Grenada Lake

1. Lifetime catches

Grenada Lake was formed by damming the Yalobusha River for seasonal flood control. It just so happens the dynamic terrain, undisturbed cypress habitat, and rich soil of the region creates a fish food frenzy. Seasonal level changes, particularly a lower winter water level, means food sources are concentrated and fish grow larger than they otherwise would. No matter who is making the list, this is one of the best crappie fishing experiences in the country: crappie over a foot long and commonly weighing near 3lbs! Crappie get most of the attention, but white bass, catfish, and bream are also plentiful.

While many northern lakes have size limits of just 8 inches on their crappie, Grenada Lake keepers must be longer than 12 inches. But don’t think that means you’ll fish all day and leave with an empty boat—the boat limit of 40 fish for three or more persons is regularly reached thanks to the help of experienced guides.

You don’t have to be an expert to reel in a photo-worthy fish at Grenada Lake, but with 36,000 acres of lake and 15 boat ramps, it is a huge advantage to spend at least one day on the water absorbing the knowledge of local guides. Grenada Lake Charters is a great option for a couple or group of friends who want to have an immersive fishing experience. They offer all-inclusive packages with meals, full days on the water, bait, tackle, cleaning and packing fish caught, and cabin lodging. Grenada Lake Crappie Guides was founded by local legend Brandon Fulghum, professional crappie angler and bait maker. His network of guides offers reasonable rates

for full days on the water using innovative techniques to fish any level of water. John Harrison has been crappie fishing on Grenada Lake for over 40 years and is 3 time Magnolia Crappie Club State Champion. He operates the longest running guide service in North Mississippi, JH Guide Services.

What good is a lake if you aren’t close enough to enjoy it? If you are looking for a cabin the family can enjoy, consider the 12 duplex cabins in Hugh White State Park. Some cabins have a screened in porch, while others have a living room area; many have a fireplace. If you have an RV, the lakeside camp spots are in the hundreds, but the prime campground views are from the Army Corps of Engineers’ campground property near the dam. These 50 full hookup sites have sweeping lake views perfect for gorgeous family photos or simply taking in for a quiet moment of reflection. From your porch you can see dozens of migratory birds crossing over the lake—

They say even a bad day on the lake is better than a great day in the office. Even so, you may need something to do other than fish—and if you don’t, someone in your family probably does. Watersports are permitted in Grenada lake, so bring along your tube or skis. If your kids enjoy playing in the sand or someone needs some reading time, there are six sandy beaches along the banks of the lake perfect for taking R&R to the next level.

The landscape surrounding Grenada is fascinating as it represents the shift from hills to fertile alluvial plains. Discover various hiking trails around the lake with climbs of up to 300 feet with stunning views of the Yalobusha River and lake. Try the Little Mountain Trail or Hidden Bluff for the best climbs. There are places for families who prefer to stay on the move, too. Chocchuma Fitness Trail is a one-mile workout/nature trail with 18 stations to get a full-body pump. The same North Abutment area also maintains a sports complex of tennis and basketball courts, baseball fields, picnic shelters, and playgrounds. The South Outlet Use Area is another can’t-miss with a resurfaced nature trail popular for bicycling with picnic pavilion areas, grills, and a playground. Another family-centric spot to check out is the Grenada Lake Visitors Center complete with the practically famous Sesame Street Playground (a serious must-visit for those with little ones!).

Halfway between Memphis and Jackson on I-55 (roughly an hour and a half from each), Grenada Lake is convenient to many cities for day trips and spontaneous weekends. Its position in the north-central part of the state means a dynamic landscape and mild year-round temperatures.

Only in July and August do high temperatures average just over 90F. And even in the somewhat frosty months, the lows only briefly dip into freezing, meaning fishing is year-round. The Grenada area is one of the least congested you can imagine, despite its ease of access. The town