Photo Credit: Maclane Parker
The quaint town of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, serves as a gateway to some of the state’s best fly fishing waters, an absolute can’t miss activity in the area! Just 20 minutes outside of town in Beavers Bend State Park, you can cast a line for rainbow trout, spotted bass, walleye, and much more. An added bonus? You may spot other non-human anglers as you fish, like black bears and bald eagles!
Guided Fishing Expeditions
Photo Credit: Ogletree Photography
If you prefer to leave the trip planning to the professionals, several companies in and around Broken Bow provide guided fishing expeditions that will all but guarantee you a great day on the water. There’s no need to bring anything but yourself, a hat, and some sunscreen. Here are a few of our favorites.
Beavers Bend Fly Fishing and Guide Service
- Price: Half day from $215, full day from $375
- Address: 3840 Old Broken Bow Highway, Broken Bow, OK
- Website: beaversbendflyfishingguideservice.com
This outfitter offers guide service in the Lower Mountain Fork River and surrounding areas. Wade in or drift boat fishing on the Lower Mountain Fork River, a year-round trout fishing haven.
Tied 2 Fly Fishing & Guide Service
- Price: $265 half day, $530 full day (1-2 people)
- Address: 88 Pine Cone Ln, Broken Bow, OK
- Website: tied2fly.com
The outfitter offers a guided fly rod trip tailored to your preferences and skill levels, led by an expert local guide. They serve Beavers Bend State Park, Lower Mountain Fork River, and Southeast Oklahoma.
On the Rivers Fly Fishing Company
- Price: $85/hour private lesson, $265 half day, $475 full day (1-2 people)
- Address: 55 Golf Course Rd, Broken Bow, OK
- Website: ontherivers.com
On the Rivers Fly Fishing Company offers guided expeditions on the Lower Mountain Fork River, plus professional casting instruction for all ability levels.
Bob’s Guide Service
- Price: Half day from $225, full day from $250
- Address: 405 S Costilow St, Broken Bow, OK
- Website: bobsguideservices.com/brokenbowlakefishing
Bob’s offers fun and informative trout fly fishing in Beavers Bend State Park with friendly, accommodating guides.
Get Your Gear
Photo Credit: Zadorozhnyi Viktor
If you’re looking to plan your own fly fishing trip, it’s worth noting that your average pole won’t do the trick, and neither will those earthworms you dug up in the backyard. You’ll need to pick up some new equipment, including a rod and reel, a landing net, and, of course, a variety of different flies. Luckily, you can pick up all the gear you need at the Beavers Bend Fly Shop. You’re also welcome to bring your own from home.
Where to Fly Fish in Broken Bow
Fly fishers in Broken Bow typically head to three locations, all teeming with fish and offering their own unique sights and experiences.
Lower Mountain Fork River
Photo Credit: Maclane Parker
The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation regularly stocks the Lower Mountain Fork River waters with brown and rainbow trout, making this a favorite choice for anglers from all over the country. As you wade into these crystal-clear waters, try not to get too distracted by the scenery around you — you might have a bite before you know it.
Spillway Creek
Photo Credit: Granger Meador via Flickr CC2.0
Part of the Lower Mountain Fork River, this short section of fast-flowing water may not look like much on the map, but it gives you a great shot at hooking trout. Since the area is tight on space, you’ll likely have to share the waters with fellow fishermen. With so many fish in the stream, though, everyone can take home a catch or two.
Broken Bow Lake
Photo Credit: Maclane Parker
Boasting over 200 miles of shoreline, the tranquil Broken Bow Lake has countless inlets and coves where you can cast for bass, walleye, crappie, bluegill, and much more. Even if you don’t catch your target fish, you still get to enjoy the deep blue waters and cool breezes over the reservoir, proving the adage that a bad day of fishing is still better than a good day at the office.
When to Fly Fish in Broken Bow
It might surprise you to learn that the best trout fishing is done in winter, although different kinds of trout will mature at different times. Those who decide to brave the chilly temperatures may have the water virtually to themselves while they cast. You can catch a bite at any time of the day in winter months, as fish will be active even during the warmest hours.
If you prefer to fish in warmer weather, you’ll find plenty of other opportunities for fly fishing throughout the year. Most bass will be biting in spring and fall, while other fish like bluegill and crappie thrive during spring and early summer. From April through September, try to get out on the water early in the morning, as this will increase your chances of nabbing a fish. Not an early riser? Head out at dusk for your second-best opportunity.
Know Before You Go
There are a few more things you’ll want to keep in mind as you plan your fly fishing trip to Broken Bow. Remember to research fishing regulations for each area you want to visit, as these can change by season and location.
You can generally keep what you catch, with the exception of trout, which have strict catch limits based on size and number. Don’t worry; you can still get your trout dinner, but make sure you know how many you can take home at the end of the day and how many you’ll have to release. Trout fishers are also restricted to using barbless hooks only.
You’ll also need a valid fishing license to drop a line, but luckily, you can come by these very cheaply.
- A one-day pass will cost non-state residents just $15
- If you plan on fishing for a few more days, you might want to splurge on the six-day pass for $35.
- An annual pass, meanwhile, will set you back around $55 ($25 for state residents) at the time of publication.
- You can buy a license online at the Department of Conservation or many stores in Broken Bow, including the local Walmart.
Get Ready to Fly Fish in Broken Bow
Now that you know where, when, and how to go fly fishing in Broken Bow, you can start planning your trip. Book your stay at the Bear Cabins for boutique, comfortable accommodations just a few minutes away from all the fishing fun.
Our lodgings will feel like your home away from home, with different locations to suit every kind of vacationer. That way, you can focus on what’s important — like landing the big fish of your dreams. Just don’t forget your Oklahoma fishing license!
