Trout stocking has been suspended for the month of September in the Lower Illinois River due to elevated water temperatures. Trout are especially sensitive to warm temperatures and stocking will resume once temperatures drop to safe levels.
We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of our anglers during this time.
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Matt Mauck with a beautiful Oklahoma striper!
Hooked on Striper
This month’s Reel Talk, Real Tips is one you won’t want to miss!
Join us on Tuesday, Sept. 24 at noon as we dive into the exciting world of striper fishing with ODWC South-Central Regional Fisheries Supervisor Matt Mauck.
Known as one of Oklahoma’s hardest-fighting fish, stripers are a thrill whether you’re a seasoned angler or just getting started. If you’ve never hooked one or if you’re looking for new strategies to land more, this episode is for you. Tune in live, drop your questions in the comments, and get expert tips you can use on your next fishing trip.
Your next big catch could be just one watch away!
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A smallmouth bass by Bridget Kirk.
September and River Smallmouth
As the days turn cooler, many lakes and reservoirs slow down during midday, but that doesn’t mean the fishing has to. Fall is one of the best times to enjoy stream fishing for smallmouth bass, and it’s a great way to spend time outdoors surrounded by autumn colors.
When you hit the stream, focus on areas where smallmouth love to ambush prey, such as woody structures, boulders, riffles, pools, runs, and tail-outs. These spots almost always hold active fish this time of year.
Looking for a new challenge? Fly fishing for smallmouth bass is an exciting way to test your skills. Stripping flies, nymphs, and dry flies are all effective choices to bring these aggressive fish to hand.
Don’t miss out on one of fall’s most enjoyable fishing opportunities. Grab your rod, get outside, and make the most of the season. Remember, your fishing license helps keep streams and rivers healthy for generations to come.
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Photo by RBFF/WAFWA
Topwater Fishing is Epic
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of a fish blowing up on a topwater lure and in Oklahoma, the best times to experience it are late summer, fall, and early spring, especially during the cool mornings and evenings.
Why then? That’s when frogs, lizards, snakes, and insects are most active on the water’s edge. Add in low-light conditions, and you’ve got fish moving into shallow water in the backs of coves and creek arms, hunting for an easy meal.
With so many different types of topwater lures, you might be wondering… where do you start?
The answer is simple: match the hatch. Take a look around your fishing spot, notice what prey is naturally present, and choose your lure accordingly. If frogs are hopping, reach for a topwater frog. If you see a certain insect crawling, tie on a popper
The right lure at the right time can turn an ordinary cast into an unforgettable strike.
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A channel catfish by Hugh Fitz / The Dock
Upload Your Catch
The Wildlife Department is proud to showcase your Oklahoma fish catches to the world. The Dock is a photo sharing platform at Wildlifedepartment.com where anglers can upload fish photos right from their mobile phone. So catch that fish, snap that pic and show it off at The Dock.
