Posted by: Mae Mayeux

Northern Louisiana is a haven for all breeds of outdoor enthusiasts. Campers, hikers, birdwatchers, hunters, nature photographers, and fishermen all flock to the region to take advantage of its plentiful opportunities for outdoor adventure. That’s why we call it Sportsman’s Paradise. The region is filled with incredible wildlife, lush vegetation, and sparkling lakes brimming with bass and trout. For this reason, Northern Louisiana is known to have some of the best freshwater fishing in the entire South. While you’re here, you can follow The Louisiana Bass Trail or try your hand at catching some redfish and crappie in the region’s many lakes and streams. Click here for more about the Louisiana Bed & Breakfast Association's many charming properties located throughout the region, the perfect home base during your time in the area. Read on for some of our favorite places to cast a line in Northern Louisiana.

 

The Red River

Bassmaster Magazine has chosen the Red River twice for the site of its World Championship in bass fishing. Don’t let the river’s unique reddish color fool you. It is made up of five different pools where you will find plenty of bass ranging from 3 to 8 pounds. The River Lakes area is also an incredible place for catching bass.

Toledo Bend Reservoir

Toledo Bend Reservoir is known to have some of the country’s best fishing, hunting, and birding. Bassmaster Magazine has even named it the number one bass fishing destination in the nation. The reservoir, located on the Texas-Louisiana state line, is well stocked with largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and white and striped bass.

Caney Creek Reservoir & Jimmie Davis State Park

Caney Creek Reservoir is a secluded, 5,000-acre lake located in Jackson Parish. The lake may be small but its bass are huge. Hardly a month goes by when a fisherman doesn’t catch a bass that tops the 10-12 lb. weight mark. That means your chances of reeling in a big bass are pretty high. The park is located inside Jimmie Davis State Park. Within the park, you’ll find 11 fishing piers and numerous excellent amenities for fishermen.

Lake Bruin State Park

The 3,000-acre lake in Lake Bruin State Park offers amazing largemouth bass fishing year round, but the best months are April, May, June, September and October. You’ll also find crappie and bluegill in its waters. The park contains three large fishing piers, a year-round boat launch, rental boats, and a boat shed, making it an excellent spot for both casual and experienced fisherman.

Lake Martin

Lake Martin near Breaux Bridge is part of the Cypress Island Preserve, a beautiful 9,500-acre cypress and tupelo swamp. Lake Martin is the preserve’s main feature and is excellent for largemouth bass, crappie, and sunfish fishing. If you are a birdwatcher, you will also find a large number of nesting waterbirds, including the great blue heron, great egret, white ibis, and more. You might also encounter a few reptiles and amphibians while you’re there.

Planning a fishing expedition through Northern Louisiana? Book a stay at one of the Louisiana Bed & Breakfast Association's many wonderful properties located throughout Sportsman’s Paradise.