Catahoula Lake
General data
- Name: Catahoula Lake
- Water system: Atchafalaya River
- Water type: Natural lake
- Progression: Old River -> Black River (Red River tributary) -> Red River of the South -> Atchafalaya River -> Gulf of Mexico -> Atlantic Ocean -> Planet Earth
- Climates: Subtropical, Temperate, Subtropical
- Continents: North America, North America
- Countries: United States of America, United States of America
Catahoula Lake is a large freshwater lake located in LaSalle Parish and Rapides Parish of central Louisiana, United States. Catahoula Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in the state covering just over 120 km2. Catahoula is a shallow, and poorly drained wetland supported by the Little River and several creeks. It was drained by the Old River, French Fork and a number of bayous until several flood control projects changed the lake's drainage characteristics. It is known as the largest moist soil unit in North America and supports a variety of waterfowl including geese, duck, and wading birds and is a recreational area for hunting, fishing, hiking, sight seeing, and bird watching. Access to the lake is limited on the western shores due to private and corporate fencing.