Vernon Lake Fishing Guide
Why fish here?
Target a proven trophy-bass lake that has produced largemouth bass over 12 pounds while still offering crappie, bream and a robust channel-catfish population.
Vernon Lake is a large freshwater reservoir in Vernon Parish near Leesville and Anacoco. LDWF manages largemouth bass to give anglers opportunities for fish of greater-than-average size and has used Florida largemouth bass introductions to support trophy potential. Crappie, sunfish and catfish round out a strong multi-species fishery.
Local Knowledge
Best Areas to Fish
Target creek channels, points, vegetation, docks, brush, submerged timber and spawning coves. Trophy-bass anglers should focus on high-percentage structure and seasonal movement rather than covering random water.
Best for Beginners
Use soft plastics, jigs, spinnerbaits and moving baits around cover for bass. Crappie anglers can target brush and channel edges; LDWF notes a robust channel-catfish population that can support harvest.
Visitor Tips
Vernon Lake has genuine big-bass history, including documented catches above 12 pounds. Treat it as a serious bass destination rather than merely a local recreation lake.
Fishing Access and Amenities
Public AccessVernon Parish lists Bevins Landing, Hickory Ridge Boat Launch, Vernon Lake Spillway Park and Twin Bridges Boat Launch as public access options; Hickory Ridge Recreation Park adds camping and family facilities.
Bank FishingDeveloped parks and launch areas provide the best legal shoreline opportunities. Do not assume undeveloped private shoreline is open to public fishing.
Boat AccessExcellent, with several public launch choices around the reservoir. Verify ramp and lake-level conditions before travel.
Kayak AccessGood in protected coves and shoreline zones, but wind can build on the larger open lake.
Fishing PierDock/bank opportunities are available at developed recreation areas; verify current facility status.
Launch or Access FeeVaries by site; verify current fees before travel.
ParkingUse designated parking at established public access sites.
RestroomsAvailable at selected developed recreation areas; facilities vary by access point.
CampingHickory Ridge Recreation Park provides tent/RV camping and developed amenities; verify current fees and availability before travel.
Plan Your Fishing Trip
Boat Launches
Bevins Landing Boat Launch; Hickory Ridge Boat Launch; Vernon Lake Spillway Park; Twin Bridges Boat Launch. Vernon Parish currently lists these as free boat launches, while Hickory Ridge Recreation Park itself is pay-per-use.
Camping and Lodging
Hickory Ridge Recreation Park provides tent/RV camping and developed amenities; verify current fees and availability before travel.
Fishing License Information
A current Louisiana freshwater fishing license is required when applicable. Follow current LDWF statewide and waterbody-specific regulations.