Mississippi isn’t just famous for its fried catfish and Southern hospitality – it’s also home to some of the most beautiful fishing spots in the country. Imagine reeling in a fat channel cat while the sky explodes in shades of orange, pink, and purple behind you. These twelve locations combine excellent catfish action with jaw-dropping sunset views that’ll make you want to stay out on the water just a little bit longer.
1. Ross Barnett Reservoir – Jackson, MS
Just northeast of Jackson, Ross Barnett Reservoir stretches across more than 30,000 acres, making it one of Mississippi’s premier catfish fisheries. Anglers pull in channel, blue, and flathead catfish year-round.
For sunsets, it’s unbeatable—the wide expanse of water and west-facing shorelines around Old Trace Park and the Highway 43 area offer glowing evening reflections across the rippling surface. Stay a little longer after your last cast and you’ll see why locals linger.
2. Sardis Lake – Near Oxford, MS
Known for its abundant catfish and easy shoreline access, Sardis Lake is also one of the state’s most scenic reservoirs. The open water stretches far enough that you can catch panoramic sunsets almost anywhere along the north or west banks.
Bring a lawn chair, fish from a pier or the dam area, and you’ll have front-row seats to both the evening bite and the golden glow over the treeline. It’s a spot where the fishing is as rewarding as the view.
3. Enid Lake – Yalobusha County
If you’re after peaceful surroundings and reliable catfish action, Enid Lake delivers both. This lake is a favorite among Mississippi anglers, thanks to its steady populations of channel and blue catfish…