Next AvailableJun 30

Book with Bruce Thornton

Reel Crappie Guides

Identity Verified

Gore Springs MS

Bruce Thornton, Guide at Reel Crappie Guides

Identity Verified

If you're ready to experience some of the best Crappie and Catfish fishing in Mississippi, join Guide Bruce Thornton on the legendary waters of Grenada Lake, Enid Lake, and Sardis Lake. These North Mississippi flood control reservoirs are world-renowned for producing giant Crappie and steady Catfish action all year long—and Bruce knows every inch of them.

Born and raised in Mississippi, Bruce isn’t just another guide. He grew up fishing these lakes and has spent decades learning their structure, patterns, and seasonal shifts. Whether it’s spider rigging in the spring, long-lining in the summer, or Livescoping when the fish are hugging the bottom, he has the tools and know-how to help you land slabs and fill your cooler.

Bruce runs his trips aboard a 22’ Ranger, powered by a strong Mercury 250HP motor that pushes up to 40 mph. The boat comfortably fits up to four anglers, making it perfect for a family trip, a couple of friends, or even a solo angler looking for serious results. It’s fully equipped with all the rods, reels, tackle, and bait you'll need for the day. Just show up with your Mississippi fishing license and your favorite snacks—we’ll take care of the rest.

Techniques vary based on the time of year, but Bruce specializes in spider rigging, pulling crankbaits, long-lining jigs, wading, and using state-of-the-art Livescope sonar. Not sure what those are? Don’t worry. He’ll walk you through everything with patience, clarity, and plenty of humor along the way.

What really sets Bruce apart is his attitude. He’s a hardworking, down-to-earth guide who truly wants you to enjoy your day on the water. Whether you’re chasing a personal best Crappie or just looking for a laid-back day catching fish and learning the local ways, Bruce makes it easy, fun, and memorable.

If you’ve been thinking about fishing Mississippi’s top lakes, there’s no better way than with a local who’s lived it. With Guide Bruce Thornton, you’re not just booking a fishing trip—you’re getting a full Southern fishing experience from someone who loves what he does.

Fishing licenses are required and must be obtained before the trip. Snacks not included. All equipment and bait are provided.

Upcoming Availability

June 2025

July 2025

Expertise & Attributes

fishing

Freshwater Fishing

Good with Families

Good with Kids

Good with New Anglers

Fishing Techniques

Jigging

What's Included

Keep your Catch

This guide offers trips that you are able to take home your catch.

Good to Knows

Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.

Nature / Wildlife Views

This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.

Cancellation Policy

When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.

What's Included

Keep your Catch

This guide offers trips that you are able to take home your catch.

Good to Knows

Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.

Nature / Wildlife Views

This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.

Cancellation Policy

When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.

Trips Available with Reel Crappie Guides

Fishing

Starting At $550

Mississippi Crappie Fishing Trip

Fishing Area: Mississippi

Fishing: Lake

Fishing Boat:

Reel Crappie Guides • 22' Ranger Boats • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description:

This 6-hour Crappie fishing trip is designed for up to 4 guests and takes place on one of Mississippi’s top-producing lakes. You’ll be targeting slab Crappie using proven methods like spider rigging, long-lining, and Livescope—based on season and conditions. All rods, reels, and bait are included, so you can focus on the action without worrying about gear. Your guide is local to the region and brings deep knowledge of Grenada, Sardis, and Enid Lake. Snacks are not provided, so feel free to bring your own cooler with food and drinks. Expect hands-on instruction, helpful tips, and plenty of Crappie in the cooler by the end of the trip.

Deposits are non-refundable (Trips & Rates Page).

Fishing

Starting At $550

Guided Crappie Fishing Trip in Mississippi for Beginners

Fishing Area: Mississippi

Fishing: Lake

Fishing Boat:

Reel Crappie Guides • 22' Ranger Boats • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description:

This beginner-friendly guided hunt is perfect for up to 4 guests and takes place on private land in Mississippi, where your guide ensures a safe and relaxed introduction to hunting. You'll target species like whitetail deer or turkey, depending on the season, using simple methods such as box blinds and ground setups suited for new hunters. All basic gear, including firearms and safety equipment, can be provided, and your guide will walk you through each step—from sighting in to tracking and field dressing. No prior experience is required, and you'll receive patient, one-on-one instruction throughout the trip. Youth hunters and first-timers are encouraged, and this experience is ideal for families or small groups looking to learn together. Deposits are non-refundable (Trips & Rates Page).

Vehicle

Reel Crappie Guides

Boat Type:

Boat Guest Capacity:

Boat Length:

22 ft

Manufacturer Name:

Ranger Boats

Model Year:

2007

Engine Manufacturer Name:

Mercury Marine

# of Engines:

Horsepower Per Engine:

250

Maximum Cruising Speed:

Features: Bait Tank Fish Finder GPS

Fish comfortably aboard a 22’ Ranger powered by a 250HP Mercury engine, reaching speeds up to 40 mph. This stable and spacious boat seats up to 4 guests and is fully equipped for serious Crappie and Catfish fishing with quality gear, electronics, and plenty of room to move.