7 Things That Scare Southerners

1. Barnett Reservoir: A crap fisherman’s dream

Let’s get straight to the point – this Ross Barnett Reservoir is the crown jewel of crappie fishing in Mississippi. With 33,000 acres of fertile water and 105 miles of shoreline, this lake is a natural fish breeding ground. Healthy populations of bass, perch, catfish, sunfish, white bass, striped bass and hybrid bass thrive here, but often it’s the bass that steal the show.

What makes crappie fishing at The Rez even more exciting? It is one of the few lakes in the state that has no crappie size limit, and anglers are permitted a 30-fish basket. This unique arrangement ensures that the lake is well stocked and you can catch fish all day long. The reservoir is a year-round fishing area, with November being a particularly good time for fishing.

With weed beds, stumps, lily pads and deep timber-filled waters, there is plenty of cover to attract crappie. There’s no shortage of hotspots here, whether you’re fishing from a boat or from the shore.

2. This lake has everything.

While crappie may be the star of the show, the bass fishing at Ross Barnett Reservoir is second to none. In 1966, during a fishing trip to the reservoir, salesman Ray Scott had a dream – a dream that eventually turned into BASS tournament fishing.

Thanks to the abundance of gizzardfish and threadfin fish, there are always enough baitfish to keep the bass full and happy. Due to the year-round growing season, the lake’s ecosystem is teeming with large and healthy bass. Trout in your sights? Striped bass? The variety is endless and so is the thrill.

With shallow water perfect for spring spawning and deeper sections for summer fishing, the lake has it all. Thanks to the protection offered by the river system, you can fish with peace of mind even on windy days. And since there is no pole limit, you can double down on your strategy.

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If you love nature, you will love Ridgeland.(Visit Ridgeland)

3. A perfect getaway for families

You can’t expect every member of the family to be equally enthusiastic about fishing, but Ridgeland offers a range of activities on and off the water – the perfect balance of outdoor adventure and city convenience. After spending a morning catching fish, there’s no shortage of activities to keep everyone entertained.

For those who want to relax, The Renaissance in Colony Park offers boutique shopping, upscale and casual dining, and an on-site spa, Aqua the Day Spa, where you can relax with a massage or facial. Whether you’re looking to browse the local shops or indulge in a little pampering, Ridgeland has plenty to offer when you’re looking to slow down and enjoy the day.

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If your crew is looking for activities away from the water, Ridgeland is known for its network of bike trails that take you from the Natchez Trace through town to Barnett Reservoir. Your family can bike to the waterfront and meet you for lunch at Cock of the Walk.

4. Stay in Ridgeland: Comfortable accommodations with easy access to the lake

Ridgeland offers a variety of lodging options that make it easy to turn your fishing trip into a complete weekend adventure. If you choose the Embassy Suites by Hilton or the modern amenities at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott, you’ll be just a short drive from the reservoir, giving you quick access to some of the state’s best fishing spots. But the convenience doesn’t stop there – these accommodations are perfectly located near Ridgeland’s vibrant local dining scene and entertainment options, so you can enjoy a delicious meal or relax with live music after a day on the water.

Ridgeland’s central location means you can truly enjoy the best of both worlds: spending your days casting and exploring the outdoors while spending your evenings relaxing in town and enjoying the hospitality and charm of this Mississippi gem can enjoy. Whether you want to fish, dine or just enjoy the local culture, Ridgeland is the perfect home base for your next outdoor adventure.

5. More than just fishing: outdoor fun for everyone

Even if fishing is the main event of your trip, there’s plenty more outdoor fun to be had in Ridgeland. Take a break from the lake and explore Natchez Trace Parkwaya scenic ride that’s perfect for a leisurely day trip or a more active cycling adventure. If you prefer hiking, the Ridgeland Multi-Use Trail offers a beautiful route through the forest to immerse yourself in nature and stretch your legs.

Looking for something more relaxed? Challenge your friends to a round of disc golf Old Trace Park. With stunning reservoir views and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to enjoy nature while keeping things low-key. If you are traveling with children, they will love the playground Freedom Ridge Parkwhere you can burn off some energy while you sit back and enjoy the fresh air.

If you want to enjoy nature without breaking a sweat, you can dine al fresco at Renaissance at Colony Park. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat and enjoy the atmosphere. The selection ranges from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. Whether you’re enjoying a relaxed meal or people watching on a sunny afternoon, it’s the perfect way to round out your day in Ridgeland.

And for the perfect end to your outdoor adventure, return to Barnett Reservoir and spend a relaxing evening by the water. Whether you want a sunset cruise, a family picnic, or just gazing at the stars under the Mississippi sky, the reservoir provides the ideal setting to relax after a day of exploring.

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Plan your fishing vacation in Ridgeland

Ridgeland is the perfect place to skip the line and stay a while. With a mix of great fishing, local charm and plenty of activities, you can plan a trip that’s as relaxing or action-packed as you desire.