The Mountain Fork River: float, fish, and where to access it

Everyone talks about Broken Bow Lake. The river below the dam is the other half of the area, and most first-time visitors never touch it. Here's the breakdown.

THE RIVER The Mountain Fork River flows out of Broken Bow Lake's dam, runs about 12 miles through Beavers Bend State Park, and continues south toward the Red River. The state-park stretch is what visitors use.

WATER Cold (50–55°F year-round, even in summer) and clear. The cold water comes from the bottom of the lake through the dam.

FLOAT TRIPS The standard float is the 5-mile run from the dam to Eagle Creek take-out. Class I water, occasional Class II during dam releases. Beginner-friendly, suitable for kids 8+.

Rent from Beaver Bend Marina, Broken Bow Water Adventures, or ROAR Rentals. Shuttle is included with most rentals.

Best months: April–October. Spring is highest water; summer is warmest and busiest; September/October are the prettiest and least crowded.

FISHING This is one of the only trout streams in Oklahoma. Stocked weekly October–March with rainbow trout, occasional brown trout. Some are stocked year-round but summer water is too warm for them to thrive.

License + trout stamp required. Buy at gooutdoorsoklahoma.com.

Best stretches: 1. First half-mile below the dam — easiest access, most stocked. 2. Re-Reg Pond and the run just below it — easy walk-in. 3. Lower river past the Re-Reg — fewer people, more wading.

Gear: light spinning rod with PowerBait or small spinners. Fly anglers: #16 prince nymph, #18 zebra midge, or a small streamer in spring.

DAM RELEASES The Corps releases water from the dam on a schedule (hydropower and downstream needs). When they're releasing, the river is high and fast — great for kayaking, harder for fishing or wading.

Check the daily release schedule posted at Beavers Bend State Park headquarters or the trout-fishing area. The Corps' Tulsa District lake-data page lists it too.

ACCESS Main access is through Beavers Bend State Park ($10 vehicle fee). Park near the dam or the Re-Reg Pond. There are walk-in pull-offs along the river road.