The small Gulf Coast city of Biloxi, Mississippi, is well known for its casinos and seafood. Every year, thousands of classic cars cruise beachfront Hwy 90 for the annual Cruisin’ The Coast car show. Perhaps less known, the fishing in Biloxi is diverse and easy to access.
The Insider’s Guide to Fishing Biloxi, Mississippi
What’s Biting
Speckled trout, redfish, white trout and flounder are always available. Lucky anglers encounter striped bass and tarpon.
Season
The best shot at a big speckled trout is spring and fall, especially on overcast days with strong tidal currents. When the water is dirty, dark-color lures are best. Big suspending twitchbaits like the MirrOlure MirrOdine XXL appeal to the biggest trout. Check with local bait shops for an up-to-date report.
Rigged Up
Hit the rock jetties on the west end of Deer Island for the best fishing. Fish the down current side of the cuts. Fish stage in the slack water and wait on bait swept through the rocks. For trophy trout, free line a live croaker into the current eddy. A live shrimp dangled under a popping cork is another go-to rig. Big topwater lures get ferocious hits.
Kayak Gear
Be prepared to beach launch and cover a lot of water. A kayak cart with balloon tires makes it easier to cross the sand. To increase range on open water, a pedal system or motor cuts the distance to the fish.
Game Plan
Launch from the beach at Biloxi Lighthouse. In peak tourist season, show up early to find a parking spot. Make the short paddle across the channel to the west end of Deer Island. The jetty rocks always hold speckled trout, redfish and flounder. Be sure to fish around the points during tide changes.
Outfitters
Gorenflo’s Tackle Shop (gorenflostackle.com) has been in business since the 1930s, so they carry everything to get fully outfitted for local fishing. The knowledgeable staff are ready to recommend the best lures and locations.
Where to Stay
Stay with the whole family at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Resort and play on the rooftop water playground. For the budget-friendly angler, pack a tent and cross the channel to camp on Deer Island. You’ll be minutes from the best fishing in Biloxi. For a romantic stay, check into the White House Hotel (whitehousebiloxi.com). Circa 1890, the building takes me back to simpler times.
Where to Eat
Head down to Biloxi harbor to buy shrimp straight off the boat. Just look for the hand-painted signs. Local restaurants like Patio 44 and The Ole Biloxi Fillin Station serve the freshest local seafood. Shrimp po’boys is the most popular dish along the Mississippi coast.
Redfish and speckled trout are a sure bet. | Feature photo: Jeff Jones
