Fish Programs
Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS)
This program works with private citizens, state and federal agencies, municipalities, sportsmen's clubs and lake associations to protect our states waters against invasive species. The program is focused on public outreach and education and also consists of sampling efforts, permitting and decontamination of watercrafts. The program also serves as a mechanism for federal funding to promote implementation projects.
Close to Home Fishing
Looking for a nearby lake or pond to fish in? Through
agreements between Oklahoma municipalities and the Wildlife
Department, these areas offer excellent "Close to Home" fishing
opportunities in metro areas.
In addition to state fishing license requirements, some
municipalities require daily or annual city fishing permits.
Environmental Program
This program cooperation with other state agencies, investigates pollution complaints that affect fish and wildlife resources. It also reviews environmental impact documents, including water discharge permits and major construction projects that adversely impact fish or wildlife habitat.
Farm Pond Stocking Program and Pond Management
The Department’s farm pond fish stocking program is designed to help owners of new or reclaimed farm ponds create a fishery by providing largemouth bass, channel catfish and bluegill to qualified pond owners. To receive fish from the Department a number of conditions must be met.
Lake Record Fish
This program recognizes anglers and their big fish and the lakes they come from.
Paddlefish Research Center
The Wildlife Department's paddlefish management program involves an extensive process of netting, weighing, measuring and marking paddlefish with metal tags on the front of the jaw.
Sport Fish Restoration Program
Provides grant funds to the states, the District of Columbia and insular areas fish and wildlife agencies for fishery projects, boating access and aquatic education. The Program is authorized by the Sport Fish Restoration Act (Dingell-Johnson DJ) of 1950.
Streams Management
Successful stream fisheries require intensive management of three components including habitat, organisms and people. Read about our stream program’s efforts to preserve and optimize each of these in Oklahoma.