*Chotard and Albemarle are two oxbow lakes formed by the Mississippi River. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP), oversees the fisheries resources and provides regular fishing reports

Chotard and Albemarle are two oxbow lakes formed by the Mississippi River. These two lakes are 1,123 and 657 acres in size, respectively. Chotard remains connected to the Mississippi River by a narrow chute at the south end of the lake, and is accessible from the river when the water level is 13’ or higher (Vicksburg gage).

Fishing Report - Updated 5/29/24

SpeciesDetail
Largemouth BassBass can be caught near springs along the eastern shore of Albemarle. Try crawfish, finesse worms, soft stick baits, and jigs around the edges of trees, bushes, and docks. Lipless crankbaits and shad raps are good choices around rocks. The canal between Chotard and Albemarle is another good area to try.
CrappieThese lakes are known to have big crappie and a lot of them. Try using minnows or jigs around the willow trees. If you cannot find them there, try some of the deeper treetops along the lake. Also, slow-trolling open waters can be an effective method.
BreamBream can be caught using crickets or redworms around treetops or cypress stumps in 3 – 8 feet of water.
CatfishTry and find deep areas of the lake. Catfish are also around deep structure. Some of the best lures to use are commercial stinkbaits. Commercial stinkbaits give off strong odors that attract fish. Other good baits to use are liver and cut bait.
Water Level

Fishing on Chotard and Albemarle is always dependent upon the MS River level and movement.  For best results on these lakes, always check the MS River report to know if the river is moving in or out of the lake and target areas of moving water for improved fishing.  Fishing is typically best when the river is on a slow fall.  For most boats, access to the river is almost impossible when the river is below 15 feet (Vicksburg Gauge).

 According to the National Weather Service (NWS) the Mississippi River at Vicksburg is currently at 37.36 feet. The river is projected to slowly fall to 35.7 on 06/02/2024 before rising again.

Special Fishing Regulations and Creel Limits

*Chotard & Albemarle Lakes Interactive Map

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