Ross Barnett Reservoir
Mississippi · reservoir · approx 32.40, -90.00
Located in Mississippi, Ross Barnett Reservoir is classified as a reservoir with approximate coordinates 32.400, -90.000. Largemouth bass. Anglers target Largemouth Bass, Crappie here, and the links below open the regulations, stocking, and license details you need for a compliant trip.
About this water
Largemouth bass.
Fishing characteristics
As a reservoir, Ross Barnett Reservoir is an impoundment with fluctuating levels. Creek channels, submerged timber, and main-lake points are the reliable fish-holding structure through the year.
Target species
- Largemouth Bass — Largemouth bass are the signature warm-water gamefish, ambushing prey around cover, weeds, and structure.
- Crappie — Crappie are schooling panfish that relate to brush, docks, and standing timber and bite best around structure.
Access notes
Reservoir access at Ross Barnett Reservoir usually centers on managed ramps and coves; fluctuating levels can expose or close launches through the year. Confirm current access, any required permits, and local closures with Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) before you travel.
Applicable regulations
Mississippi size/bag limits, seasons, and gear rules apply to this water.
View Mississippi license & limits →
Print a compliance checklist (PDF) →
Waterbody-specific rules
No special waterbody-specific regulation is on file for Ross Barnett Reservoir. It is governed by the general Mississippi fishing regulations (statewide size/bag limits, seasons, and gear rules). Always confirm with the state agency before fishing.
View Mississippi license & limits →
Print a compliance checklist (PDF) →
Stocking notes
Stocking totals for Mississippi are pending verification. See the Mississippi stocking profile →
More public waters in Mississippi
Plan beyond Ross Barnett Reservoir. These public waters are also in Mississippi and fall under the same state rules.
Planning your trip to Ross Barnett Reservoir
A valid Mississippi fishing license is generally required to fish public waters — buy it from Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) before you go, and check seasonal closures and any gear restrictions for reservoir waters. The links above open the official Mississippi license, limits, and stocking pages.
When to fish Ross Barnett Reservoir
Reservoirs fish strongly in spring and fall; summer pushes fish deep and favors early and late outings.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a license to fish Ross Barnett Reservoir?
Public waters in Mississippi generally require a state fishing license for anyone past the minimum age; check Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) for exact rules and any free-fishing days.
What species can I target here?
This water is associated with Largemouth Bass, Crappie.