What You'll Find at Long Beach Harbor

Long Beach Harbor, located on Mississippi's Gulf Coast near Biloxi, is a working commercial port that also draws recreational anglers year-round. The harbor itself—the deep-water channel and basin—holds redfish, spotted seatrout, and flounder in the shallower margins and around structure. The real fishing happens in the waters immediately surrounding the harbor: the Mississippi Sound to the north, the barrier islands and their passes to the south, and the nearshore Gulf waters beyond. Access is limited to public boat launches and charter services rather than direct harbor-side fishing, because the port operates as an active shipping lane.

The harbor sits at the mouth of the Pearl River system, which means freshwater influence shapes what species are present and when. Winter brings cooler, saltier water and pushes fish into deeper channels. Summer heat and freshwater runoff create a layered water column that concentrates fish in specific depth zones. Spring and fall are the most predictable seasons for consistent action, with stable water conditions and active feeding across multiple species.

Key Takeaways

  • Redfish and spotted seatrout are the primary targets in Long Beach Harbor and surrounding waters, with flounder and Spanish mackerel available depending on season.
  • Public boat launches are located at the Biloxi Small Craft Harbor and at various points along the Mississippi Sound, but direct harbor access for recreational fishing is restricted.
  • Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) offer the most stable fishing conditions and highest catch rates.
  • A Mississippi saltwater fishing license is required for all anglers 16 and older, and redfish have a daily bag limit of three fish per person.
  • Charter services operating out of Biloxi provide guided access to the harbor, passes, and nearshore waters if you do not have your own boat.

Seasons and Water Conditions

Spring (March through May) is the most reliable season for Long Beach Harbor fishing. Water temperatures climb from the mid-50s to the low 70s, and redfish move into the shallows to feed and spawn. Spotted seatrout follow the same pattern, congregating around oyster reefs, grass beds, and channel edges. Tides are moderate, and wind patterns are generally predictable, making it easier to position a boat and work structure. Catch rates are high, and fish size tends to be consistent.

Summer (June through August) brings heat and freshwater runoff from the Pearl River system. Water temperatures exceed 80 degrees, and salinity drops in the upper harbor. Redfish and trout move to deeper channels and the mouths of passes where cooler, saltier water enters. Spanish mackerel and king mackerel become more active in the nearshore Gulf. Early morning and late afternoon fishing is more productive than midday, when fish retreat to deeper water or suspend in the water column.

Fall (September through November) mirrors spring in many ways. Water temperatures drop from the 80s to the 60s, and fish move back into the shallows to feed heavily before winter. Redfish and trout are aggressive, and flounder move into the harbor from deeper Gulf waters to feed before migrating offshore. October and early November are peak months. Late November can be productive, but weather becomes less predictable.

Winter (December through February) is the slowest season. Water temperatures drop to the 50s, and fish concentrate in the deepest channels and the mouths of passes. Redfish and trout are still present but less active and more difficult to locate. Flounder fishing can be good in the deeper holes, but overall catch rates decline. Many recreational anglers shift focus to nearshore structure and offshore waters during winter.

Species and What to Target

Redfish are the most sought-after species in Long Beach Harbor. They are present year-round but most abundant in spring and fall. They feed on crustaceans and small fish around oyster reefs, grass beds, and channel structure. Redfish respond well to live shrimp, mullet, and crab. The daily bag limit is three fish per person, and the slot size is 18 to 27 inches (only one fish over 27 inches is allowed per day). Fish under 18 inches must be released.

Spotted seatrout are equally common and often easier to catch than redfish, especially for less experienced anglers. They school in deeper channels during summer and move to the shallows in spring and fall. Trout are aggressive feeders and respond to both live bait and artificial lures. The daily bag limit is 25 fish per person, with no minimum size, though most anglers target fish 12 inches and larger. Trout are excellent table fare and are often kept for dinner.

Flounder are present in the harbor from late summer through winter, with peak numbers in fall and early winter. They are bottom feeders that prefer deeper channels and holes. Live mullet and shrimp are the standard baits. Flounder have a daily bag limit of 10 fish per person and a minimum size of 12 inches. They are excellent eating and are a popular winter target.

Spanish mackerel appear in the nearshore waters and harbor mouth from late spring through fall, with peak activity in summer and early fall. They are fast, aggressive feeders that respond to small silver spoons, shrimp, and live baitfish. Spanish mackerel have no minimum size and a daily bag limit of 15 fish per person. They are not as commonly kept as redfish or trout but are good eating when fresh.

Access and Boat Launches

The Biloxi Small Craft Harbor, located on the mainland side of Biloxi, is the primary public boat launch for accessing Long Beach Harbor and the Mississippi Sound. The facility has multiple concrete ramps, parking for trailers, and amenities including fuel and a fish-cleaning station. A launch fee is charged per boat. The harbor is protected and relatively shallow, making it suitable for boats of all sizes, though larger vessels may need to time their departure with tidal conditions.

Alternative launches are available at various points along the Sound, including facilities near Ocean Springs and Pascagoula to the east. These launches provide access to the same waters but may involve a longer run to reach the harbor proper. Check with the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources for current conditions and any seasonal closures.

If you do not own a boat, charter services operating out of Biloxi offer guided trips into the harbor, around the barrier islands, and into nearshore Gulf waters. Charters typically run half-day and full-day trips and provide tackle, bait, and instruction. They are a good option for visiting anglers or those new to the area.

Regulations and Licensing

All anglers 16 years old and older must hold a valid Mississippi saltwater fishing license. Licenses are available through the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources website, at tackle shops, and at many retail locations. A three-day temporary license is available for visitors. The license covers saltwater fishing in state waters and is required whether you fish from a private boat, a charter, or the shore.

Bag limits, size restrictions, and closed seasons vary by species and change periodically. Redfish have a daily bag limit of three fish per person with a slot size of 18 to 27 inches. Spotted seatrout have a 25-fish daily limit with no minimum size. Flounder have a 10-fish daily limit and a 12-inch minimum size. Spanish mackerel have a 15-fish daily limit and no minimum size. Check the current Mississippi saltwater fishing regulations before you fish, as these rules are subject to change.

The harbor itself is a working commercial port, and recreational fishing is not permitted within the active shipping channel. Stick to the designated recreational fishing areas and respect any posted restrictions. The barrier islands and passes are open to public fishing, but some areas may have seasonal closures or restrictions related to wildlife management.

Tackle and Bait Recommendations

Live bait is the most effective choice for redfish and trout in Long Beach Harbor. Live shrimp are the standard, available at most tackle shops in Biloxi. Live mullet and pinfish are also productive, especially for larger redfish and flounder. Dead shrimp and cut mullet work when live bait is not available or when you want to fish multiple rods.

Artificial lures are effective for trout and mackerel. Small silver spoons (1/4 to 1/2 ounce) mimic baitfish and trigger strikes from trout and Spanish mackerel. Soft plastic shrimp imitations and small swimbaits work well in shallow water around structure. Topwater plugs can be productive in early morning and late afternoon, especially in spring and fall.

Rod and reel setup depends on your target species. A 6- to 7-foot medium-action spinning rod with 15- to 20-pound braided line is suitable for redfish and trout. A slightly heavier setup (20- to 30-pound line) is better for flounder and mackerel. Use a monofilament or fluorocarbon leader (12 to 20 pounds) to reduce visibility and improve bite rates. Circle hooks (1/0 to 3/0) are effective for live bait and reduce deep hooking.

Nearby Amenities and Services

Biloxi is a full-service coastal town with tackle shops, restaurants, fuel docks, and lodging options. The Biloxi Small Craft Harbor area has fuel, ice, and fish-cleaning facilities. Several tackle shops in downtown Biloxi and near the harbor sell live bait, tackle, and fishing licenses. They also provide current information about water conditions, recent catches, and productive areas.

Restaurants throughout Biloxi specialize in fresh seafood, and many will prepare your catch if you ask. The town also has hotels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds for anglers planning a multi-day trip. The Biloxi Lighthouse and the Mississippi Gulf Coast are popular attractions if you want to combine fishing with other activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Long Beach Harbor?

No. Charter services in Biloxi offer guided trips into the harbor and surrounding waters. If you have your own boat, the Biloxi Small Craft Harbor provides public launch access. Shore fishing is limited but possible at certain points along the Sound.

What is the best time of year to fish Long Beach Harbor?

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are the most productive seasons. Water temperatures are moderate, fish are active, and weather is generally stable. Summer can be good early and late in the day, but midday fishing is slow.

Can I keep redfish I catch in Long Beach Harbor?

Yes, redfish can be kept within the slot size of 18 to 27 inches, with a daily limit of three fish per person. One fish over 27 inches is allowed per day. Fish under 18 inches must be released. Check current regulations before you fish.

What should I bring for a day of fishing at Long Beach Harbor?

Bring sunscreen, a hat, polarized sunglasses, and plenty of water. Wear non-slip shoes, as boat decks can be slippery. If you are bringing your own boat, bring a cooler, first-aid kit, and a throwable flotation device. A fishing license is required.

Are there fish in the harbor during winter?

Yes, but catch rates are lower. Redfish and trout concentrate in the deepest channels and are less active in cold water. Flounder fishing can be productive in deep holes. Winter is the slowest season overall, and many anglers focus on nearshore structure instead.