Oklahoma offers some of the best fishing opportunities anywhere. The state is known for its huge reservoirs, but did you know the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) actually owns and manages its very own assortment of smaller fishing lakes?

ODWC owns and manages 17 lakes across the state specifically for public fishing and recreation. These waters are maintained to ensure healthy fish populations and quality fishing experiences for anglers of all ages and skill levels. 

In the 1950s and ‘60s, ODWC began building Department fishing lakes. They were designed to be smaller and easier to fish from the bank. The program grew steadily over the years. 

Most Department-owned lakes offer various conveniences: 

• Fishing piers and docks: Many lakes have ADA-accessible docks, making it easy for everyone to reach the water.
• Fish attractors: ODWC sinks brush piles or spider blocks underwater. These act like underwater playgrounds where fish love to hide.
• Boat ramps: If you have a small boat or a kayak, most lakes have a ramp to get you in the water.
• Picnic and camping areas.

ODWC regularly stocks these lakes with channel catfish, sunfish and largemouth bass to make sure there are plenty of chances to catch fish. 

Access to these lakes is easy, but here are some things to remember:

• Fishing licenses: Almost everyone age 19 and older needs an Oklahoma fishing license. You can carry a paper copy or use the Go Outdoors Oklahoma app on your mobile phone.
• New for 2026: If you are visiting from out of state (a nonresident), you are required to "check in" and "check out" using the mobile app when you visit Department-managed areas.
• Foot traffic: Some areas around the lakes are "walk-in only" to protect the habitat, so be prepared for a little hike to find that perfect fishing hole. 

All anglers must follow state fishing regulations, but special rules may apply to certain waters. Anglers are urged to check the Oklahoma Fishing and Hunting Regulations and special area rules before they visit. 

Fishing at ODWC-managed lakes is not only recreational, it also helps support wildlife conservation. License fees and other contributions fund the management and protection of Oklahoma’s natural resources, ensuring these lakes and other habitats across the state remain healthy and accessible for future generations. 

This content originally appeared in the March/April 2026 issue of Outdoor Oklahoma magazine. 

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