Fishing is its own kind of meditation. The moment your line leaves the rod, the rest of the world quiets—no bills, no deadlines, no wondering what’s for dinner. For a while, there’s only the water, offering a rare sense of calm in the rush of everyday life. And when you discover the right spot, it feels almost sacred. A peaceful bend in the river where a gentle breeze drifts by, sunlight dances on the surface, the fish seem eager and the water itself speaks to you. It’s the kind of place you return to again and again, season after season, year after year. Choctaw Country is full of fishing spots just like this. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or casting your first line, we invite you to reel in the adventure and experience some of our favorite places to fish. BROKEN BOW LAKE & MOUNTAIN FORK RIVER The area around Beavers Bend State Park is one of the most popular fishing destinations in all of Choctaw Country – and for good reason. From smallmouth, largemouth and spotted bass to black or white crappie and more, Broken Bow Lake offers a diverse population of fish. To make the most of your day on the lake, be sure to pick up a stylish ride at Bandits ATV & Boat Rental. Just south of the lake, the Lower Mountain Fork River, known for its year-round supply of trout, is a choice spot for fly fishers. If you’re new to fly fishing, or even if you just want help from someone familiar with the area, check out one of the local guides, like Beavers Bend Fly Fishing Guide Service. They’ll know which flies are in season and are happy to teach beginners the basics, like how to tie a fly. ATOKA LAKE & McGEE CREEK STATE PARK If you’re looking for a quiet place with a little less traffic, Atoka Lake delivers with channel catfish, largemouth bass, crappie and sunfish. There’s also a small site for primitive camping with accommodations for both tents and RVs (without water or electrical hookups). McGee Creek State Park lies nearby, another peaceful refuge off the beaten path. The McGee Creek Reservoir is one of the best places to fish in the state, with an ample supply of smallmouth and largemouth bass, channel catfish, sunfish, perch and crappie – to name a few. But the fun doesn’t stop on the water. Boasting hiking and equestrian trails, primitive and RV campsites with full hookups, picnic areas, a playground and a gift shop, there’s plenty to keep you and the family busy while you’re here. LAKE JOHN WELLS & ROBERT S. KERR RESERVOIR Another of the lesser-known fishing hotspots, Lake John Wells lies tucked away outside of Stigler. Local anglers report largemouth bass, black crappie, white crappie and bluegill fish. There’s a small camping area by the lake, but spots are limited so be sure to stake your claim early. If you want a little more room to spread out, the Robert S. Kerr Reservoir, the third largest lake in Oklahoma, can be found to the east. This sprawling lake is home to largemouth and spotted bass, black crappie, white crappie and catfish of all sorts, including blue, channel and flathead. Some of the most popular places to cast a line are the Sans Bois and Sallisaw Creeks and the Illinois and Canadian Rivers – the lake’s major tributaries.