What Iatt Lake Offers

Iatt Lake is a small impoundment in central Grant Parish that holds largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish in shallow, weedy water. The lake runs roughly 40 to 50 acres depending on water level and sits in the transition zone between the Cane River drainage and the rolling pine country of central Louisiana. It is not a destination lake — most anglers fish it as a local spot or as a secondary option when the larger reservoirs in the region are crowded or in poor condition.

The water is typically stained to murky, with heavy aquatic vegetation along the shoreline and scattered throughout the shallows. That vegetation makes it a good bass lake in spring and early summer, when fish move shallow to spawn and feed. Bluegill and catfish are present year-round and respond well to simple live-bait techniques. The lake has no boat launch, which keeps pressure light but also means access is limited to wade fishing, kayaks, or small jon boats you can hand-launch from the bank.

Key Takeaways

  • Iatt Lake holds largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish in shallow, weedy water best fished in spring and early summer.
  • There is no developed boat launch, so you will need to wade, kayak, or hand-launch a small boat from the bank.
  • The lake sits on private land with limited public access; confirm permission before fishing and respect posted boundaries.
  • Stained water and heavy vegetation mean dark-colored lures and live bait work better than clear-water presentations.

Access and Permission

Iatt Lake sits on private property, and access is not may provide. Before you fish, contact the landowner or the Grant Parish Sheriff's Office to confirm current conditions and permission. Local tackle shops in Colfax can often point you toward the right person or tell you whether the lake is open to public fishing that season.

If you do gain access, the best entry point is from the southern bank, where a narrow dirt road leads close to the water. The road is rough and may be impassable after heavy rain. Park well away from the water and walk in to avoid getting stuck. There is no developed parking area, so leave room for other vehicles and do not block the road.

Bass Fishing in Spring and Early Summer

Largemouth bass in Iatt Lake respond best from March through June, when water temperatures climb and fish move into the shallows to feed and spawn. Focus on the thickest vegetation — the edges of lily pads, fallen timber, and dense cattail stands. Fish early in the morning and late in the afternoon; midday fishing is slow.

Dark-colored soft plastics — black, dark green, or brown — work better than bright colors in the stained water. Spinnerbaits in black or dark chartreuse are also effective, especially around submerged brush. Work your lure slowly and deliberately; bass in shallow, weedy water often strike out of reaction rather than hunger, so a steady retrieve with occasional pauses will draw more strikes than a fast one.

Topwater lures can produce explosive strikes in early morning, particularly around open pockets in the vegetation. A small popper or walking bait fished over shallow flats will draw strikes from feeding fish. Be ready for a hard hit and keep your rod tip up to set the hook firmly in the weeds.

Bluegill and Catfish Year-Round

Bluegill are abundant in Iatt Lake and bite consistently throughout the year. Fish live crickets, small shiners, or earthworms under a bobber in water 3 to 6 feet deep, particularly around the deeper edges of weed beds and near any submerged structure. Early morning and late afternoon are most productive, but bluegill will bite all day if you are patient.

Catfish — mostly channel cats with occasional blues — are active from late spring through fall. Fish cut shad, chicken liver, or stink bait on the bottom in deeper holes, particularly near the dam or the deepest parts of the lake. Catfish bite best at night or in low-light conditions. Bring a headlamp and plan to fish from dusk until midnight for the most consistent action.

Seasonal Patterns and Water Conditions

Spring (March to May) is the most productive season. Water temperatures climb into the 60s and 70s, bass move shallow, and bluegill spawn in the shallows. The lake is usually at or near full pool.

Summer (June to August) can be slow during the heat of the day, but early morning and evening fishing remains good. Water levels may drop slightly as the season progresses. Catfish bite better in summer than any other season.

Fall (September to November) sees a brief resurgence in bass activity as water cools. Bluegill remain active. Water levels typically drop as the dry season approaches.

Winter (December to February) is slow for bass but bluegill and catfish continue to bite. The lake is usually at its lowest level. Dress warmly and fish deeper water.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Iatt Lake has no facilities — no restrooms, no water, no shade structures. Bring everything you need: drinking water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit. The mosquitoes can be intense in summer and fall, particularly in the early morning and at dusk.

Wear wading boots or old sneakers if you plan to wade; the bottom is soft and muddy in places, and the vegetation can hide submerged debris. Bring a net if you are fishing for catfish at night — a headlamp will help you land fish in the dark.

Cell service is spotty in the area. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. The nearest medical facility is in Colfax, about 15 minutes away by car.

Nearby Alternatives in Grant Parish

If Iatt Lake is not open or conditions are poor, Cane River Creeks and smaller impoundments throughout Grant Parish offer similar fishing. Kisatchie National Forest to the south has several small lakes and streams that hold bass and bluegill. The Cane River itself, particularly near Cloutierville, holds catfish and occasional bass in deeper pools.

Larger reservoirs like Saline Lake (in Natchitoches Parish, about 30 minutes north) and Caney Lake (in Morehouse Parish, about 45 minutes east) offer more developed facilities and more consistent fishing if you are willing to travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Louisiana fishing license to fish Iatt Lake?

Yes. Louisiana requires a fishing license for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a license online through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website or at most tackle shops and sporting goods stores. A three-day license is available if you do not want a full-year license.

What is the best time of day to fish Iatt Lake?

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and late afternoon through dusk are most productive for bass and bluegill. Catfish bite best at night. Midday fishing is generally slow, particularly in summer.

Can I launch a motorboat on Iatt Lake?

There is no developed boat launch, and the lake is small enough that a motorboat is not practical. Kayaks, canoes, and small jon boats hand-launched from the bank work well. Check with the landowner about any restrictions on boat type or size before you fish.

What should I do if I hook into a large catfish at night?

Keep your rod tip up and let the fish run if it wants to. Catfish are strong but not as acrobatic as bass. Reel steadily and do not horse the fish — give it line if it pulls hard. A net makes landing easier in the dark. If the fish wraps around vegetation, keep tension on the line and work it free slowly rather than yanking.

Is there camping near Iatt Lake?

There is no developed campground at the lake itself. Kisatchie National Forest has several small campgrounds within 20 to 30 minutes. Colfax has a few motels and RV parks if you prefer to stay in town and drive to the lake each day.