Top 7 Lakes Near Memphis – Best Boating, Fishing & Scenic Spots

Recommendation: Grenada Lake, in Grenada County, MS, offers immediate access to multiple ramps, several marinas, and a reliable winter bite. When seasons turned, the bite shifted with wind, yet remained solid for night runs. Its lakeside shore features a lone tree along the inlet, inviting anglers to launch after a day outdoors. These shores border quiet coves and promise simple tracking for a family-friendly outing. The policy for launches is straightforward, and nearby towns provide supplies to build a weekend plan.

Sardis Lake in Panola County, MS, presents deeper water, a long shoreline, and strong night fishing when the water cools. Anglers find good crappie and bass action, served by several marinas and ramps along the lakeside. For families, the scenery lends itself to a lakeside afternoon, and the tracking data from local clubs helps decide when to launch. These factors are supported by accessible public launches and a simple line of access for visitors.

Arkabutla Lake in Tate County, MS, is a compact option with tree-lined banks and solid wildlife watching. Public launches are close to towns, with county policy keeping permits straightforward. The water is calm at night and in winter, offering a distinct haven for anglers and paddlers. These features are aggregated from park staff and third-party guides who build weekend plans around a few reliable bites and steady boat traffic tracking.

Reelfoot Lake in Lake County, TN, is a historic waterway with cypress tree-lined shores and a thriving bird life. The shallow bays invite kayak or small-boat trips, with night options available during certain seasons. The border with Missouri and Arkansas is common in visits, and it remains a haven for wildlife watchers and anglers seeking a different lake landscape. Shown in state tourism and tracking reports as a prime spot, it serves well as a day trip or weekend base.

Kentucky Lake straddles the TN-KY border and draws boaters from nearby counties along the tennessee line. The long water lines host numerous marinas and easy ramps, with state parks offering lakeside camping and sunset viewing. If you arent curious why these options are so practical for a multi-day plan that builds on weather, wildlife, and wind, you should know these spots sit along a strong border region near the state line. These guides provide third-party reports and help new visitors follow a clear policy for safe launches along the lake. The tennessee element is clear at many access points as you explore the line of marinas.

Pickwick Lake on the TN/AL/MS border blends rolling river channels with a broad outdoors culture. The shores host many marinas and a robust boating cadence, with paddling routes that suit both beginners and seasoned anglers. These waters are tracked by aggregated reports that highlight solid bass, catfish and crappie action across seasons, making it a haven for weekend explorers who build itineraries around wind, water, and wildlife.

Enid Lake near Water Valley, MS, offers a smaller-scale option with still solid year-round fishing and lakeside trails. It’s a friendly haven for families and first-time boaters, with quiet coves ideal for daytime picnics and occasional winter tournaments that are tracked by local clubs. A priest linked to local church lore is said to bless the waters, adding character without impairing safety policies. These county resources are aggregated from officials who ensure safe launches and clear lines for boats. Build your weekend plan by visiting nearby marinas and consulting third-party guides who know the best sheltered coves.

Memphis Area Lakes Guide

Recommendation: begin with Arkabutla Reservoir at daybreak; launch from the Narrows Ramp or South Shore access and work the shallow flats along the Coldwater River basin for bass and panfish. Waters range from tea-stain near the dam to clearer pockets in upper coves, offering multiple setups along weed edges and timber. Optimal months are March through May and September through November. Plan a 3- to 5-hour trip and return before midday heat; lodging options include apartments in Coldwater and surrounding towns to extend a stopover, enabling more full days on the water. Along the shoreline you’ll notice landmarks such as marsh pockets and boat docks that ease navigation for first-time visitors, ideal for exploring.

At Sardis Reservoir, public access points feed two marinas and a network of coves with timber and open flats; angling targets include largemouth bass, white bass, and crappie. Months of interest: spring and fall. Water depth varies from shallow pockets to deeper channels, supporting mixed tactics. Towns such as Batesville and Oxford offer apartments and weekend rentals; local landmarks include the Sardis Wildlife Management Area and a river bluff that marks the main inlet. A full-day plan includes picnicking and a short shoreline walk between returns to the ramp.

Enid Reservoir presents smoother water with mixed bottom structure and several public ramps; angling targets include bass and crappie. The months from late winter to early summer produce solid action as water warms. Settings include campgrounds, rustic cabins, and lakeside lodges; landscapes feature sandy banks and hardwood banks along the shores. Explore with a 6- to 8-hour trip and return for possible overnight stays in towns with apartments. Landmarks along the route include a forested ridge and a small beach area that remains popular in summer months.

Grenada Reservoir offers long, shallow flats and deeper channels, supporting a wide range of angling tactics; common species include largemouth bass and crappie. Peak months are spring and fall, with favorable wind angles and calmer evenings. Facilities include several marinas and campgrounds; lodging options include apartments in Grenada and nearby towns. Local landmarks such as the Grenada Dam overlook and a public park provide scenic reference points for day trips and sunset returns.

Reelfoot Lake in northwest Tennessee is a distinctive, shallow natural body framed by cypress stands; morning and evening sessions around silt flats yield quality catches for bass and crappie. Months with reliable action span spring through early summer and again in fall; park service lands include boat ramps, boardwalks, and observation platforms. Settings emphasize wildlife watching in addition to angling; exploring the area by boat makes it possible to meet waterfowl landmarks and navigate quiet bays.

Pickwick Reservoir on the Tennessee River hosts long points, wide bays, and deep channels that concentrate bass and striped bass along seasonal migration routes; several public ramps and guest docks support day trips and longer stays. Months with consistent action run from spring into fall, with calmer evenings favorable for sightseeing and light angling. Lodging options include apartments in nearby towns and riverside lodges; landmarks along the shoreline guide navigation, and a full day trip can combine a couple of targeted routes.

Barnett Reservoir, a large urban water body east of Jackson, provides multiple ramps, a public marina, and campground areas; the setting supports quick trips or extended weekend exploration. Angling action is year-round, with peak evenings in warmer months and autumn colors along the water; lodging options include apartments in nearby towns; the policy on launches and camping is posted at each access point, making planning straightforward. источник Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.

Boat access and launch options at Poplar Tree Lake

Recommendation: Use the Riverside Drive ramp as your primary entry; it offers a paved launch and a trailer-friendly lot with about 24 spaces, making it the most reliable start for a day on the water with friends. Daily permits are sold at the on-site kiosk, typically around 5–7 USD, and April activity remains steady as locals explore what the lake has to offer. If you crave a quick snack on the drive, a cookie from a nearby shop is a nice treat to enjoy here before you head out.

Alternative options include the West Side Access on the lake’s west shore, a smaller ramp with roughly 8–12 parking spots. It suits kayaks and light craft best and operates during daylight hours. Those seeking quieter water may browse this area, however wait times can increase on weekends. For a full-service experience, a third-party marina nearby provides guest passes through an affiliate and can arrange guided launches if needed.

Accessibility and practical tips: The main ramp provides a paved approach and accessible parking; some docks at the marina offer ADA-friendly entry. Whether you’re planning a short morning trip or a full day out, check the latest notices from the town office or the affiliate’s site before you go. If you’re coming from Chattanooga or a nearby town, map a route that passes farms and open natural corridors along the shoreline, then pause at measured viewpoints for signature photo moments. Here, what matters is reliability and ease of use, with places to browse information and plan stops along the line of access points.

источник: местные парк службa и третьи лица, официально поддерживающие доступ к водной зоне; April обновления часто отражают сезонные изменения и работу партнерских операторов.

Poplar Tree Lake: prime fishing targets and tactics

Begin with a decisive move: use a 3/16–1/4 oz football jig along weedlines in 6–12 ft, dragging slowly and pausing to probe brush and rock pockets. If the bite stalls, switch to a drop-shot rig with a 6–8 inch leader near suspended fish to maximize strikes.

• Targets: largemouth bass, spotted bass, black crappie, white crappie, channel catfish, bluegill. These species congregate around herbaceous beds, brush, docks and rocky points in water depths typically 6–14 ft. Most action happens where structure concentrates; these zones are common across Tiptonville and Shelby counties.
• Approaches: jig-and-pause on grass edges; drop-shot for suspended fish; small swimbaits and shallow-diving crankbaits around ledges. Colors such as shad, green pumpkin, and bluegill patterns cover a variety of conditions; aggregated data from shops and guides confirm their effectiveness.
• Depth & structure: start 6–12 ft along weedlines and points; transition to 12–18 ft on deeper ledges or around channel junctions when fronts move in. If water is stained, favor darker colors and slower retrieves; in clear water, opt for brighter hues. Their bite windows can shift quickly with weather–stay ready to adapt.
• Seasonal timing: mornings and late afternoons offer the most consistent action; after fronts, fish tend to hold deeper near cover. Explore open-water edges and current seams to locate clustered targets.
• Gear, planning & budget: bring a mix of jigs, drop-shots, swimbaits, and shallow-running cranks. A prequalified plan with a modest budget can cover a boat or guided session; mortgage considerations are separate, but open shops and shared trips help manage restocking and costs. Your rest of the day can include quick stops at local shops to refresh gear and tackle tracking for future trips.
• Local intel & heritage: Tiptonville shops and Shelby County anglers provide aggregated notes on bite windows and productive zones; Watts legend and other veterans emphasize open-water contours and current seams. These insights reflect the heritage of the community and help you find patterns across water types. источник

Seasonal best fishing windows and weather tips for Memphis-area lakes

Check forecasts three days out, call your partner to lock prequalified plans, and plan dawn sessions on waters where median temperatures are rising. Found hotspots along the mississippi corridor between winchester and watts attract anglers seeking relaxing days with ample action. These premier windows are designed to help planning and maximize your results.

City dwellers and towns across the region benefit from avoiding cookie-cutter itineraries; planning around fronts, wind, and sun exposure yields more consistent outcomes on waters that feed into the mississippi. Use these season-by-season windows to guide planning and check the latest conditions before you head out.

1. Spring window (March–May)
   • Temperature and timing: water warms from roughly 58–60 F early spring to 68–70 F by late May. The median daytime high sits around 68–72 F during peak spring surface activity. Prime targets are largemouth along weed lines and creek mouths in 3–6 ft. Early morning (about 6–9 a.m.) and late afternoon (4–7 p.m.) are prime; light winds under 10 mph improve your ability to position baits.
   • Techniques and gear: use spinnerbaits, shallow square-bill cranks, and soft plastics on 8–12 lb test line; expect catches in the 1.5–4 pounds range, with occasional 5+ pounds in winchester and watts zones.
   • Planning notes: plan around fronts; check forecasts; water clarity improves after rain. Boats should carry safety gear if gusts exceed 15 mph from the south and southwest. Consider early-season pre-spawn patterns along inlets and points.
2. Summer window (June–August)
   • Temperature and timing: surface temps climb to 78–85 F; mid-day slows angling; focus on dawn (6–9 a.m.) and post-sunset (7–9 p.m.) windows. Depth: 6–12 ft along mixed vegetation or weed edges near drop-offs; look for shade lines and current on major creeks.
   • Techniques: slow-rolled spinnerbaits, finesse plastics, jigs around structure; keep line strength at 12–20 lb; pounds of catch per trip commonly 3–6 pounds for limit-quality fish; occasional 7+ pounds trophy encounters aren’t unusual in the region.
   • Planning notes: hydrate, protect from heat; check wind forecasts (15 mph or less preferred) and avoid dangerous conditions on open water. Pre-warmed water is helpful for guiding bait choice.
3. Autumn window (September–November)
   • Temperature and timing: water cools into the 60s F by early fall; peak angling often occurs during post-frontal days and clear mornings; prime windows are post-dawn (7–10 a.m.) and late afternoon (4–6 p.m.).
   • Techniques: switch to medium-diving cranks and swimbaits; target ledges, creek-channel bends, and main river bends; fish tend to school around structure for predictable action. Typical catches range 2–5 pounds; large individuals more frequently found along steeper banks around winchester and watts corridors.
   • Planning notes: the mississippi basin scenery becomes picturesque; watch for rising winds from the north; check river conditions and water level changes after rainfall. Always carry a plan B if fronts move in.
4. Winter window (December–February)
   • Temperature and timing: water temps drop into the 40s–50s F; angling slows; target warmer pockets near sunlit banks or creek mouths; prime opportunities occur on mild sunny days with a light south breeze; keep sessions short and use safety checks for cold exposure.
   • Techniques: use slower presentations with deep-water jigs or tube baits; prefer deeper weedlines and submerged structure; expect fewer bites, but occasionally you will find pockets that hold fish well, including 1.5–3 pounds on consistent trips.
   • Planning notes: check the forecast for cold fronts; anticipate fronts bringing pressure changes that can trigger bites for short windows; carry extra layers and hot drinks, and plan shorter trips with flexible start times.

Nearby lakes: marinas, safety gear, and do-not-miss facilities

Start with the closest marina cluster located in the middle-Tennessee river corridor, where Shelby citys towns Germantown, Bartlett, and Collierville anchor the launches. Here youll find surface conditions friendly for a kayak and small craft, plus a haven that honors local heritage along the shoreline. The quaint, small-town vibe makes safety briefings easier and keeps adventures straightforward for first-timers.

Safety gear is non-technical and straightforward to assemble: every paddler wears a USCG-approved life jacket; carry a throw bag, a whistle on a lanyard, a compact flashlight, and a basic first-aid kit. Bring a dry bag for valuables, a spare paddle, and a charged phone in a waterproof case. A quick pre-launch check is required on busy days.

Do-not-miss facilities include well-lit ramps, ADA-accessible launches, shaded picnic areas, clean restrooms, and water-fill stations. Look for marina stores with essential safety gear, safe parking, and nearby shaded spots for a quick rest after night adventures or cycling detours along the surface.

Aggregated tips help you stay efficient: check the local process for launch hours and register tims if a marina requires it; plan to arrive early, or you may miss the best light. This non-technical checklist makes it easy to meet the essentials quickly and build confidence; if river levels rise, know your return plan and adjust accordingly.

If you want a longer escape, Chattanooga is a practical add-on for a weekend, about a couple of hours to drive. From the river city area you can loop through quaint towns and open-air markets, then return here for more paddling. The route suits cycling enthusiasts too, with safe paths along the shore and plenty of spots to launch after exploring the heritage-rich coast.

Scenic overlooks and shoreline viewpoints around these lakes

Begin at Parsons Point, Shelby County, at first light; this overlook becomes your anchor for a morning that reveals nature in quiet detail. The air is fresh, theres ample space along the shoreline, and the water glints as distant birds call and the waters shimmer upon the slow wake of dawn.

From that start, head right along the shore toward the Black Bayou overlook, where a sturdy deck provides a wider look across broad waters. The median trail keeps you along the edge, and the view beyond the treeline and over the horizon offers a better sense of scale, with a closer look upon the shore.

Among the northern shoreline options, a wooden boardwalk hugs the edge; this hikes route provides a stable call to morning exploration. For a dream moment, turn to a quiet spot where marsh grasses sway and the legend of this place feels near.

Nearby vantage points across other water bodies offer easy access and a chance for families with apartments along the shore to join in a quick sunrise circuit. Bring compact optics to compare color changes as the sun climbs; the morning light helps you accept the subtle shifts along nearly every bend of the shoreline.

Aggregated tips from local guides, including redfincomafba references, outline a simple process: arrive early, check the median temps, and stay on designated paths. Their advice highlights moments when the light becomes softer and the waters reveal more detail, turning a routine walk into an adventure and a dream for observers.