Last Updated on April 15, 2025 by Madeleine Hollis
Bassmaster Magazine, a national publication that is trusted by anglers far and wide, listed six Louisiana fishing spots in their 2024 Best Bass Lakes guide. Here are their top picks.
1. Bussey Brake Reservoir
Bussey Brake, located right below the Arkansas state line, reopened in 2020 with the goal of prioritizing recreational fishing. At 2,200 acres, the lake is certainly not the biggest in the area, but it may be the highest (currently) in terms of quality. This is because the lake was completely drained and renovated, and is now experiencing what scientists call the “new lake effect.”
In the first 5 years after renovation, lakes are known to peak in terms of fishing quality. That means that there is no better time to go than right now. The opportunity for sizable catches is greater than ever at Bussey Brake, where the record was broken in 2023 after a local fisherman caught a 26-inch long, 15.36-pound bass. Along with a large and diverse fish population, local anglers can now enjoy three fishing piers, a boat dock, and a wave break.
Predominant species: largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and red-ear sunfish.
2. Caney Creek Reservoir
Caney Crake, located in Jackson Parish, is a 5,000 acre lake that offers clear water and some pretty hefty catches. Don’t be fooled by the size of the lake; Caney Creek holds 6 of the 10 state records for largest catches in Louisiana. This includes the standing state record for largemouth bass, set in 1994 at 15.97-pounds. For the best bass fishing, it’s recommended that fishermen visit in mid-to late Spring, but large catches of 10+ pounds are common year-round.
The reservoir is found within Jimmie Davis State Park, and offers numerous amenities to fishermen, including two boat launches and 11 fishing piers. If you’re looking to plan a family weekend, you’ll also find campgrounds and lodges, as well as playgrounds and a popular beach area. This is a well-rounded outdoor retreat that provides plenty of recreation and relaxation for any kind of visitor.
Predominant species: stringers, bass, crappie, bream and catfish
3. Toledo Bend Reservoir
If you’re a fisherman in Louisiana, you’ve likely heard of Toledo Bend. This massive lake, spanning a whopping 181,000 acres across Louisiana and Texas, has been America’s #1 bass fishery since the 1990’s. Toledo Bend is not only famous for its size, but for the larger-than-average catches it offers throughout the year. Though the obvious catch at Toledo Bend is bass, the reservoir also sees an excellent number of crappie and catfish catches.
As one of the largest lakes in the nation, Toledo Bend offers numerous amenities to visiting anglers. Two Louisiana state parks are nestled along the shoreline, so you’ll find no shortage of fishing piers, campgrounds, and cabins. They hold tournaments consistently throughout the year, and offer a number of guides to help you catch just about any predominant species in the area. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Toledo Bend.
Predominant species: largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, white & striped bass
4. Lake D’Arbonne
Lake D’Arbonne, located in Farmerville, is a 15,000 acre man-made lake that offers some of the best freshwater species variety in the state. This is a great spot for night owls, as they say that fishing is best on Lake D’Arbonne between 9pm-11pm and 2am-4am. It also has the perk of offering year-round catches, as crappie can often be found in the deeper waters during cold months.
Lake D’Arbonne is a cherished spot for families and lovers of all things outdoors. They offer five fishing piers, as well as cabins, campgrounds, hiking trails, and a nature center. Great for fishing and fun for the whole family!
Predominant species: black crappie, black drum, blue catfish, bluegill, channel catfish, flathead catfish, freshwater drum, green sunfish, largemouth bass, longear sunfish
5. Caddo Lake
Caddo Lake, located on the Northern border between Louisiana and Texas, is a 25,000 acre flooded cypress forest that is known for its natural beauty. Though you can fish year-round, the most popular fishing season starts around Spring, lasting from April to September. Caddo Lake is home to over 70 species of fish, the most popular being the largemouth bass.
If you’re looking for a well-rounded outdoor experience, Caddo Lake has everything you need for a peaceful or activity-filled retreat. Aside from the fishing pier and boat launch, you can find paddling and boat trails, hiking trails, and campgrounds/cabins.
Predominant species: largemouth bass; crappie; white bass; sunfish; channel, blue, and flathead catfish
6. Lake Bistineau
Lake Bistineau, located right outside of Shreveport/Bossier, is a 15,000 acre lake that was formed in a flood over 200 years ago. Cypress trees are abundant, and small islands are scattered along the open water, giving a home to the diverse forms of wildlife living along the lake.
Bass are bountiful here, and average around 2-3 pounds, though it’s not uncommon to catch one in the 5-7 pound range. The popular fishing season starts around January, but the best months are considered to be February and March. If you plan on fishing from a boat, it’s recommended that you go into Lake Bistineau with some familiarity of the area, or at least a good depth finder. Though the Lake is considered to be mostly shallow water, you’ll want to know where the flats (and consequently, the fish) are hiding. For other recreational endeavors, Lake Bistineau offers hiking trails as well as more unique amenities like equestrian trails and a disc golf course.
Predominant species: black crappie, largemouth bass, yellow bass, catfish, bluegill, and red-ear sunfish
