What You'll Find in the Little Biloxi River

The Little Biloxi River is a shallow, brackish estuary on Mississippi's Gulf Coast that holds redfish, spotted seatrout, and flounder year-round. The river runs roughly 12 miles from its headwaters near D'Iberville south to the Back Bay of Biloxi, where it meets saltwater. Most of the productive fishing happens in the lower half of the river, where tidal influence brings in baitfish and keeps water temperatures stable enough for consistent catches.

The river is narrow — rarely more than 200 yards across — and lined with marsh grass, mangrove roots, and shallow flats. This setup favors sight-casting and shallow-water techniques. Redfish dominate the catch, especially in spring and fall when they move into the shallows to feed. Spotted trout show up reliably in deeper holes and channel edges, particularly during cooler months. The river is also home to small tarpon and permit in summer, though they are not the main draw.

Access is straightforward. The river sits between Biloxi and Ocean Springs, with several public boat launches and wade-in points. The water is generally calm because the river is protected from Gulf swells by barrier islands. Tides run 1 to 2 feet, and the best fishing windows are typically 2 hours before and after high tide, when redfish move into the shallows to feed.

Key Takeaways

  • Redfish are the primary target in the Little Biloxi River, with peak seasons in spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) when they move into shallow flats.
  • Public boat launches are available at Biloxi Bay and near the Biloxi Yacht Club, and wade fishing is possible along marsh edges and shallow flats.
  • Spotted trout fishing is best in winter and early spring in deeper channel holes and around oyster reefs.
  • A Mississippi saltwater fishing license is required; non-residents can purchase a 3-day or annual license through the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources.
  • Tides control fishing success — plan trips for 2 hours before and after high tide when redfish feed in the shallows.

Seasons and What to Expect

Spring (March–May) is the prime redfish season. Water temperatures climb from the 50s to the 70s, and redfish move into shallow flats to spawn and feed. Sight-casting with topwater plugs or soft plastics in 1 to 3 feet of water produces consistent results. Spotted trout also bite well in deeper holes during this window. Expect calm conditions most days, though occasional rain and wind can muddy the water temporarily.

Summer (June–August) slows down for most anglers. Heat pushes redfish into deeper channels and creek mouths where they rest during the day. Early morning and late afternoon trips are more productive than midday. Tarpon and permit move into the river during this season, but they require specialized tackle and patience. Water temperatures reach the high 80s, and afternoon thunderstorms are common.

Fall (September–November) is the second-best season. Redfish return to the shallows as water cools, and spotted trout bite aggressively in October and November. September can still be hot and slow, but by October the fishing picks up significantly. This is also when larger redfish move through the river on their way to deeper Gulf waters, so you have a chance at fish over 25 pounds.

Winter (December–February) is spotty but can be excellent on warm days. Spotted trout congregate in deep holes and around oyster reefs, and they bite well on live shrimp and small mullet. Redfish are present but less active in cold water. Expect fewer anglers and calmer conditions, though occasional cold fronts can shut down fishing for a few days.

How to Access the River

The main public boat launch is at Biloxi Bay, located off Beach Boulevard near the Biloxi Yacht Club. This is a concrete ramp with parking and restroom facilities. From there, you can reach the lower Little Biloxi River in about 10 minutes at idle speed. The launch is free and open year-round, though it can get crowded on weekends during spring and fall.

Another option is to launch from Ocean Springs on the east side of the river. The Ocean Springs Harbor has a public ramp and is closer to the upper river if you want to explore the narrower sections and creek mouths. This launch also has parking and facilities.

Wade fishing is possible along the marsh edges and shallow flats, particularly near the Biloxi Bay area. Park at public access points along Beach Boulevard or near the Biloxi Yacht Club and walk into the shallows. Wading is best during low tide when flats are exposed and easier to navigate. Wear polarized sunglasses and move slowly to avoid spooking fish.

If you do not have a boat, several charter captains operate out of Biloxi and Ocean Springs. A half-day charter typically costs between $400 and $600 for two anglers, and the captain will handle navigation and know the current conditions. This is a good option if you are unfamiliar with the river or want to learn the tides and structure.

Tackle, Bait, and Techniques

For redfish, use a 7 to 8-foot medium-power spinning rod with 15 to 20-pound braided line. Topwater plugs work well in shallow water early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Soft plastics like 4-inch paddle-tail shads rigged on 1/8 to 1/4-ounce jig heads are effective all day. Live shrimp under a popping cork is a classic technique that works year-round, especially when fish are less aggressive.

Spotted trout require lighter tackle — a 6 to 7-foot medium spinning rod with 12-pound braided line. Small soft plastics (2 to 3 inches) and live shrimp are the go-to baits. Fish deeper holes and channel edges where trout hold during the day. Trout bite on the fall, so let your lure sink and work it slowly.

Sight-casting is the most rewarding approach in the Little Biloxi River. Pole slowly along the flats, watch for tailing redfish or cruising fish, and cast ahead of them. Use polarized sunglasses to cut glare and spot fish in shallow water. This requires patience and practice, but it produces larger fish and more memorable catches than blind casting.

Live bait — mullet, shrimp, and small pinfish — works well if you prefer a passive approach. Use a popping cork to keep bait suspended and create noise that attracts fish. This method is effective during slack tide when fish are less active.

Regulations and Licensing

A Mississippi saltwater fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. Non-residents can purchase a 3-day license, a 7-day license, or an annual license through the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources website or at local tackle shops. Prices vary, but a 3-day license typically costs around $15 to $20.

Redfish have a 18-inch minimum size limit and a 2-fish daily bag limit. Spotted trout must be at least 12 inches long, with a 15-fish daily bag limit. Flounder have an 12-inch minimum and a 10-fish daily bag limit. These regulations are current as of 2024, but check the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources website before your trip to confirm any changes.

No live baitfish collection is allowed in the river without a special permit. Buy bait from local tackle shops instead. Chumming is permitted, but do not leave chum bags or debris behind.

Nearby Amenities and Lodging

Biloxi is a full-service coastal town with hotels, restaurants, and tackle shops within minutes of the river. The Biloxi Yacht Club area has several waterfront restaurants where you can eat fresh seafood after your trip. Local tackle shops like Biloxi Bait and Tackle stock live bait, lures, and can provide current fishing reports and tide information.

Lodging ranges from budget motels to upscale resorts. If you want to stay close to the water, the Biloxi waterfront has several options. Ocean Springs, just across the river, is a quieter alternative with its own restaurants and shops. Both towns are about 90 minutes from Jackson and 2 hours from New Orleans.

Fuel and supplies are readily available. The Biloxi Marina and Ocean Springs Harbor both have fuel docks. Grocery stores and convenience shops are within a few miles of any launch point.

When to Avoid the River

Hurricane season runs June through November, with peak activity in August and September. While the Little Biloxi River is protected from Gulf swells, strong winds and heavy rain can make it unsafe to fish. Check the National Weather Service forecast before heading out, especially in late summer and early fall.

Cold fronts in winter can shut down fishing for 2 to 3 days as water temperatures drop rapidly and fish become inactive. Plan trips for the days immediately after a front passes, when water temperatures stabilize and fish resume feeding.

Avoid fishing during the hottest part of summer (July and August) unless you are targeting tarpon or permit. Redfish and trout are less active in extreme heat, and the fishing is slower. Early morning trips are your best bet during this season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of day to fish the Little Biloxi River?

Early morning (sunrise to 9 a.m.) and late afternoon (3 p.m. to sunset) are most productive. Redfish feed actively during these windows, especially on shallow flats. Midday fishing is slower, but deeper holes and channel edges can still produce spotted trout. Tide matters more than time of day — fish 2 hours before and after high tide regardless of the hour.

Can I fish the Little Biloxi River without a boat?

Yes. Wade fishing along the marsh edges and shallow flats is productive, especially near Biloxi Bay. Park at public access points and walk into the shallows during low tide. You can also hire a charter captain if you want to explore deeper water without owning a boat.

Do I need a guide to fish the Little Biloxi River?

No, but a guide is helpful if you are new to the river or want to learn sight-casting techniques. Local captains know the tides, structure, and current fish locations. A half-day charter costs $400 to $600 for two anglers and includes tackle advice and navigation.

What size redfish are typical in the Little Biloxi River?

Most redfish caught are 18 to 24 inches long. Fish over 25 pounds are possible, especially in fall and winter when larger fish move through the river. Slot-sized fish (18 to 27 inches) are common and make for good eating if you want to keep your catch.

Is the water in the Little Biloxi River safe to wade?

Yes, the water is generally safe. Wear wading boots to protect against sharp shells and oyster reefs. Watch for stingrays — shuffle your feet as you walk to alert them to your presence. Avoid wading in murky water where visibility is poor, and stay away from deep channels where boat traffic is heavy.