An image of a small child fishing.

Available species include bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, channel catfish, carp, buffalo and gar. The portion of the refuge that borders the Mississippi River consists of a series of sandbars and islands that provide habitat for big river fish such as flathead catfish, blue catfish and pallid sturgeon, which is currently on the endangered species list. Sport fishing is permitted year-round on most areas of the refuge. Spring is the best time for fishing, with the receding backwater floods. The refuge has two boat ramps.

Laws, rules, and regulations