Louisiana Anglers: New Trophy Bass Rules at Bussey Brake Reservoir

Truth be told, many Louisiana anglers had never heard of Bussey Brake Reservoir until February 2022, when Major League Fishing began it's first championship round of the 2022 season.

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It was during this tournament on February 10, 2022, that Alabama professional fisherman, Randy Howell, set Major League Fishing's all-time record for the biggest bass caught in circuit history.

The behemoth that Howell latched onto was a massive 12 pound, 14 ounce giant, which was immediately released back into the lake after having it weighed.

Of course, once the world learned of this incredible 2,200-acre lake located only seven miles northwest of Bastrop, the proverbial cat was out of the bag.

Anglers worldwide have since flocked to Morehouse Parish in pursuit of another of these jolly green giants and now, Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries is working to assure this fishery will continue commanding so much attention.

On Saturday, March 8, LDWF announced on Facebook its notice of the intent to modify black bass regulations at Bussey Brake Reservoir.

Included in the notice of intent are the following proposals:

• Increase max length limit from 16 to 18 inches
• Remove allowance of one bass over the max length
• Allow temporary retention of bass 22 inches+ for weighing (must be in an aerated live well & weighed on a personal or LDWF-provided certified scale)
• Daily creel limit remains at 5 bass per day

Speaking on behalf of the proposed black bass changes at Bussey Brake, LDWF Secretary Madison Shehan had this to say:

"Protecting and prolonging trophy bass fishing opportunities at Bussey Brake Reservoir is a top priority, creating the maximum opportunity for anglers to catch a new state record or personal best bass"

You can read the full Notice of Intent HERE.

Public comments on the notice of intent will be taken until June 5, 2025 and can be emailed to Ryan Daniel at rdaniel@wlf.la.gov