Your Guide to Trout Fishing on the Lower Mountain Fork River

If you’re heading to Beavers Bend to fish for trout, you’re in for a treat. The Lower Mountain Fork River is one of the best places in Oklahoma for year-round trout fishing—thanks to the cold, clear water flowing from Broken Bow Lake. Whether you’re after rainbow trout, brown trout, or just looking to spend a quiet morning on the water, this is the spot to do it.

But before you cast a line, there are a few important rules to know—along with some tips for first-timers who want to book a guide or grab a license day-of. Here’s everything you need to know to fish responsibly (and have a great time doing it).

Where Do I Get a Fishing License?

Everyone 18 and older needs a valid Oklahoma fishing license to fish for trout on the Lower Mountain Fork River—no exceptions.

The easiest way to get one? Buy it online at www.gooutdoorsok.com. It only takes a few minutes, and you can show a digital copy on your phone—no printer required.

You can also pick up a license day-of from local bait shops, outdoor outfitters, and some gas stations in Broken Bow and Hochatown.

Do I Need a Parking Pass?

Yes—Beavers Bend State Park now requires a paid parking permit. You can buy a pass online ahead of time or on your phone when you arrive.

Purchase your parking pass at:
👉 www.premiumparking.com
Use location code: P4602 when selecting where you’ll be parking.

Where Can I Trout Fish?

Trout fishing on the Lower Mountain Fork River is divided into two main areas:

Area 1 – Spillway

Spanning from the Broken Bow Lake Spillway down to the Old State Park Dam, Area 1 offers consistently cold water, steady trout stocking, and easy access points within Beavers Bend State Park. Anglers who appreciate convenient parking and scenic wading opportunities tend to favor this section, as it’s great for beginners or anyone wanting to maximize time on the water.

Area 2 – Old State Park Dam

Located between the Old State Park Dam and the U.S. Highway 70 Bridge, Area 2 is known for its special rules, making it more of a catch-and-release destination for most. Adventurous anglers flock here for its slightly wilder feel and the chance to land a trophy-size catch. Access requires a bit more planning, but it’s a rewarding spot if you enjoy a challenge.

Are There Any Special Rules?

Yes. Area 2 (from the Old State Park Dam to the U.S. Highway 70 Bridge) has its own limits:

• You can only keep 1 trout total from Area 2
• It must be 25 inches or longer

So, for most folks, Area 2 is primarily a catch-and-release section.

How Many Trout Can I Keep?

Here’s a simple breakdown of the daily and size limits:

Rainbow Trout

• Daily limit: 3 per person
• Only one can be over 25 inches
• Palomino trout (the bright yellow ones) count as rainbows—up to 3 total per day

Brown Trout

• Daily limit: 1 per person (counts toward the 3-trout total limit)
• Must be 30 inches or bigger to keep

Two-Day Possession Limit

• You cannot have more than two days’ worth of fish in your possession
• That means up to 6 trout per person total (if staying multiple days), 12 trout for two people, and so on
• This prevents people from stockpiling fish over longer stays—if you plan to keep fishing, cook up what you’ve already caught.

What Kind of Gear Can I Use?

• Barbless hooks only—this applies to the entire Lower Mountain Fork River
• You can fish with only one rod and reel (or one pole and line) at a time
• Bait is allowed in some sections—check posted signs for bait-restricted zones
• Once a trout is on your stringer or in your basket, it counts as kept—you can’t release it later

Can I Get a Fishing License the Day I Arrive?

Definitely! If you wake up and decide to fish, you can grab a license the same day.

• Local bait shops and gas stations around Hochatown and Broken Bow sell licenses, or
• Buy online anytime at www.gooutdoorsok.com and pull it up on your phone

I’m New to Fishing—Can I Book a Guide?

Absolutely! If you’re new to trout fishing (or just want some help finding the best spots), hiring a local guide is a great way to go.

Guides know where the fish are biting, provide all the gear you’ll need, and can teach you techniques like fly fishing or spin casting. Many guides offer half-day or full-day trips—and some focus on beginner-friendly experiences, so don’t worry if you’ve never picked up a rod before.

Anything Else I Should Know?

Didymo, a nuisance algae sometimes called “rock snot,” is present in the river. To help protect the Lower Mountain Fork (and other rivers in Oklahoma). Clean and dry your waders, boots, and fishing gear thoroughly before moving to another body of water.

Who Can I Contact if I Have Questions?

If you’re unsure about any of the regulations—or need help while you’re out there—reach out to the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) or local game wardens:

ODWC Main Office

• 1801 N. Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105
• (405) 521-3721
• wildlifedepartment.com

McCurtain County Game Wardens:

• Lt. Kenny Lawson: (580) 513-4963
• Mark Hannah: (580) 513-4651
• Lt. Dru Polk: (580) 513-6866

Final Word

Fishing the Lower Mountain Fork River is an experience people come back for, year after year. Now that you know the rules, you’re ready to enjoy one of the best trout streams in the state—whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer.

Good luck out there—and enjoy the beauty of Beavers Bend!