Cabin Country isn’t all just luxury cabins and miles and miles of pristine state park. It’s also a hotbed for rainbow and brown trout, as well as a school of other fish that make it ideal for every skill level of angler. From dropping a pole in the lake to fly fishing on the Lower Mountain Fork River, there’s plenty of fish in the sea here. But before you start trying to catch your daily limit, let’s make sure you have everything you need when it comes to rules and regulations.

Do I Need a Fishing License?

Everyone who wants to take fish out of the water here (and just about anywhere else) has to have a fishing license. And we mean everyone. It’s a state law, so it’s best to abide by it. If you’re planning on fishing within the Hanobia Creek or Three Rivers Wildlife Management Area, you also need a Land Access Permit, unless you’re exempt. 

And a little tip: you’ve got to keep that paperwork on your person at all times while you’re fishing. 

For more information, licensing fees, and anything else you need to know about permits and licenses, visit the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation’s website. 

Where Can I Get A License?

There’s no shortage of spots to snag yourself a license here. Many convenience stores around the area carry them, as well as the local Wal-Mart. There’ll usually be a sign on the door that says if they sell fishing licenses, so just keep an eye out for them.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Gear?

While you’re always welcome to bring your own bait and tackle, it’s no big deal if you don’t. There are more than a few places close by to rent equipment and gear to make sure you’re set for a great day on the water. 

Where Should I Go?

There’s no wrong answer, it all depends on the style of fishing you’re looking for. Like we said, there’s plenty of space on the lake or along the river. Some of the best spots include:

• Broken Bow Lake
• Ouachita National Forest
• Pine Creek Lake
• Glover Lake
• Lower Mountain Fork River
• Little River
• Honobia Creek/Three Rivers Wildlife Management Areas

But if you want a professional to take you around and show you the very best spots, we make it easy to hire a guide who’ll show you the ropes and have you hooking whoppers in no time.

What is My Daily Limit?

There’s more trout and other fish here than you can shake a stick at. But we want to make sure people share the wealth, so just make sure you check the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation’s website to make sure you’re not overfishing. 

After all that, you’re ready to pack some sunscreen in that tackle box and hit the water. Happy casting, hook us a big one!