouth bass can be found in abundance, along with the often-overlooked white bass.
- Best Techniques: For largemouth bass, try casting spinnerbaits, crankbaits, or soft plastics near cover like fallen trees, vegetation, or docks. Smallmouth bass prefers rocky areas, and jerkbaits or tube jigs can be effective.
- Best Spots: Bass are often found in the backwaters, sloughs, and along riverbanks with plenty of cover. The Upper Mississippi River is particularly known for excellent smallmouth bass fishing.
3. Walleye and Sauger
Walleye and sauger are two of the most sought-after game fish in the Mississippi River. These species are popular for their delicious taste and are often targeted by anglers during the spring and fall months.
- Best Techniques: Vertical jigging, trolling crankbaits, or using live minnows are popular techniques for catching walleye and sauger. They are often found near the bottom, so keeping your lure or bait close to the riverbed is key.
- Best Spots: The Upper Mississippi River is a prime destination for walleye and sauger, especially near dams, current breaks, and deep pools.
4. Panfish (Bluegill, Crappie, Sunfish)
The Mississippi River is a great place to fish for panfish, especially bluegill, crappie, and other sunfish species. These fish are often found in the river’s backwaters and provide fun, light-tackle fishing.
- Best Techniques: For panfish, small jigs, live worms, and minnows work best. Crappie jigs or bobber rigs are highly effective when targeting crappie, especially in the spring.
- Best Spots: Panfish thrive in calm, shallow waters, backwater lakes, and areas with vegetation. The Upper and Middle Mississippi are popular spots for crappie and bluegill fishing.
5. Northern Pike and Muskellunge (Muskie)
These large, aggressive predators are found throughout the Mississippi River and are highly prized by anglers for their size and fight. Northern pike are more common, but muskies are also found in certain sections of the river.
- Best Techniques: Large spinners, jerkbaits, and live baitfish are popular for targeting northern pike and muskie. Anglers should focus on casting near weed lines, shallow backwaters, or slow-moving areas.
- Best Spots: The Upper Mississippi River is known for its healthy northern pike population, especially in areas near tributaries, marshes, and backwaters.
Fishing Techniques and Gear for the Mississippi River
The wide variety of fish species found in the Mississippi River requires different fishing techniques and gear. Here are some general guidelines to help you succeed, no matter what fish you’re targeting:
- Bottom Fishing: This technique is particularly effective for catfish and sturgeon. Use a heavy sinker to keep your bait on the riverbed where these fish typically feed.
- Trolling: Ideal for targeting walleye, sauger, and even northern pike, trolling allows you to cover a large area while dragging crankbaits or spinners behind the boat.
- Casting: This versatile technique works well for species like bass, panfish, and northern pike. Cast near structures, such as fallen trees, rocks, or vegetation, and retrieve your lure in a way that mimics prey.
- Jigging: Vertical jigging with soft plastics or live bait is effective for walleye, sauger, and other species that stay near the bottom.
- Fly Fishing: While less common on the Mississippi River, fly fishing can be productive in the Upper Mississippi, especially in shallow areas for species like smallmouth bass and panfish.
Best Fishing Spots on the Mississippi River
With over 2,300 miles of river to explore, there are countless fishing spots along the Mississippi. Here are some of the most productive and popular sections of the river:
1. Upper Mississippi River (Minnesota to Iowa)
The Upper Mississippi River is a fishing haven, offering some of the best opportunities for walleye, smallmouth bass, and northern pike. The area around Lake Pepin in Minnesota is especially well-known for its walleye fishing, while the backwaters near La Crosse, Wisconsin, are perfect for bass and panfish.
2. Mississippi River Pools (Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin)
The Mississippi River is divided into a series of “pools” by a system of locks and dams. These pools create areas of calm water, ideal for fishing. Popular pools include Pool 9 near Lansing, Iowa, and Pool 4 near Alma, Wisconsin, both known for excellent fishing for a variety of species, including walleye, bass, and catfish.
3. Middle Mississippi River (Missouri and Illinois)
This section of the river offers opportunities to catch large blue catfish, channel catfish, and flathead catfish. Anglers also target bass and crappie in the numerous backwater lakes and sloughs found along this stretch.
4. Lower Mississippi River (Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas)
The Lower Mississippi River is famous for its massive catfish, particularly blue catfish that can exceed 100 pounds. The deep waters and fast currents make this a challenging but rewarding spot for anglers. Additionally, this section is great for targeting largemouth bass and various panfish species.
Conclusion
Fishing on the Mississippi River is a rewarding experience, offering anglers the chance to catch a wide variety of fish species in diverse and picturesque environments. Whether you’re fishing the clear waters of the Upper Mississippi for walleye or battling a trophy catfish in the murky depths of the Lower Mississippi, there’s something for everyone on this legendary river.
By understanding the species, techniques, and best spots for fishing along the Mississippi River, you’ll be well-equipped to plan a successful and memorable fishing trip.
