The Mississippi River is home to many species of fish, and its waters are bountiful for sport fishermen and commercial anglers alike. From catfish to bass, walleye, northern pike and more, the Mississippi River can provide a few amazing catches. Here we explore which fish known thrive in and around this iconic waterway.
Catfish
Catfish are perhaps the most well-known and most sought-after catch in the Mississippi River. Blue and channel catfish are the most common species, though flathead and bullhead catfish are also regularly fished. Catfish are typically caught through trotlines, jugs, jigs, and setlines, or drift-fishing with natural bait or dough balls. Catfish season runs from the first Saturday in May to October 31 all along the Mississippi, though the rules in Lake Pepin are more restrictive.
Bass
Smallmouth and largemouth bass also inhabit the waters of the Mississippi, and provide a great challenge for anglers. Bass may be fished using plugs, jigs, and crankbaits, either natural or artificial in nature. Natural bait is typically fished on the bottom of the river with weights and hooks, whereas jigs and crankbaits will be twitched with a rod or reeled in normally. Bass season runs from the first Saturday in May to October 15 on defined areas of the river.
Walleye
Walleye, a freshwater fish native to North America, thrives in the Mississippi River. Mostly found in the Minnesota portion of the river downstream from the Lake Pepin, walleye can be caught using minnows and jigs. Anglers can deploy a variety of strategies for catching walleye, such as trolling, drift fishing, and using crankbaits or jigs to attract walleye to the area. Season runs from the Saturday nearest April 20 to March 1.
Northern Pike
Northern pike are another popular game fish found in the Mississippi River and its tributaries. These voracious predators prefer cooler water and can be fished in shallower areas, often feeding on small fish or frogs. Anglers tend to jig, cast, or troll depending on conditions, and natural baits or artificial lures such as spinners, spoons and crankbaits are all effective. The season runs from the first Saturday in May to March 15.
Crappie
Another fish found in the Mississippi River is the crappie, a small, freshwater fish found in the shallower sections of the river. Crappie are schooling fish and tend to congregate in the stiller, backwaters and shallow flats feeding on aquatic insects and small baitfish. Anglers will employ light lines, jigs and live bait to target crappie, with the peak season typically being from late April through June.
Grass Pickerel
Grass pickerel, also known as grass pike, are a predatory fish found in the waters of the Mississippi River. They generally prefer cool, clear water, and are most active late in the afternoon. Grass pickerel can be caught with jigs, worms, and small lures, and the season runs from the first Saturday in May through October 15.
Walleye Finesse Tactics
When it comes to catching walleye in the Mississippi River, anglers will often employ finesse tactics to maximize their catches. The use of lures such as spinnerbaits, jerkbaits and small crankbaits are all effective on walleye, and are often paired with scents and natural or artificial bait fish. Anglers should also use heavier rods and line in order to adjust to the current and make sure the bait is presented properly.
Commercial Fishing
Fishing commercially along the Mississippi River has been practiced for centuries, with many communities relying on the river to provide their livelihood. Commercial fishes set up along the river catch a range of different species, including carp, catfish, buffalo, bass and walleye, with most of the catches used for human consumption. Recreational fishing is encouraged along the Mississippi, with many of the game species being managed sustainably.
River Cleanup Efforts
The Mississippi River has been subject to a variety of polluting forces over the years, but cleanup efforts have been successful in reducing the amount of contaminants in the water. From massive algal blooms to petrochemical pollution, the river is relatively healthy now and provides an excellent environment for the many fish species that inhabit it.
Recreational Fishing Opportunities
The Mississippi River offers some of the best recreational fishing opportunities in the country. From catfish to bass and walleye, there are plenty of species to target. Anglers will want to check local and state regulations before setting out, and always practice catch and release to ensure that the river’s ecosystem stays healthy and intact.
Preserving the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is a vital component of the ecosystem of the United States, flowing through ten states and providing habitat for several species of wildlife, including fish. It is important that anglers, commercial fisherman and lawmakers all work together to preserve this iconic waterway and ensure that it remains healthy for generations to come.
Environmental Considerations
As with any kind of fishing, environmental considerations should be taken into account. Anglers should always practice catch and release, as well as follow any laws and regulations in effect. Fishing properly can help to ensure that the river sustain a healthy population of fish, as well as other wildlife that inhabit or utilize the Mississippi.
The Future of the Mississippi River
While the future of the Mississippi River is uncertain, there are a number of initiatives in place to ensure the health of the river. Many states have implemented regulations for anglers and commercial fishermen, as well as efforts to reduce pollutants and conserve water. It is up to all of us to ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to experience all that the Mississippi River has to offer.
