Never Met a Fish I Didn’t Like
“The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit of what is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope.” – John Buchan
Grab your favorite rod and reel, a handful of bait and let’s fish! Chickasaw Country has long been known for its quality and diversity of fish, from monster blue cats to beautiful trout. Here’s a quick guide to fill you in on some of the hot fishing spots here in south-central Oklahoma.
Why go if you’re not going to go big? Big shoreline, big fish, big-time fun. In fact, a record-shattering blue catfish was caught in Lake Texoma back in 2004, weighing in at a whopping 98 pounds and nearly 40 inches in girth! And don’t forget about the legendary Lake Texoma alligator gar. In 2015, an eight-foot-long, 254-pound behemoth was reeled in off the lake’s shores near the mouth of the Red River (they released it, so she’s still out there). Start your fishing excursion by visiting Catfish Bay Marina just east of Kingston for a boat rental, snacks and more.
Known widely for its pristine spring-fed waters, Lake Murray is no slouch in the fishing department. Known for its variety of large and smallmouth bass, you’re likely to encounter as many fish as you do beautiful views.
Try your hand at bow fishing, an alternative style of fishing, at Lake of the Arbuckles. The state record grass carp was harvested here in 2002, weighing in at a whopping 77 pounds. With more than 36 miles of shoreline, you’re sure to find a new favorite spot!
The region’s best rainbow trout fishing can be found down on the Blue River in Johnston County. The river is stocked weekly with trout from November to March, but you’ll find that the fishing is great year-round.
Where’s your favorite fishing hole in Chickasaw Country? I’d love to know! Send us a comment below or tweet at us using the hashtag #VisitChickasaw! Until then, happy fishing!
Jared
(Originally pusblished on April 18, 2018. Updated on March 3, 2019)
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