Ross Barnett Reservoir Outlet / Pearl Riveron Pearl River
Water temperatures are cooling
- 01Water temperatures are cooling, stimulating active feeding among predatory species.
- 02Bass are actively following schooling shad into shallower areas and creek channels.
- 03Target fallen trees and dock pilings along river edges for bass concentration.
- 04Lower, brackish sections of the river offer good opportunities for redfish and flounder.
- 05Look for topwater action during warmer fall days, especially in calmer pockets.
What to tie on at Ross Barnett Reservoir Outlet / Pearl River
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
Hellgrammite Fly
Hellgrammites are a consistent, protein-rich food source in rocky river environments year-round. This subsurface nymph is a reliable pattern for bass (Largemouth, Smallmouth, Spotted) and catfish in the Pearl River.
Black Woolly Bugger (Bass)
A slow-stripped or dead-drifted black streamer imitates leeches and sculpins which are active even in near-freezing water.
Bead Chain Crab
Crabs are a primary forage for redfish, flounder, and sheepshead in the lower, brackish sections of the Pearl River. This subsurface pattern effectively imitates these crustaceans.
Buy at AmazonClouser Crayfish (river)
Crayfish are a primary food source for smallmouth and largemouth bass, as well as catfish, in the rocky areas of the Pearl River. This subsurface pattern is highly effective when stripped along the bottom.
Epoxy Minnow (Mississippi Shad)
Matches the slender profile of threadfin shad which are the primary forage in the Pearl River system during winter.
Weighted Pine Squirrel Leech
The natural squirrel fur pulses with even the slightest water movement, essential for enticing finicky fish in 45-55 degree water.
Zebra Midge
Even in winter, midges are the primary active insect. A black or red Zebra Midge is a staple for sunfish and can entice finicky bass in clearer winter water.
Buy at AmazonWoolly Bugger (Black)
A versatile streamer, effective year-round for predatory fish, especially as they become more active in warming spring waters, imitating leeches and baitfish.
Clouser Minnow (Bass) (Chartreuse/White)
Excellent baitfish imitation, effective for aggressive bass and other predatory species in varying water conditions.
Mississippi season by season
What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.
Fly shops nearby
Local flies, current advice and guided trips.