What You'll Find at North Sherwood Forest

BREC's North Sherwood Forest Community Park is a 300-acre recreation area in north Baton Rouge that includes two fishing ponds stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. The park sits on Greenwell Springs Road and offers bank access to both ponds, making it accessible to anglers of all skill levels. The water is shallow enough in most areas that you can wade, though the banks are firm enough for standing room without waders.

The park is managed by Baton Rouge Recreation and Park Commission (BREC), the city's parks department. It operates year-round during daylight hours, and fishing is permitted without a separate fee beyond park entry. The ponds are regularly stocked, so you have a reasonable chance of catching fish on any given day, especially if you fish early morning or late afternoon when bass are most active.

Key Takeaways

  • North Sherwood Forest has two stocked ponds with largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish accessible from the bank without a boat.
  • You need a valid Louisiana fishing license to fish here, and the park is open during daylight hours year-round.
  • Spring and fall offer the most consistent bass activity, while summer catfish bite well in the evening and at night.
  • The park has parking, restrooms, and picnic areas, making it a full-day destination rather than a quick stop.
  • No boats are permitted on the ponds, so this is strictly bank fishing.

Seasons and What Bites When

Largemouth bass fishing is strongest in spring (March through May) and fall (September through November), when water temperatures sit in the 60s and 70s. During these windows, bass move into shallow water to feed, and you can catch them on topwater lures, soft plastics, and crankbaits thrown from the bank. Early morning and late afternoon are your best times; midday fishing is slower.

Summer (June through August) is tougher for bass because they move deeper and become less active in the heat. However, catfish bite well in the evening and at night during summer months. Bluegill spawn in late spring and early summer, so May and June can be excellent for panfish on small jigs, crickets, or live minnows. Winter fishing (December through February) is unpredictable; bass slow down considerably, and you may have better luck with catfish on cut bait or chicken liver.

What Gear and Bait to Bring

For bass, a medium-power spinning rod with 8- to 10-pound monofilament or braided line works well. Bring a selection of soft plastics (4- to 6-inch worms and crawfish imitations), topwater plugs, and small crankbaits. If you prefer live bait, shiners and shad are effective, though you may need to catch them elsewhere or purchase them from a local tackle shop.

For catfish, a heavier rod (medium-heavy power) with 12- to 20-pound line is better suited to the fight. Cut bait (mullet, shad, or mackerel), chicken liver, and prepared stink baits all work. Bluegill respond to small jigs (1/16 to 1/8 ounce), crickets, small minnows, and bread balls. Bring a cooler with ice if you plan to keep fish; the park has no fish-cleaning station.

Regulations and Licensing

Louisiana requires all anglers 16 and older to hold a valid fishing license. You can purchase a resident or non-resident license online through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) website, by phone, or at authorized retailers. Licenses are available as daily, 3-day, or annual options. Bring your license with you; park rangers or LDWF officers may check.

Bag and size limits vary by species. Largemouth bass have a 12-inch minimum length and a daily bag limit of 8 fish. Catfish have no minimum size and a 25-fish daily limit. Bluegill and other sunfish have no size limit and a 50-fish daily limit. These regulations can change, so check the LDWF website before you go. No trotlines, nets, or traps are permitted in the ponds.

Parking, Facilities, and Access

North Sherwood Forest has a large parking area near the main entrance on Greenwell Springs Road. The park is open from sunrise to sunset. Restrooms are available, and there are picnic tables and grills scattered throughout the grounds, making it a good spot to spend a full day. The ponds are accessible from multiple points along the bank, and the terrain is relatively flat and easy to walk.

There is no boat ramp or boat launch; the ponds are closed to motorized and non-motorized vessels. This keeps the water calm and makes it safer for bank anglers. Pets are allowed in the park but must be leashed. The park can get busy on weekends, especially in spring, so arriving early gives you better access to the best fishing spots.

How to Get There

North Sherwood Forest is located at 10220 Greenwell Springs Road in Baton Rouge, about 10 miles north of downtown. From Interstate 12, take the Greenwell Springs Road exit and head north; the park entrance is on your right. GPS coordinates are approximately 30.35°N, 91.17°W. Parking is free, and there is no entry fee to fish.

The drive from downtown Baton Rouge takes roughly 20 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. If you are coming from the south side of the city, allow extra time during rush hours. The park is well-marked from the main road, and the entrance is easy to spot once you turn onto Greenwell Springs Road heading north.

Nearby Fishing Options

If you want to explore other water in the Baton Rouge area, the Mississippi River offers saltwater and freshwater species depending on the season and location. Amite River, about 30 minutes south, holds bass, catfish, and some saltwater species near its mouth. Several private ponds and lakes in East Baton Rouge Parish also offer day-use fishing for a small fee.

BREC manages other parks with fishing opportunities as well, so check their website for alternatives if North Sherwood Forest is crowded. Comite River and Blackwater Bayou are also within an hour's drive and offer different habitat and species mix than the ponds at North Sherwood Forest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to fish at North Sherwood Forest?

Yes. Louisiana law requires all anglers 16 and older to hold a valid fishing license. You can purchase one online through the LDWF website, by phone, or at tackle shops and sporting goods retailers. Daily, 3-day, and annual licenses are available for both residents and non-residents.

Can I use a boat on the ponds?

No. Both ponds are closed to all boats, including kayaks and canoes. Fishing is from the bank only. This restriction keeps the water calm and makes it safer for anglers standing on shore.

What is the best time of year to fish here?

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are most consistent for largemouth bass. Summer is slower for bass but good for catfish in the evening. Winter fishing is unpredictable, though catfish may still bite on cut bait.

Are there fish-cleaning facilities at the park?

No. The park has no fish-cleaning station. If you plan to keep your catch, bring a cooler with ice and clean your fish at home or at your accommodation.

How crowded does the park get?

Weekends in spring and fall can be busy, especially in the morning. Weekday fishing is usually quieter. Arriving at sunrise gives you the best chance of finding a good spot and catching active fish before midday heat sets in.