Lake Buhlow Fishing Guide
Why fish here?
Choose Lake Buhlow for easy Pineville access, public launching, shoreline fishing and a convenient fishing stop close to Alexandria.
Lake Buhlow is a compact urban freshwater lake in Pineville, Rapides Parish, beside the Red River and Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site. The lake provides convenient Central Louisiana access for bass, crappie, bream and catfish anglers and is also used for boating and other recreation. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries stocking efforts have included channel catfish and Florida largemouth bass, including adult Florida bass released in 2025 to enhance the lake’s long-term bass fishery.
Local Knowledge
Best Areas to Fish
Bass anglers can work shoreline grass, points, visible cover and transition areas. Crappie may relate to deeper structure and cover, while bream and catfish can be targeted from accessible shoreline areas. Because the lake is compact, anglers can efficiently sample several habitat types in one trip.
Best for Beginners
Start along accessible shoreline with a small spinnerbait or soft plastic for bass, a jig or minnow for crappie, worms under a float for bream, or bottom bait for catfish. Early morning can be especially pleasant before recreational boat activity increases.
Visitor Tips
Lake Buhlow sits in Pineville close to Alexandria and Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site. The lake is also known locally for motorboat racing and has hosted high-speed boating events, so check the local schedule before planning a quiet fishing trip.
Fishing Access and Amenities
Public AccessPublic access is available at Lake Buhlow in Pineville. City recreation information identifies a boat ramp and pavilion area, and the Red River Waterway Commission maintains recreation facilities in the Lake Buhlow area. Check current local notices before travel.
Bank FishingYes — Lake Buhlow has long been used for shoreline fishing, with generally accessible banks in public recreation areas. Stay within legal public access and observe any posted event or temporary-closure restrictions.
Boat AccessYes — a public boat ramp provides access to Lake Buhlow. Boaters should watch for other recreational use and any temporary restrictions associated with events.
Kayak AccessYes — kayaks and other small craft can use legal public access when lake conditions and current rules allow. Paddle rentals may operate seasonally at the public ramp area.
Fishing PierShoreline fishing is the primary bank-fishing option; do not assume a dedicated public fishing pier is available unless currently posted on site.
Launch or Access FeeCheck current City of Pineville or recreation-area information for any event, facility or access fees before travel.
ParkingParking is available around developed public recreation and boat-access areas.
RestroomsRecreation facilities are available in the broader Lake Buhlow area; verify current restroom availability before travel.
CampingLake Buhlow is best treated as a day-use fishing and recreation destination. Verify any nearby overnight options separately before planning a camping trip.
Plan Your Fishing Trip
Boat Launches
Lake Buhlow Public Boat Ramp in Pineville provides developed public launching. Check current City of Pineville notices and local event schedules before towing a boat to the lake.
Camping and Lodging
Lake Buhlow is primarily a day-use recreation destination rather than a dedicated lake campground. Look to nearby Central Louisiana campgrounds for overnight stays.
Fishing License Information
A Louisiana fishing license is required when applicable. Statewide freshwater regulations apply along with City of Pineville restrictions on certain fishing devices. Always check current LDWF and local rules before fishing.