The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) Fisheries Bureau wants to remind boaters to be cautious when loading and unloading boats at boat ramps due to low water conditions at some MDWFP State Lakes. Low water levels are a result of the ongoing drought in the state.

The boat ramp at Calling Panther Lake in Copiah County has been closed to perform maintenance while the water is low. The boat ramp at Lake Claude Bennett in Jasper County closed earlier this year, and both will reopen once water levels return to normal.   

Fishing is still allowed at MDWFP State Lakes while boat ramps are closed. A state lake permit and a Mississippi fishing license are required unless exempt under state law.    

Calling Panther Lake is not only a state fishing lake but a wildlife management area. Hunting opportunities are limited to draw deer and turkey hunts and squirrel hunting in February with shotguns only.