Oklahoma fishing guide

Welcome to your key source for all fishing-related information in Oklahoma. Discover not only the prime fishing spots but also learn about the diverse species inhabiting these waters. Stay informed about the latest fishing regulations and licensing requirements for fishing in Oklahoma

1296 spots
30 fish
33 lakes
7 rivers

What kind of fish can you catch in Oklahoma

Below are 30 types of fish that can be caught in Oklahoma. The data have been collected based on fishing reports from Oklahoma and have undergone serious moderation. Explore the map of Oklahoma to find out where a particular type of fish is biting.

What rivers flow through Oklahoma?

Below is a list of rivers that flow through Oklahoma. Study the fishing map of the rivers to find out where and what kind of fish are in the river and when is the best time to catch them

Licenses for fishing in Oklahoma

Please note, the prices and types of licenses are based on residency, age, and specific fishing activities. For the most accurate and updated information, and to purchase a license online, visit the official Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation website

License Type Price for Residents Price for Non-Residents Validity
Annual Fishing $25.00 $55.00 Jan 1 - Dec 31
6-Day Fishing - $35.00 Six consecutive days
1-Day Fishing - $15.00 One day
2-Day Fishing $15.00 - Two consecutive days
5-Year Fishing Varies - Five years
Lifetime Fishing Varies - Lifetime
Youth Annual Fishing (16-17 years) $5.00 - One year
Lake Texoma Varies Varies Specific for Lake Texoma
Paddlefish Permit - - Required for paddlefish
Disability Fishing (5 years) Varies - Five years
Lifetime Senior Citizen Fishing Varies - Lifetime
Resident Land Access Permit $40.00 - Jan 1 - Dec 31
Special Use Land Access Permit (3-day) $10.00 - Three consecutive days
Wildlife Conservation Passport (3-day) $15.00 - Three consecutive days
Annual Wildlife Conservation Passport $26.00 - Jan 1 - Dec 31

Fishing Regulations in Oklahoma

Prohibited Gear and Fishing Methods
  • Use of explosives, poisons, or electrical devices for fishing is illegal.
  • Fishing with nets, traps, or seines is allowed only with specific permits and in designated areas.
  • Use of live fish as bait is restricted in certain waters to prevent the spread of invasive species.
  • Snagging is prohibited except in designated areas and during certain seasons.
  • Spearing or gigging is allowed only for certain species and in specific waters.
Catch Limits
  • Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: Daily limit of 6, only 1 bass over 14 inches in certain areas.
  • Crappie: Daily limit of 37, with a size limit of 10 inches in most areas.
  • Catfish: Daily limit of 15 channel and blue catfish combined, only 1 over 30 inches.
  • Trout: Daily limit of 6, no size restrictions in most areas.
  • Walleye, Saugeye, and Sauger: Daily limit of 6, size limits vary by water body.
  • Striped Bass: Daily limit of 5, only 1 over 20 inches in lakes and reservoirs.
  • White Bass and Hybrid Striped Bass: Daily limit of 20, only 5 over 20 inches.
  • Panfish (Bluegill, Sunfish): No daily limit, no size limit.
  • Paddlefish: Seasonal and area-specific limits, catch and release only in certain areas.
  • Alligator Gar: Daily limit of 1, special permit required for harvest.
Restrictions on Access to Water Bodies
  • Access to some waters may be restricted for wildlife management or conservation efforts.
  • Fishing on private property requires explicit permission from the landowner.
  • Special regulations for fishing in state parks and wildlife refuges.
  • No fishing zones enforced around certain infrastructure like dams and fish hatcheries.
  • Seasonal access restrictions in certain areas for fish spawning and habitat management.
Zones of Special Regulation
  • Catch-and-release areas for certain species, particularly trout and black bass.
  • Areas with gear restrictions, such as artificial lures only or fly fishing zones.
  • Slot limits for bass in certain lakes and rivers to protect young fish.
  • Special regulations in waters with high fishing pressure or ecological sensitivity.
  • Designated trophy bass areas with enhanced size and bag limits.
Protection of Rare Species
  • Fishing for endangered or threatened species is strictly prohibited.
  • Special regulations in habitats of rare or sensitive aquatic species.
  • Research fishing for rare species requires special permits.
  • Reporting accidental catches of rare species is essential for conservation efforts.
  • Areas with significant ecological value may have additional fishing restrictions.
Seasonal Restrictions
  • Closed seasons for specific species to protect them during spawning or migration.
  • Ice fishing regulations, including shelter and equipment rules, during the winter months.
  • Seasonal closures in sensitive ecological areas for species protection and habitat restoration.
  • Temporary closures during environmental events or for population assessments.
  • Special regulations for early and late fishing seasons in certain areas.
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