• Black Bayou Lake is now part of the Black Lake National Wildlife Refuge ( www.fws.gov/northlouisiana/blackbayoulake/), and is located about five miles north of Monroe on Highway 165.
There is only one ramp on the 1,700 acre lake, and $2 launch applies. Boats are limited to no greater than 50 horsepower.
If you fish this lake, make sure you check out all the rules and regulations.
The lake is part of an unbelievable nature area with fishing piers, nature trails and boardwalks, a nature center and all kinds of other outdoor activities, including canoe rentals.
In other words, it’s a fun place for the whole family.
• Cheniere (pronounced “shin-ee”) is the largest lake in Ouachita parish at 3,600 acres. It is operated by the Ouachita Parish Police Jury, and has several landings.
The main landing and park is at Area 1 located just off of the Well Road Exit on I-20 in West Monroe.
Cheniere is full of huge cypress trees and tall tupelo gum trees. In some areas, the timber is so thick it is difficult to navigate, and you better pay attention if you want to find your way back to the landing from which you left.
There are also lots of stumps and only one open area, located on the southern end off Cheniere Dam Road. There is a large ramp and parking area there.
The lake averages about 5 feet deep and has one deep lake in the middle of it, Puckett Lake. That area is visible on the map.