Bruce Thornton

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.

EPSG:4269

Don't miss out on this summertime special!


Lock In Your Summer Fishing Adventure Today!

10 big fish caught while fishing in Gore Springs

Five big fish caught while fishing at Gore Springs

5 great fish caught while fishing at Gore Springs

6 white crappie fish caught in Gore Springs

3 big fish caught during fishing trip at Gore Springs

Two bluegill and white crappie fish in MS

A white crappie fish caught in Gore Springs

Guided Crappie Fishing Trips on Mississippi’s Top Lakes

Ready to reel in slab Crappie and big Catfish with a local expert? Book your unforgettable family fishing adventure today with Reel Crappie Guides in Mississippi—where every charter boat trip is packed with action, laughs, and memories!

Looking to experience the best Crappie and Catfish fishing in Mississippi? Reel Crappie Guides offers family-friendly fishing trips on some of the state’s top lakes, including Grenada, Sardis, and Enid. Whether you're a first-time angler or a seasoned fisherman, you’ll enjoy a hands-on day of action using proven techniques like spider rigging, Livescope, and crankbait trolling. All gear and bait are provided, so you can focus on making memories and reeling in fish. These trips are ideal for families, groups, or anyone looking to relax and enjoy productive time on the water. At the helm is Captain Bruce Thornton, a Mississippi native with years of guiding experience and deep knowledge of the region’s lakes and seasonal fish behavior. He knows where the slabs are biting and how to keep everyone—from kids to serious anglers—engaged and catching. With a comfortable boat, top-tier equipment, and a friendly, patient approach, Captain Bruce makes every trip smooth and enjoyable. Book your trip today and let Reel Crappie Guides show you why Mississippi is one of the best places in the country to catch Crappie and Catfish!

Meet Your Expert Mississippi Fishing Guide at Reel Crappie Guides

Fishing License

Mississippi Fishing License

Rookie Reelers

Expert-Guided Crappie Fishing on Mississippi Lakes

Slab Seekers

Top-Rated Mississippi Crappie Fishing on Lakes

Skilled Slabs

Pro Crappie Fishing on Mississippi's Best Lakes

Scenic Slabs

Mississippi Lake Crappie Charter: Reel Crappie Guides

Crappie Fishing

Crappie Fishing Trips on Grenada Lake

Lake Slabs

Mississippi's Premier Family Crappie Fishing Trip

Things To Do

Things To Do in Mississippi

Common Questions: What fish can I catch on a Mississippi fishing charter?With Reel Crappie Guides, you’ll primarily target Crappie and Catfish, two of the most popular freshwater species in Mississippi. These lakes are known for producing trophy-size slabs and steady catfish bites year-round. When is the best time to fish for Crappie in Mississippi?The spring and fall are peak Crappie seasons, especially during the spawn when fish move into shallows. However, Captain Bruce Thornton runs productive trips year-round, adjusting tactics based on seasonal patterns. Do I need a fishing license to join a guided trip in Mississippi?Yes, all guests over the age of 16 must obtain a valid Mississippi fishing license before the trip. You can easily purchase one online through the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. Are fishing charters kid-friendly?Absolutely. Reel Crappie Guides specializes in family-friendly trips. Captain Bruce is known for his patience, fun attitude, and ability to keep younger anglers engaged and catching fish. What’s included in the trip with Reel Crappie Guides?All rods, reels, tackle, and bait are included. Just bring your license, snacks, drinks, and weather-appropriate clothing. Captain Bruce handles the rest so you can focus on fishing. How long are the fishing trips?Reel Crappie Guides offers 6-hour Crappie and Catfish trips, giving you plenty of time to learn techniques like spider rigging, Livescoping, or trolling crankbaits. Where do the fishing trips take place?Trips run on Grenada Lake, Sardis Lake, and Enid Lake—three of the best Crappie fishing lakes in the country. Captain Bruce knows every contour and hot spot on these waters. Can beginners join a guided trip?Definitely. Captain Bruce welcomes beginners, families, and seasoned anglers alike. He’ll walk you through every step, from tying on jigs to landing your first slab. What happens if the weather is bad?If weather conditions are unsafe, Captain Bruce will reschedule your trip at no extra charge. Safety always comes first, and you’ll be notified in advance if conditions look questionable. Are deposits refundable if I cancel my trip?Booking deposits are non-refundable, as noted on the Trips &amp; Rates page. However, Captain Bruce will work with you to reschedule if needed due to weather or emergencies.

Authors

Navigate