Date and Time Updated:
Species
SpeciesDetail
BassWith temperatures starting to warm, look for the activity to start to pick up. Suspended crank baits, spinner baits, and worms are a good choice. Just fish them slow this time of year. Target deeper areas with underwater cover.
Crappiewith water temperatures starting to warm, also expect crappie activity to start to pick up. Around this time anglers are still trolling deeper areas of the lake. Look for any structure in the lake and try various depths. Using jigs or minnows is a good choice.
BreamBream fishing during the winter months can be slow but look for activity to pick up in the coming weeks. Try using red worms at different depths.
CatfishWinter catfish are slow to bite. However, look for catfish activity to increase with warmer weather on the way. Try fishing near the bottom with liver, night crawlers, or cut bait.
Creel Limits (per person, per day)
TypeAmountAdditional Infromation
   

Statewide creel limits apply to all species.

Water Level
Additional Information

For Mississippi River oxbow lakes, the fluctuations of the Mississippi River is an important factor for determining how the fishing is. Slow rises and slow falls produce the best fishing. The best crappie fishing on Desoto Lake is normally at water levels between 12 - 18 feet (Helena gauge).

Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks Fisheries Biologists use various sampling methods to assess the fish populations in the State’s waters.   Sampling results for selected water bodies are summarized in Reel Facts Sheets

Please be aware that Silver carp are very abundant in Desoto Lake and may jump out of the water and collide with boater, skiers, and anglers.