Guide to Big Bass Fishing at Caney Lake

When you think of the term powerhouse, you probably think of football. But when it comes to bass fishing in Louisiana, we think of Caney Lake.

At first glance, Caney Lake might seem unassuming. The secluded Jackson Parish lake is only 5,000 acres — but don’t be fooled. It promises huge largemouth bass, especially lunker (the state record is a 15.97-pounder!). Hardly a month goes before someone reels in a 10-12 pounder. In fact, six of the top ten largemouth bass records have been caught in Louisiana on this very lake.

The lake’s facilities are nice, too. The lake is located within Jimmie Davis State Park, which offers two boat launches, 11 fishing piers and numerous amenities for fishermen. There are also public launches at Ebenezer Landing and at the dam, while Brown’s Landing offers launching, a commercial store and a restaurant on the north end of the lake.

Find out more about the area at Jackson Parish Tourism.

How do you catch largemouth bass?

Bass fishing is best in mid- to late-spring when the water is warm. Consider using plastic lizards, jigs and Wacky Worms (use dark colors on cloudy days and gold flake or watermelon on sunny days).

Unlike most state lakes, Caney is wide open and clear. There are some deep areas, but the lake is typically shallow. Some of the best early-season bass fishing happens on the northeast side, but anywhere along the bank produces fish, including creek channels, humps and off points. 

Kinny Haddox is an avid outdoorsman and writer from West Monroe, Louisiana. He is the publisher of LakeDarbonneLife.com and a feature writer for Louisiana Sportsman magazine.

Learn more about Louisiana fishing and fishing licenses through our Fishing Resources page.