The Mississippi River stretches over 2,300 miles, offering anglers countless fishing opportunities. From northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, the river’s diverse ecosystems are home to catfish, walleye, smallmouth bass, crappie, and more. Summer is a prime season to hit the water, and knowing where to go makes all the difference. Here are five of the best fishing spots along the Mississippi River for anglers looking for action and scenery.
1. Lake Pepin – Minnesota/Wisconsin Border
Located about an hour southeast of the Twin Cities, Lake Pepin is a naturally occurring lake on the Mississippi River. It’s famous for its walleye, northern pike, and trophy catfish. Summer offers peak activity, with shoreline casting and boat trolling both being productive. Early morning and late evening bites are often the best.
Trending Tip: Vertical jigging with minnows or leeches near the drop-offs is a popular summer technique here.
2. Pool 9 – Lansing, Iowa
Pool 9 is a prime location for bass fishing, especially smallmouth. The scenic bluffs and backwaters provide cover for panfish and predator species alike. During summer, bass can be found cruising weed lines and feeding near submerged timber.
Viral Strategy: Use weedless soft plastics or walk-the-dog topwater lures early in the day to capitalize on surface bites.
3. Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis offers urban river fishing at its finest. The Mississippi here is deeper and wide, attracting monster catfish. Blue cats and flatheads are the main draw. Shoreline access is available, but boat anglers can get to hidden hot spots.
Popular Tactic: Drift fishing with cut bait or live sunfish yields excellent results during hot summer days.
4. Alton, Illinois (Lock and Dam 26)
A short drive from St. Louis, the area around Lock and Dam 26 is known for hybrid striped bass, sauger, and white bass. Fast-moving currents near the structure make it ideal for fish to congregate in feeding lanes.
Hot Trend: Bounce crankbaits or jig spoons along current seams. Focus on slack water pockets behind wing dams.
5. Venice, Louisiana
The final stretch of the Mississippi before it spills into the Gulf is legendary for its fishing. Redfish, speckled trout, and largemouth bass thrive here in the brackish waters. In summer, baitfish move inland, attracting predators in droves.
Summertime Highlight: Combine offshore and inland fishing by launching in Venice and hitting nearby bays and inlets.
Image: outdoorlife
