Fishing is one of Oklahoma’s most celebrated pasttimes. In fact, there are so many opportunities for great fishing around Oklahoma City that it could fill your entire vacation.
We know you have more to do and see than fish, though. That’s why we’ve put together this quick reference guide, so you have everything you need at your fingertips.
Need to know where the best spots are? Interested in the type of fish you can catch? We’ve got you covered.
Species of Fish in Oklahoma
Oklahoma is home to fifteen species of fish. Of course, what you’ll be able to catch depends mostly on the lake or river you’re fishing in, but in general, there’s plenty of opportunity for variety.
Here are the fifteen species you can find throughout our lakes and rivers here in Oklahoma.
- Smallmouth Bass
- Largemouth Bass
- Hybrid Striped Bass
- Sand Bass
- Kentucky Bass
- White Crappie
- Black Crappie
- Blue Catfish
- Channel Catfish
- Redear Sunfish
- Perch
- Rainbow Trout
- Bluegill
- Walleye
- Paddlefish
What’s the best time to go fishing?
With over 70 rivers and lakes in the state and over one million surface acres of water, there are many options to choose from. Whether you’re coming in summer or winter months, you can find great fishing throughout the state.
May through September tend to be the most popular months for fishing, but with temps rising to between 80-100 degrees F, be sure to dress cool and take your sunscreen.
Spring is another great time to be on one of our many lakes or rivers. In April, the azaleas and redbuds begin to bloom. It peppers the lakesides with stunning, picturesque colors you’ll want to capture as you throw a line in the water.
In the winter, we experience pretty mild weather, with little snowfall, so it’s also a pretty great time to hit the water.
Where Should I Fish?
We have more water and shoreline that the Atlantic and Gulf coasts combined. What does that mean? You get your pick of some of the best fishing spots all in one location.
Here are just a few of our favorite areas to cast a line:
Lake Broken Bow is one of the most popular fishing spots in Oklahoma. We consider it our “best-kept secret.” It’s a stunning region that has repeatedly been voted the #1 Best Vacation Spot in Oklahoma and holds a record for largemouth bass.
There’s also Lake Eufaula, the largest in Oklahoma state and a short drive from Oklahoma City. It covers 102,000 acres of water and holds records for both smallmouth bass and white bass.
If striper fishing is what you’re after, you’ll want to head over to Lake Texoma. It’s home to some of the best fishing for the species and also holds records for black bass and blue catfish.
Another local favorite is Lake Hugo, which particularly popular in the winter, offering a great chance to see Oklahoma at its coldest. It might be cold, but you’re bound to find a fantastic catch.
Oklahoma City is central to some of the best fishing in the state. If you’re here hoping to catch a few and experience the nature around you, you’re guaranteed an incredible experience.
