What Kind of Gear to Use
Many seasoned Mississipi anglers likely have their tried-and-true list of equipment they like to use when out on the water. But for anglers just beginning to get a feel for river fishing, it can be hard to decide which gear best suits them. Generally, the Mississipi is suitable for a variety of fishing styles, and the choice of equipment can make all the difference in terms of having a successful day on the water.
The first step is to make sure to use the correct rod. Choosing a rod that’s too short or too light won’t be helpful when it comes to casting weight or distance. On the other hand, if a rod is too long or too heavy, it can be difficult to handle and not very enjoyable. Generally, anglers should look for rods that are labeled no longer than 8 to 10 feet and in the medium-to-heavy range of the weight spectrum.
When it comes to the reel, the choice can be made between a spinning reel or a baitcasting reel. Spinning reels are usually the go-to option for easy loading, unloading, and control. Baitcasting reels can be used for heavier baits and when accuracy is necessary. An experienced river angler may suggest having both types of reels on board to get a good feel for both.
Loaded with the correct type of line – such as braided, monofilament, or fluorocarbon – the final step is to decide on the best type of lure. Due to the deep waters of the Mississipi and its wide range of fish types, anglers should be sure to have different types of lures of varying sizes on their gear list. Some of the most popular options are crankbaits, jerkbaits, dropshots, and swimbaits.
Whats the Best Time to Fish?
As with most types of fishing, timing can make a big difference in the amount of success an angler finds on the Mississipi River. Even when it comes to river fishing, the best times of day are usually in the morning and evening when the water is a bit more still and the fish tend to be more active.
Many serious anglers often recommend setting out either just before the sun begins to rise or just after it’s dropped past the horizon and the water has a chance to cool. However, in certain situations, the fish can be seen biting throughout the whole day. For example, when the water temperature is good, the barometric pressure is changing, and the humidity is high, fish from all over the river can become active.
Of course, the time of year also plays a role in how likely an angler is to catch fish. Since the Mississipi River is mostly a warm-water river, the best chances of success come with warm weather. Summer and early autumn are popular seasons, and many new anglers prefer to give it a go during those times.
Where Are the Best Spots?
The next step is to find good spots to try and hook the fish. Unfortunately, this can be a bit tricky and determining the exact spot can be a bit of a time investment.
A knowledgeable angler may confess that it’s best to fish away from the public spots and campgrounds and head towards areas with deeper pools, pools with logs and rocks, and also towards points that lead to the deeper waters – known as ‘structure’.
Anglers who want help finding locations can hire a river guide. Hiring a guide might help new anglers learn the basics of fishing the waters and learning to locate the right structure and find the stealthier and better-catching areas. The Mississipi often boasts shallow waters near shore, but with a knowledgeable guide, anglers can find better quality spots in the deeper waters.
What About Necesary Permits?
Before heading out to the Mississipi River for a fishing trip, it’s important to make sure anglers have all the necessary permits and licenses for the area.
These requirements can vary from county to county and from lake to lake, which is why it’s important to double check the local regulations and ordinances. Some permits and licenses may be given for special areas of the river, contain certain limitations, and may require certain fees. Generally, a fishing license of some kind is necessary in most locations.
It’s also important to keep track of the size of the fish and any local regulations that can impact how many fish can be kept or released during the same day. Depending on the specific area, each angler will be given a certain limit of fish they can catch that day, so make sure to pay attention to the details on any permits and licenses obtained.
What to Do with the Catch?
Once an angler has been lucky enough to catch something big, there are various ways to prepare the feast. Depending on the type of fish caught, some anglers prefer to fry it up for a nice hot meal. Others like to stick to grilling, which can bring out some flavor and make the skin crispy.
Of course, the real deal is to smoke it – either over an open fire or in a smoker. Smoking the catch can be the most delicious option and is well worth the occasional hassle. Experimenting with recipes and side dishes can bring the Mississipi River experience to the dinner plate.
What Safety Precautions to Take
Although a day spent fishing on the river can be a joyous adventure, safety should always come first. The river can be a bit tricky, especially during higher water levels.
Anglers should always be conscious of their surroundings, check the weather before setting out, and make sure that they are wearing the right type of clothing. Despite the warm waters, the Mississipi can get downright cold during the cooler months and its best to make sure one is wearing the right type of jacket or outerwear.
Many anglers also like to take along flares or sound emitter devices, and make sure their boat is outfitted with a working navigation system to avoid any mishaps.
Tips for Beginners
For a new angler, fishing on the Mississippi can be intimidating. But, with a bit of practice, patience, and guidance from a professional or experienced local, Mississippi fishing can be a pleasant and rewarding experience.
Start by picking up a beginner’s guide to Mississippi fishing and learn about the basics of the river and the fish that live in it. Next, watch out for any local events or fishing tournaments and reach out to the local communities, guides, or captains. Knowing all the local fishing regulations and laws is a must. Last, but not least, research the areas you’re interested in and focus on the particular techniques needed to catch fish in those particular waters.
It’s also best to start out small and build up as you gain experience. That way, you can get a firm footing and learn what works and what doesn’t without spending too much money on equipment or licenses.
Knowing the Fish to Target
The Mississipi River is teeming with diverse species of fish.Depending on the season, anglers can expect to see a variety of different species from different groups of fish.
On the larger end, some of the most popular gamefish include catfish, largemouth bass, and carp. Smallmouth bass, walleye, muskies, and white bass are some of the seasonal prizes and can put up quite a fight. On the smaller end, anglers can expect to see sunfish, crappie, and other types of panfish.
When it comes to fishing on the Mississipi, each unique species has its own unique characteristics and needs particular baits or rules of thumb. Before heading out, make sure to do some research on what each fish likes to eat and what color lures, sizes, and depths work best for each species.
Setting the Right Bait and Lure
For some Mississippi anglers, the only bait and lures that are necessary for a successful day on the water are jigs, spinners, and crankbaits. However, for more experienced river fishers, getting creative with the baits, lures, and lure colors can increase the chances of finding the bigger, more succulent fish.
Most Mississipi River anglers swear by using locally sourced bait, such as worms and minnows. By using local bait, anglers can attract the species who are used to the water and are more likely to be found in those areas.
However, finding and using the right type of lure can make all the difference in terms of landing a Keeper. Before heading out on the water, it helps to research the types of lures that work best in the particular areas as well as the color of lures. Most anglers tend to stick to lighter colors such as white, yellow, and chartreuse, as they seem to be effective no matter which season.
Conclusion
Fishing on the Mississippi River can be both a thrilling journey and a test of skill and knowledge. Understanding what equipment to use, the best times of day to head out, knowing where to fish and the local regulations, preparing the catch, taking the necessary safety precautions, and setting the right bait and lures – all these things can make the difference between a successful fishing trip and an unsuccessful one.
But, with a bit of practice and by getting to know the waters and the fish, a successful day on the river does not have to be only a dream. All it takes is knowledge, preparation, and patience – and the Mississipi is waiting.
