Whatzup Outdoors (225)
Written by David Deaton
Fishing Report for May 13, 2020
Central
Arcadia: May 12. Elevation normal, water 68 and stained. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/ARCA.lakepage.html. Crappie good on minnows, jigs and tube jigs along riprap, rocks and shallows. Channel and blue catfish good on cut bait and shad along creek channels and river mouth. White bass fair on crankbaits and in-spinnerbaits along the dam. Report submitted by Mark Murray, game warden stationed in Oklahoma County.
Draper: May 11. Elevation below normal, water 70 and stained. For current elevation conditions go to the US Geological Survey website at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?site_no=07229445. Crappie fair on minnows and tube jigs around brush structure and standing timber. Largemouth bass good on flukes, plastic baits, spinnerbaits and topwater lures around brush structure, flats, shallows and shorelines. Blue catfish fair on cut bait in the main lake and around points. Report submitted by Chad Strang, game warden stationed in Cleveland County.
Hefner: May 9. Elevation normal, water 66 and murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Geological Survey website at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/ok/nwis/uv?site_no=07159550. Blue and channel catfish fair on cut bait, dough bait and live bait along channels and dam. White bass fair on jigs and lipless baits along the dam, points and rocks. Walleye fair on jigs and worms along flats, points and spillway. Report submitted by Dylan King and Tim Campbell, game warden stationed in Oklahoma County.
Overholser: May 12. Elevation normal, water 70 and stained. For current elevation conditions go to the US Geological Survey website at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/usa/nwis/uv?07240500. Striped bass hybrids and channel catfish fair on chicken liver, crawfish and shrimp in the main lake. White bass fair on crankbaits, jigs, in-line spinnerbaits and sassy shad around docks and main lake. Report submitted by Mark Murray, game warden stationed in Oklahoma County.
Thunderbird: May 10. Elevation normal, water 69 and stained. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/THUN.lakepage.html. Saugeye fair on jigs and worms along flats and points. Channel catfish fair on cut bait and dough bait along channels, dam and main lake. Report submitted by Zach Paulk, game warden stationed in Cleveland County.
Wes Watkins: May 11. Elevation above normal, water 67 and muddy. For current elevation conditions go to the US Geological Survey website at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/ok/nwis/uv/?site_no=07241588&PARAmeter_cd=00065,00060. Channel catfish fair on chicken liver, cut bait, stinkbait and worms around points, riprap and shorelines. Largemouth bass slow on plastic baits and spinnerbaits around brush structure and points. Crappie slow on minnows and jigs along riprap. Report submitted by Mike France, game warden stationed in Pottawatomie County.
Northeast
Bell Cow: May 10. Elevation normal ,water 69 and muddy. Largemouth bass good on buzz baits, crankbaits, plastic baits and worms around brush structure, riprap and standing timber. Channel catfish slow on chicken liver and stinkbait around brush structure. Crappie slow on jigs, minnows and small lures around docks, riprap and standing timber. Report submitted by Jacob Harriet, game warden stationed in Lincoln County.
Birch: May 10. Elevation normal, water 60s and murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/BIRC.lakepage.html. Spotted bass good on minnows and plastic baits along riprap and rocks. Crappie fair on minnows and jigs around brush structure, docks, rocks and standing timber. Report submitted by Jeremy Bersche, game warden stationed in Osage County.
Carl Blackwell: May 11. Elevation above normal, water 65-67 and murky. Crappie fair on hair jigs, jigs, minnows, small lures and tube jigs around brush structure, docks, points, rocks and shorelines. Blue and channel catfish slow on chicken liver, punch bait, stinkbait and worms in the main lake, around points and shorelines. Striped bass hybrids slow on crankbaits, jigs, sassy shad and spoons along the dam, main lake and spillway. Flathead catfish being caught on live bait; they are starting to move to the points. Fishing has been varying day to day due to the weather. Report submitted by Vince Mesis, game warden stationed in Logan County.
Chandler: May 10. Elevation normal, water 70 and stained. Crappie slow on jigs, minnows and small lures around brush structure, docks and standing timber. Largemouth bass slow on buzz baits, plastic baits, spinnerbaits and topwater lures around brush structure and standing timber. Report submitted by Jacob Harriet, game warden stationed in Lincoln County.
Copan: May 10. Elevation normal, water 60s and clearing. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/webdata/gagedata/CPLO2.current.html. Channel, blue and flathead catfish fair on chicken liver, live bait and worms below the dam, along riprap and shorelines. Crappie good on minnows and jigs in coves, along creek channels and shorelines. White bass fair on hair jigs, jigs and minnows along creek channels and shorelines. Report submitted by Joe Alexander, game warden stationed in Washington County.
Eucha: May 10. Elevation normal, water 60s and murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Geological Survey website at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/usa/nwis/uv?07191285. Lake levels have stabilized and fish have become more active on the warmer days. On cool days the activity slows dramatically. Largemouth bass fair on Alabama rigs, crankbaits, jerk baits, plastic baits and spinnerbaits around brush structure, docks, rocks, standing timber and in coves. Crappie fair on minnows, jigs and PowerBait around brush structure, docks and shorelines. Channel catfish fair on chicken liver, cut bait, dough bait and shad below the dam, along channels, creek channels, docks, river channel, river mouth, rocks and in coves. Report submitted by Riley Willman, game warden stationed in Delaware County.
Ft. Gibson: May 11. Elevation above normal, water 72 and more than 1 ft. of clarity. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/FGIB.lakepage.html. Largemouth bass good on jigs, plastic baits and spinnerbaits around brush structure, rocks and shallows. White bass good on sassy shad and tube jigs around brush structure, rocks and shallows. White bass good on sassy shad and tube jigs along the river channel. Paddlefish fair snagging below the dam. Report submitted by Ben Haff, game warden stationed in Wagoner County.
Grand: May 10. Elevation 2 ft. above normal, water 60s and murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/PENS.lakepage.html. The fish activity seems to spike on warmer days and decline with the cold fronts. Largemouth bass good on Alabama rigs, crankbaits, jerk baits, plastic baits and spinnerbaits around brush structure, docks, points, rocks, standing timber, weed beds and in coves. Channel catfish fair on chicken liver, cut bait, dough bait and shad below the dam, along channels, creek channels, docks, river channel, river mouth, rocks and in coves. Crappie fair on hair jigs, jigs, minnows and PowerBait around brush structure, docks and shorelines. White bass good below the dam. Paddlefish activity has slowed dramatically. Report submitted by Riley Willman, game warden stationed in Delaware County.
Greenleaf: May 10. Elevation normal, water 67 and murky. Green sunfish excellent on minnows and worms around docks, shallows and shorelines. Largemouth bass good on plastic baits, spinnerbaits and topwater lures in coves and along shallows. Blue catfish good on cut bait in coves, along flats and shorelines. Report submitted by Josey Branch, game warden stationed in Muskogee County.
Hudson: May 12. Elevation normal, water 67 and murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/HUDS.lakepage.html. White bass and striped bass hybrids fair on hair jigs, live bait and sassy shad below the dam. Paddlefish good snagging below the dam. Report submitted by Monte Reid, game warden stationed in Mayes County.
Hulah: May 10. Elevation normal, water 60s and clearing. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/HULA.lakepage.html. White bass and crappie fair on hair jigs, in-line spinnerbaits, jigs and minnows in coves and along creek channels. Blue, channel and flathead catfish fair on chicken liver, live bait, minnows and worms below the dam, along river channel and shorelines. Report submitted by Joe Alexander, game warden stationed in Washington County.
Kaw: May 11. Elevation 1 1/3 ft. above normal, water 60s and muddy. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/KAWL.lakepage.html. Blue, channel and flathead catfish good on crawfish, cut bait, goldfish, live bait, live shad, punch bait, sunfish and worms below the dam, along channels, flats, main lake, river channel and river mouth. Crappie good on grubs, jigs, minnows and PowerBait below the dam, around brush structure, creek channels, riprap and in coves. Striped bass hybrids, striped bass and white bass fair on flukes, hair jigs, jerk baits, sassy shad and topwater lures below the dam. Report submitted by Spencer Grace, game warden stationed in Kay County.
Keystone: May 7. Elevation above normal, water muddy. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/KEYS.lakepage.html. Blue catfish good on cut bait below the dam and along channels. Crappie fair on minnows and jigs around brush structure. Largemouth bass fair on plastic baits and small lures along shorelines. Report submitted by Karlin Bailey, game warden stationed in Creek County.
Lower Illinois: May 8. Elevation above normal, water 55 and murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Geological Survey website at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/usa/nwis/uv?site_no=07198000. Water levels increased again due to rain. Currently running 5,000 CFS at the time of this report. Rainbow trout fair on in-line spinnerbaits and PowerBait below the dam. Report submitted by Brek Henry, game warden stationed in Sequoyah County.
Oologah: May 9. Elevation normal, water stained. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/webdata/gagedata/OOLO2.current.html. Crappie slow on minnows and jigs at 8-12 ft. around brush structure. Largemouth bass good on crankbaits, plastic baits and topwater lures along riprap and weed beds. Blue catfish slow on cut bait and shad below the dam. Report submitted by J.D. Stauffer, game warden stationed in Rogers County.
Skiatook: May 10. Elevation normal, water 60s and clear. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/skia.lakepage.html. Largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass fair on crankbaits, plastic baits and spinnerbaits along shorelines and in coves. Striped bass hybrids and white bass fair on in-line spinnerbaits, sassy shad and topwater lures in the main lake surfacing early mornings and late evenings. Crappie fair on minnows and jigs around brush structure, creek channels, standing timber and bridges. Report submitted by Paul Welch, game warden stationed in Osage County.
Sooner: May 10. Elevation normal, water 50s and murky. Largemouth bass fair on jerk baits and plastic baits around brush structure and weed beds. Crappie fair on minnows along riprap. Striped bass hybrids fair on jigs in the discharge. Report submitted by Stephen Paul, game warden stationed in Noble County.
Spavinaw: May 10. Elevation normal, water 60s and murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Geological Survey website at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/usa/nwis/uv?07191300. Largemouth bass good on crankbaits, jigs and plastic baits around brush structure, shorelines and in coves. White bass fair on crankbaits and plastic baits along creek channels. Crappie good on minnows and jigs along shallows and shorelines. Report submitted by Kody Moore, game warden stationed in Mayes County.
Tenkiller: May 10. Elevation normal, water 60s and murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/TENK.lakepage.html. Largemouth and spotted bass excellent on jigs, plastic baits and spinnerbaits along shallows and shorelines. White bass fair on crankbaits, goldfish and jigs along creek channels and river channel. Crappie good on minnows and jigs around brush structure, docks and shallows. Report submitted by Cody Youngblood, game warden stationed in Cherokee County.
Webbers Falls: May 10. Elevation normal, water 67 and murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/webdata/gagedata/WFLO2.current.html. Blue and channel catfish good on cut bait below the dam. Paddlefish good snagging below the dam. Largemouth bass good on crankbaits, plastic baits and spinnerbaits along flats, shallows and in coves. Report submitted by Josey Branch, game warden stationed in Muskogee County.
Northwest
Canton: May 9. Elevation above normal, water 67 and clear. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/CANT.lakepage.html. White bass excellent on crankbaits along the dam and main lake. Crappie good on minnows and jigs around brush structure and in coves. Report submitted by Mark Walker, game warden stationed in Blaine County.
Foss: May 11. Elevation 1/4 ft. below normal with all gates closed. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/FOSS.lakepage.html. Walleye good on live bait near the dam. Striped bass hybrids fair to good on live bait and hard plastic baits. Catfish fair to good on cut bait and stinkbait near Lake View. White bass fair in the river. Report submitted by Eric Puyear, B & K Bait House.
Southeast
Arbuckle: May 9. Elevation normal, water 72 and stained. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/ARBU.lakepage.html. Largemouth bass good on topwater chug baits, crankbaits and shaky head lures. Smallmouth and spotted bass being caught on crawfish colored crankbaits and shaky head lures. Crappie good on minnows and jigs off docks early morning and fair at 12 ft. around brush piles. White bass good on grubs when you can find them, they seem to be scattered. Report submitted by Jack Melton.
Broken Bow: May 8. Elevation rising, water 73. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/BROK.lakepage.html. Largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass good on crankbaits and spinnerbaits around brush structure, points and shallows. Channel catfish fair on chicken liver, cut bait and punch bait along channels, creek channels and in coves. Report submitted by Dru Polk, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
Eufaula: May 8. Elevation above normal, water 72 and murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/EUFA.lakepage.html. Crappie excellent on crickets, jigs and minnows along creek channels, rocks, shallows and in coves. Blue catfish fair on cut bait, shad, shrimp and worms below the dam, along the dam and in the main lake. White bass good on jigs and small lures below the dam and along the dam. Report submitted by Cannon Harrison, game warden stationed in McIntosh County.
Hugo: May 8. Elevation above normal, water 62 and murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/HUGO.lakepage.html. Blue, channel and flathead catfish good on chicken liver, cut bait, dough bait, live bait, punch bait, shad and sunfish below the dam, along channels, creek channels, main lake, river channel and shorelines. Crappie good on minnows and jigs below the dam, around brush structure, channels, creek channels, main lake, river channel, shorelines and standing timber. Report submitted by Andrew Potter, game warden stationed in Choctaw County.
Konawa: May 9. Elevation normal, water 72. Largemouth bass slow on flukes, plastic baits and spinnerbaits in coves, inlet, around points and riprap. White bass slow on lipless baits, plastic baits and tube jigs along channels, creek channels, dam, main lake, around points and riprap. Channel catfish good on cut bait, shad and sunfish along channels, main lake and points. Report submitted by Matt Penwright, game warden stationed in Pontotoc County.
Lower Mountain Fork: May 8. Elevation normal, water clear. For current elevation conditions go to the US Geological Survey website at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/ok/nwis/uv?site_no=07339000. Rainbow trout good on nymphs, PowerBait, small lures and worms along creek channels, river channel and rocks. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
McGee Creek: May 8. Elevation normal, water 71 and stained. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/MCGE.lakepage.html. Largemouth and spotted bass good on crankbaits, flukes, in-line spinnerbaits and plastic baits around brush structure, points, shorelines and in coves. Channel and flathead catfish fair on chicken liver, cut bait and shad along creek channels. Report submitted by Jay Harvey, game warden stationed in Atoka County.
Murray: May 12. Elevation above normal, water 71 and stained. Largemouth bass fair on jigs, minnows and plastic baits along shallows. White bass and crappie good on minnows in the main lake. Report submitted by Jaylen Flynn, game warden stationed in Carter County.
Pine Creek: May 8. Elevation normal, water clear. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/PINE.lakepage.html. Largemouth bass good on crankbaits, jerk baits and topwater lures along creek channels and in coves. Channel catfish excellent on chicken liver, stinkbait and worms below the dam. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
Robert S. Kerr: May 8. Elevation normal, water cool and murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/webdata/gagedata/KERO2.current.html. Largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass good on buzz baits, crankbaits, in-line spinnerbaits, jigs, plastic baits, small lures and spoons around brush structure, docks, points, rocks, shorelines, standing timber, weed beds and in coves. Blue, channel and flathead catfish good on chicken liver, cut bait, dough bait, live bait, live shad, PowerBait and worms below the dam, along channels, main lake, river mouth, shallows, tailwater and in coves. Crappie good on goldfish, grubs, jigs, minnows, small lures and worms below the dam, around brush structure, docks, rocks, shallows, shorelines, tailwater and weed beds. Report submitted by Logan Shimp, game warden stationed in Haskell County.
Sardis: May 8. Elevation above normal, water 69. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/SARD.lakepage.html. Largemouth and spotted bass fair on buzz baits, crankbaits, jigs, plastic baits, spinnerbaits and topwater lures around brush structure, points, riprap, rocks, shorelines, standing timber and weed beds. Blue, channel and flathead catfish fair on cut bait, shad and sunfish along channels, flats, main lake and shorelines. Crappie fair on jigs, minnows and tube jigs around brush structure, shorelines and standing timber. Report submitted by Dane Polk, game warden stationed in Pushmataha County.
Texoma: May 8. Elevation normal, water 63. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/DENI.lakepage.html. White bass good on grubs, jigs, live bait, minnows and tube jigs along creek channels, shallows and shorelines. Blue catfish good on cut bait and shad in the main lake, around points and shallows. Catfish anglers should focus on windblown banks where bait is present. Striped bass good on live shad and sassy shad along flats, main lake river mouth and shallows. Striper fishing is picking up greatly on the lake, lots of good box fish being caught on live shad and sassy shad. Anglers should look for striper near Platter Flats and the islands. Striper have been schooling near the shoreline on spawning shad. Crappie fishing is hit or miss depending on the day. Some crappie are being caught in shallow water but most are being caught in 10-14 ft. of water on structure. The jig colors that are producing bites contain blue/white/clear. Report submitted by Trey Hale, game warden stationed in Marshall County.
Wister: May 8. Elevation above normal, water 72 and cloudy. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/WIST.lakepage.html. Largemouth and spotted bass good on bill baits, buzz baits, crankbaits, plastic baits and spinnerbaits around brush structure, channels, points, shorelines and in coves. Blue and channel catfish good on chicken liver, crawfish, cut bait, shad and stinkbait below the dam, along channels, main lake and points. Crappie good on jigs, minnows and small lures below the dam, around brush structure, channels, standing timber and cedar brush. Report submitted by Thomas Gillham, game warden stationed in LeFlore County.
Southwest
Altus-Lugert: May 11. Elevation below normal, water lower 60s and clear. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/ALTU.lakepage.html. Crappie excellent on minnows and jigs along the dam, rocks and docks. Walleye and white bass slow on crankbaits, jerk baits, jigs and minnows along the dam, docks and rocks. Channel catfish excellent on crawfish, punch bait, stinkbait and worms below the dam, along flats, river channel and river mouth. Report submitted by Brandon Lehrman, game warden stationed in Greer County.
Ellsworth: May 10. Elevation above normal, water 66 and murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Geological Survey website at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/usa/nwis/uv?07308990. Blue and channel catfish fair on dough bait, punch bait and shad along channels and points. Crappie fair on jigs, minnows and tube jigs around brush structure and docks. Report submitted by Mike Carroll, game warden stationed in Comanche County.
Ft. Cobb: May 10. Elevation normal, water 60s and cloudy. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/FCOB.lakepage.html. Saugeye fair on minnows and jigs along channels and points. Report submitted by Brayden Hicks, game warden stationed in Caddo County.
Lawtonka: May 10. Elevation above normal, water 68 and clear. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/webdata/gagedata/LTKO2.current.html. Crappie fair on minnows, jigs and tube jigs around brush structure, discharge and rocks. Blue and channel catfish slow on chicken liver, cut bait and punch bait in the main lake and around points. Report submitted by Mike Carroll, game warden stationed in Comanche County.
Tom Steed: May 11. Elevation normal, water 65. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/TOMS.lakepage.html. Crappie good on minnows and jigs around brush structure, rocks and shorelines. White bass and Saugeye good crankbaits, jigs and trolling deep running lures in the main lake and around points. Blue and channel catfish good on cut bait, punch bait and shad around points and rocks. Report submitted by David Smith, game warden stationed in Kiowa County.
Waurika: May 11. Elevation above normal, water low 70s and cloudy. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/WAUR.lakepage.html. Crappie fair on jigs, minnows and tube jigs around brush structure, docks and rocks. Striped bass hybrids and white bass slow on sassy shad and shad along channels and shorelines. Walleye and saugeye fair on crankbaits and live bait along the dam, riprap and spillway. The spillway is still open behind the dam. Report submitted by Matt Farris, game warden stationed in Jefferson County.
Written by David Deaton
Southeast Area Fishing Report for April 25
Southeast
A service of the Oklahoma Wildlife Department
Arbuckle: April 25. Water 61 and muddy to stained due to recent rains. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/ARBU.lakepage.html. Bass good on spinnerbaits, flukes and soft plastics. Smallmouth bass being caught on grubs and square-billed crankbaits. Crappie good on jigs at 3-12 ft. along banks and fair on minnows and jigs. White bass good along flats in creeks. Report submitted by Jack Melton.
Blue River: April 28. Elevation above normal, water 62 and stained. For current elevation conditions go to the US Geological Survey website at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/ok/nwis/uv?site_no=07332390. Rainbow trout good on caddis flies, nymphs, PowerBait and spoon along channels, creek channels, river channel and rocks. Fly fishermen and women try tying on a tandem rig with a heavy double bead head nymph or stonefly with caddis or midge emerger above it. Really concentrate on getting the fly low in the water column as fast as possible. Try to access areas that are not right on the trail or road for best results. The heavy hitters for PowerBait this last week were garlic scented rainbow or chartreuse PowerBait. Lure fishermen did well with gold and black Panther Martins and copper Super Dupers. Largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass fair on crankbaits and jerk baits around brush structure, creek channels, rocks and shorelines. If you want to target bass species try throwing a small crawfish or bait fish colored crankbait around large boulders below falls and just above them. Report submitted by Ethan Lovelace, technician at the Blue River Public Fishing and Hunting Area.
Broken Bow: April 24. Elevation above normal, water 71. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/BROK.lakepage.html. Largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass good on crankbaits, flukes and spinnerbaits around points, shallows and standing timber. Crappie fair on minnows and jigs around brush structure and standing timber. Channel catfish fair on punch bait and worms along channels, river channel and in coves. Report submitted by Dru Polk, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
Eufaula: April 24. Elevation normal, water turbid. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/EUFA.lakepage.html. Crappie excellent on crickets, jigs, minnows and plastic baits below the dam, along creek channels, dam, points, rocks, shorelines, under bridges and culverts. Blue catfish excellent on cut bait, live bait, live shad, shad and worms below the dam and along the dam. White bass good on jerk baits and small lures below the dam, along creek channels, rocks and shorelines. Report submitted by Cannon Harrison, game warden stationed in McIntosh County.
Hugo: April 24. Elevation above normal, water 60 and murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/HUGO.lakepage.html. Blue, channel and flathead catfish excellent on chicken liver, cut bait, dough bait, live bait, punch bait, shad and sunfish below the dam, along channels, creek channels, main lake, river channel and shorelines. Crappie good on minnows and jigs below the dam, around brush structure, channels, creek channels, main lake, river channel, shorelines and standing timber. Report submitted by Andrew Potter, game warden stationed in Choctaw County.
Konawa: April 27. Elevation normal, water 71 and clear. Largemouth bass excellent on crankbaits and plastic baits in the main lake, around points and weed beds. Striped bass hybrids and white bass good on Alabama rigs, crankbaits and live shad in coves, discharge and river channel. Channel catfish good on chicken liver, cut bait, shad and shrimp in coves, inlet, along riprap and weed beds. Report submitted by Garret Harley, game warden stationed in Seminole County.
Lower Mountain Fork: April 24. Elevation normal, water clear. For current elevation conditions go to the US Geological Survey website at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/ok/nwis/uv?site_no=07339000. Rainbow trout excellent on PowerBait, tube jigs and worms along channels and spillway. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
McGee Creek: April 24. Elevation normal, water 64. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/MCGE.lakepage.html. Largemouth and spotted bass good on bill baits, crankbaits, flukes and spinnerbaits around brush structure, points, rocks and in coves. Crappie good on minnows and jigs along creek channels and standing timber. Report submitted by Jay Harvey, game warden stationed in Atoka County.
Murray: April 28. Elevation above normal, water 66 and clear. Largemouth bass good on crankbaits, jigs and plastic baits around brush structure and shallows. Report submitted by Jaylen Flynn, game warden stationed in Carter County.
Pine Creek: April 24. Elevation normal, water clear. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/PINE.lakepage.html. Crappie good on minnows and jigs around brush structure. Largemouth bass good on Alabama rigs, crankbaits and spinnerbaits along creek channels and in coves. Channel catfish good on cut bait and hotdogs along creek channels, main lake and shallows. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
Robert S. Kerr: April 24. Elevation normal, water murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/webdata/gagedata/KERO2.current.html. Largemouth and spotted bass good on Alabama rigs, bill baits, lipless baits, plastic baits and spinnerbaits around brush structure, main lake, shallows, shorelines, standing timber and in coves. Blue, channel and flathead catfish good on cut bait, dough bait, shad and stinkbait along flats, inlet, river channel and river mouth. Crappie fair on minnows and jigs along shorelines and weed beds. Report submitted by Allen Couch, game warden stationed in Haskell County.
Sardis: April 25. Elevation above normal, water 62. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/SARD.lakepage.html. Largemouth and spotted bass good on jigs, lipless baits, plastic baits and spinnerbaits around brush structure, points, riprap, rocks, shallows, shorelines, standing timber and weed beds. Blue, channel and flathead catfish fair on cut bait, shad and sunfish along flats, main lake and shorelines. Crappie fair on jigs, minnows and tube jigs around brush structure, shorelines, standing timber and weed beds. Report submitted by Dane Polk, game warden stationed in Pushmataha County.
Texoma: April 24. Elevation normal, water 60 and muddy. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/DENI.lakepage.html. Striped bass good on live shad and sassy shad in the main lake and around points. Striper fishing has been hit or miss from day to day. Most striped bass are being caught near Soldier Creek and the surrounding area. Blue catfish fair on cut bait, live bait, live shad and shad along flats, river channel, river mouth and shorelines. Blue cats are being caught on shad along windy banks. Crappie good on jigs, live bait, minnows and tube jigs around brush structure and docks. Crappie are beginning to move up on the banks and are being caught in 10-12 ft. of water but still not going full bore yet. Report submitted by Trey Hale, game warden stationed in Marshall County.
Wister: April 24. Elevation above normal, water 63 and cloudy. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/WIST.lakepage.html. Largemouth and spotted bass good on bill baits, buzz baits, plastic baits, spinnerbaits and topwater lures around brush structure, points, shallows and shorelines. Blue and channel catfish good on chicken liver, crawfish, crickets, cut bait, hotdogs, shrimp and stinkbait below the dam, around brush structure, channels, main lake and points. Crappie good on jigs, minnows and small lures below the dam, around brush structure, points, shorelines and cedar brush. Report submitted by Thomas Gillham, game warden stationed in LeFlore County.
Written by David Deaton
CASC Preparing for Annual Vike Hike, Registration Now Open
Press release
Carl Albert State College is getting ready for the 13th Annual Vike Hike! The Vike Hike is a half marathon and 5K run that benefits the CASC Scholarship Fund. This year’s Vike Hike is scheduled for Saturday, March 28th, 2020. The half marathon will kick off at 7 am, and the 5K run will begin at 9 am. All north-bound lanes of the Poteau bypass will be closed to traffic during the Vike Hike. Online registration is now available at www.runsignup.com.
Scholarships are available annually for many students who require financial assistance to attend college and have demonstrated above average skills and abilities. A Scholarship Committee is responsible for the selection of students to receive scholarships. Most scholarships are awarded on the basis of financial need; others are awarded for academic achievement or other significant contributions to the College. The Scholarship Application is NOW OPEN for the 2020/2021 Academic Year. The deadline to submit an application is March 1, 2020.
Carl Albert State College offers students a world-class education at an affordable price. CASC has been voted the Best Community College in Oklahoma; currently standing at No. 11 in the Nation for graduation rates among community colleges; and offers the most affordable tuition and fees in the region. The main campus is located in Poteau, with a branch campus in Sallisaw, and the college offers eight degrees and three certificate programs completely online.
Carl Albert State College is proud to carry out its mission to provide affordable, accessible and exceptional education that fosters student success.
Written by David Deaton
Southeast area lakes Fishing Report for February 12, 2020
A service of the Oklahoma Wildlife Department
Arbuckle: February 8. Elevation above normal, water 47 and clear to stained up creeks. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/ARBU.lakepage.html. Bass slow on Alabama rigs, shaky heads and bass jigs. White bass being caught on spoons at 45-55 ft. near the dam. Crappie good on spoons and jigs at 55 ft. Report submitted by Jack Melton.
Broken Bow: February 7. Elevation rising, water 49. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/BROK.lakepage.html. Largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass fair on crankbaits and spoons around points. Crappie fair on jigs, minnows and spoons around brush structure, points and standing timber. Report submitted by Dru Polk, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
Eufaula: February 7. Elevation above normal, water murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/EUFA.lakepage.html. Blue and channel catfish good on cut bait, live shad and shad around river mouth, rocks, sand bar, shallows and shorelines. Crappie fair on jigs and minnows at 12 ft. in coves and main lake. Striped bass fair on jigs, plastics and shrimp around dam, discharge, main lake and standing timber. Report submitted by Cannon Harrison, game warden stationed in McIntosh County.
Hugo: February 7. Elevation above normal, water 51 and murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/HUGO.lakepage.html. Blue, channel and flathead catfish good on cut bait, dough bait, live bait, shad, stinkbait and sunfish below the dam, around channels, main lake, river channel and shorelines. Crappie good on jigs and minnows below the dam, around brush structure, channels, main lake, river channel and standing timber. Report submitted by Andrew Potter, game warden stationed in Choctaw County.
Konawa: February 8. Elevation normal, water 51 and clear. Largemouth bass good on Alabama rigs, crankbaits, lipless baits and plastic baits in the main lake, river channel and along weed beds. Report submitted by Garret Harley, game warden stationed in Seminole County.
Lower Mountain Fork: February 7. Elevation normal, water clear. For current elevation conditions go to the US Geological Survey website at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/ok/nwis/uv?site_no=07339000. Rainbow trout good on caddis flies, PowerBait and salmon eggs around creek channels and spillway. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
McGee Creek: February 7. Elevation above normal, water 53. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/MCGE.lakepage.html. Largemouth and spotted bass slow on crankbaits, flukes, grubs and plastics around channels, flats, points and standing timber. Crappie and white bass slow on minnows around channels, creek channels, river channel and standing timber. Report submitted by Jay Harvey, game warden stationed in Atoka County.
Pine Creek: February 7. Elevation above normal, water clear. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/PINE.lakepage.html. Largemouth bass good on plastics and spoons around channels and points. Crappie good on jigs and spoons around brush structure. Channel catfish fair on cut bait punch bait around main lake and river channel. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
Robert S. Kerr: February 9. Elevation normal, water murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/webdata/gagedata/KERO2.current.html. Blue and channel catfish good on cut bait, dough bait, shad and stinkbait around inlet, main lake, river channel and river mouth. Crappie fair on hair jigs, jigs and minnows around creek channels and inlet. Report submitted by Allen Couch, game warden stationed in Haskell County.
Sardis: February 6. Elevation above normal, water 49. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/SARD.lakepage.html. Largemouth and spotted bass fair on crankbaits, jigs, plastics, spinnerbaits and tube jigs around brush structure, channels, points, riprap, standing timber and weed beds. Blue and channel catfish fair on cut bait and shad around channels, flats, main lake and shorelines. Crappie fair on hair jigs, minnows and tube jigs around brush structure, points, shorelines and standing timber. Report submitted by Dane Polk, game warden stationed in Pushmataha County.
Texoma: February 7. Elevation normal, water 49 and muddy. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/DENI.lakepage.html. Striped bass fair on live shad, plastics and sassy shad below the dam and around main lake, river channel and river mouth. Striper fishing is still tough but is slowly picking up speed and getting better. Anglers targeting striped bass should fish the west end of the lake near Willis. Live bait and dead-sticking have been productive methods. Recent information from ODWC fisheries division showed good numbers of healthy striped bass from 18-26 inches so spring fishing should be great. Blue catfish good on cut bait and shad below the dam, around river channel and river mouth. Blue cats are still being caught by jug lining with fresh-caught bait and bigger baits are producing bigger fish. Report submitted by Trey Hale, game warden stationed in Marshall County.
Wister: February 7. Elevation above normal, water cloudy. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/WIST.lakepage.html. Largemouth and spotted bass good on bill baits, crankbaits, plastics and spinnerbaits around channels, coves, points and shorelines. Blue and channel catfish good on chicken liver, cut bait, hot dogs, shad and stinkbait below the dam, around main lake, points and standing timber. Crappie good on jigs and minnows below the dam, around brush structure, channels, points, standing timber and cedar brush. Report submitted by Thomas Gillham, game warden stationed in LeFlore County.
Written by David Deaton
SOUTHEAST AREA FISHING REPORT FEB 6TH
Arbuckle: February 1. Elevation normal, water 47-51 and clear. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/ARBU.lakepage.html. Crappie good on spoons and jigs near the dam. White bass good jigging spoons. All bass species are slow with a few being caught on jerk baits. Report submitted by Jack Melton.
Broken Bow: January 31. Elevation 1 1/2 ft. above normal, water 49. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/BROK.lakepage.html.Largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass fair on crankbaits and spoons around brush structure, main lake and points. Channel, blue and flathead catfish fair on cut bait, punch bait and worms along channels and in coves. Report submitted by Dru Polk, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
Eufaula: January 31. Elevation above normal, water turbid. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/EUFA.lakepage.html.Blue and channel catfish excellent on live bait, live shad, shad and worms along the river mouth, rocks and shallows. White bass fair on jigs, minnows and small lures along the dam main lake in deep water. Crappie good on minnows and jigs in coves, around docks and main lake. Report submitted by Cannon Harrison, game warden stationed in McIntosh County.
Hugo: January 31. Elevation above normal, water 56 and murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/HUGO.lakepage.html. Blue, channel and flathead catfish good on cut bait, dough bait, live bait, shad and sunfish below the dam, along channels, main lake and river channel. Crappie good on minnows and jigs below the dam, around brush structure, main lake, river channel and standing timber. Report submitted by Andrew Potter, game warden stationed in Choctaw County.
Konawa: February 6. Elevation normal, water 51 and clear. Largemouth bass good on Alabama rigs, crankbaits, lipless baits and plastic baits in the main lake, river channel and along weed beds. Striped bass hybrids and white bass fair on Alabama rigs, crankbaits and live shad in coves, discharge and river channel. Channel catfish slow on chicken liver and stinkbait along creek channels, discharge and weed beds. Report submitted by Garret Harley, game warden stationed in Seminole County.
Lower Mountain Fork: January 31. Elevation normal, water clear. For current elevation conditions go to the US Geological Survey website at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/ok/nwis/uv?site_no=07339000.Trout good on caddis flies, plastic baits, PowerBait, small lures and tube jigs below the dam, along the river channel, shallows and spillway. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
McGee Creek: Elevation 31. Elevation above normal, water 53. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/MCGE.lakepage.html.Largemouth and smallmouth bass fair on bill baits, crankbaits, grubs and jigs around brush structure, flats, points and rocks. Crappie slow on minnows along creek channels and standing timber. Report submitted by Jay Harvey, game warden stationed in Atoka County.
Pine Creek: January 31. Elevation above normal, water clear. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/PINE.lakepage.html. Largemouth bass fair on crankbaits and spoons along creek channels and points. Crappie good on jigs around brush structure. Channel catfish fair on cut bait, stinkbait and worms along creek channels and river channel. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
Robert S. Kerr: January 31. Elevation normal, water murky. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/webdata/gagedata/KERO2.current.html. Largemouth and spotted bass fair on jigs and rogues in coves, along creek channels and river channel. Blue and channel catfish good on cut bait and shad along channels, creek channels, river channel and river mouth. Crappie fair on jigs and minnows around brush structure, creek channels, river channel and river mouth. Report submitted by Allen Couch, game warden stationed in Haskell County.
Texoma: January 31. Elevation above normal, water 51 and murky. Lake levels are high due to recent rainfall and water is muddy near the mouth of Washita River and Red River. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/DENI.lakepage.html. Texoma fishing has been slow the last couple of weeks. Blue catfish good on cut bait and shad in the main lake, river channel and river mouth. Blue cats are biting large cut bait and best areas are near the mouths of Washita and Red River. Juglining is good in 50 ft. of water and fresh caught bait is the ticket for success while juging. Striped bass fair on flukes, live shad, plastic baits and sassy shad below the dam, main lake, river channel and tailwater. Striped Bass are being caught on sassy shad and live baits. Anglers should focus ledges and retrieve the bait swimming uphill on the ledge keeping it close to bottom as possible. Report submitted by Trey Hale, game warden stationed in Marshall County.
Wister: January 31. Elevation above normal, water cloudy. For current elevation conditions go to the US Army Corps of Engineers website at https://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/WIST.lakepage.html. Largemouth and spotted bass good on bill baits, crankbaits, plastic baits and spinnerbaits around brush structure, channels, in coves, points and shorelines. Blue and channel catfish good on chicken liver, cut bait, hotdogs, shad and stinkbait below the dam, around brush structure, channels, main lake and points. Crappie good on minnows and jigs below the dam, around brush structure, channels, points, standing timber and cedar tree structure. Report submitted by Thomas Gillham, game warden stationed in LeFlore County.
Written by David Deaton
CASC Preparing for Annual Vike Hike, Registration Now Open
Carl Albert State College is gearing up for the 13th Annual Vike Hike! The Vike Hike is a half marathon and 5K run benefiting the CASC Scholarship Fund. This year’s Vike Hike is scheduled for Saturday, March 28th, 2020. The half marathon will kick off at 7 am, and the 5K run will begin at 9 am. All northbound lanes of the Poteau bypass will be closed to traffic during the event. Online registration is available at www.runsignup.com.
Scholarships are available annually for many students who require financial assistance to attend college and have demonstrated above average skills and abilities. A Scholarship Committee is responsible for the selection of students to receive scholarships. Most scholarships are awarded on the basis of financial need; others are awarded for academic achievement or other significant contributions to the College. The Scholarship Application is NOW OPEN for the 2020/2021 Academic Year. The deadline to submit application is March 1, 2020.
Carl Albert State College offers students a world-class education at an affordable price. CASC has been voted the Best Community College in Oklahoma; currently stands as No. 11 in the Nation for graduation rates among community colleges; and offers the most affordable tuition and fees in the region. The main campus is in Poteau, with a branch campus in Sallisaw, and the college offers eight degrees and three certificate programs completely online.
The Poteau campus offers residential living opportunities for students who wish to have the full college experience, and participate in many campus clubs, activities, and a variety of intramural games. Viking athletics include baseball, softball, men’s and women’s cross country, and E-Sports teams. CASC is home to individuals from all walks of life. For every CASC student, including the working adult with other commitments —day, evening, and online courses are offered to fit your busy schedule. Whether you’re planning to live on campus, commute, or earn your degree online – CASC meets students’ needs in an efficient, effective, and economical manner. Carl Albert provides excellent educational opportunities for students whether they desire to go straight to work following graduation, or plan to transfer to further their educational career.
Carl Albert State College is proud to carry out its mission to provide affordable, accessible and exceptional education that fosters student success.
Written by David Deaton
Area Lakes report for Jan 2, 2020
SOUTHEAST AREA LAKE REPORT
Broken Bow: December 28. Elevation normal, water 54. Largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass good on crankbaits and spoons around main lake and points. Channel catfish fair on chicken liver, punch bait, and worms around channels, coves, and points. Report submitted by Dru Polk, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
Eufaula: December 27. Elevation normal, water 47 and murky. Black and white crappie excellent on jigs and minnows below and around the dam and docks. Blue catfish good on live shad, punch bait, and stinkbait below the dam, and around dam, discharge, and main lake. Striped bass excellent on plastics, slabs, and small lures below and around the dam. Report submitted by Cannon Harrison, game warden stationed in McIntosh County.
Hugo: December 27. Elevation below average, water 52 and murky. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish good on chicken liver, cut bait, dough bait, live bait, shad, and sunfish below the dam, and around channels, main lake, river channel, and shorelines. Black and white crappie fair on jigs and minnows below the dam, and around brush structure, main lake, river channel, and standing timber. Report submitted by Andrew Potter, game warden stationed in Choctaw County.
Konawa: December 26. Elevation normal, water 48 and clear. Largemouth bass good on Alabama rig, crankbaits, lipless baits, and plastics around river channel and weed beds. Striped hybrid bass and white bass fair on Alabama rig, crankbaits, and live shad around coves, main lake, and river channel. Channel catfish fair on chicken liver and stinkbait around coves, inlet, and weed beds. Report submitted by Garret Harley, game warden stationed in Seminole County.
Lower Mountain Fork: December 27. Elevation normal, water clear. Rainbow trout good on grubs, Powerbait, small lures, and tube jigs below the dam, and around channels and spillway. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
McGee Creek: December 27. Elevation normal, water 52. Largemouth and spotted bass fair on crankbaits, plastics, and drop shots around creek channels, points, and rocks. Report submitted by Jay Harvey, game warden stationed in Atoka County.
Pine Creek: December 27. Elevation normal, water clear. Largemouth bass good on spoons around points. Black crappie good on jigs and spoons around brush structure. Channel catfish fair on chicken liver, cut bait, and punch bait around creek channels and main lake. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County.
Robert S. Kerr: December 28. Elevation above average, water murky. Blue and channel catfish good on cut bait, dough bait, shad, and stinkbait around channels, creek channels, inlet, river channel, and river mouth. White crappie and white bass good on hair jigs, jigs, and minnows around channels, creek channels, inlet, and standing timber. Report submitted by Allen Couch, game warden stationed in Haskell County.
Texoma: December 27. Elevation normal, water 50. Striped bass good on flukes and live shad around main lake and points. Blue catfish fair on cut bait, live bait, and shad around main lake, points, and shallows. Black crappie slow on jigs, minnows, and tube jigs around brush structure and docks. Striper fishing has been hit or miss the past week with some days being better than others. Live bait has been the most reliable method to catch stripers. Dead-sticking works some days and not others. With tons of bait in the lake, quality of fish is great right now. Blue catfish are biting well on cut shad or whole shad on shallow flats. Jug lining is a good way to catch blues as well. Crappie have not been biting well the past week. Report submitted by Trey Hale, game warden stationed in Bryan County.
Wister: December 27. Elevation above average, water cloudy. Largemouth and spotted bass good on bill baits, crankbaits, plastics, and spinnerbait around brush structure, channels, coves, points, and standing timber. Blue and channel catfish good on chicken liver, cut bait, hot dogs, and stinkbait below the dam, and around brush structure, channels, main lake, and points. White and black crappie good on jigs and minnows below the dam, and around brush structure, channels, points, and cedar brush. Report submitted by Thomas Gillham, game warden stationed in Le Flore County.
Written by Donna Deaton
Wister Teachers Receive Grant
Wister Public Schools teachers George and Paula Midgley applied for and were selected to receive a Fund for Teachers (FFT) Grant last spring. Only 27 FTF grant proposals were awarded in the whole state of Oklahoma and the Midgleys were the only teachers from small, rural schools to receive one. They used the grant to explore the Chisholm Trail and learn about open range cast iron cooking and food preparation during the cattle drives. They completed their expedition over the summer. The $9163 grant funded their trip over the Chisholm Trail, lodging and sigh-seeing plus all their expenses traveling to and staying at the chuck wagon cooking school in Montana.
Mrs. Midgley posted on her blog about their exploration: “George had the idea to plan a road trip that spanned the entire stretch of the Chisholm Trail. He wanted to learn intricate details from museums, placards, and experts, plus get the opportunity to see historic landmarks in person and stand on the very grounds that millions of cattle and hundreds of cowboys (and cowgirls) traversed on the trek from San Antonio, Texas to Abilene, Kansas. Since my husband is a middle school social studies teacher, this is an era covered in his textbooks so he was particularly interested in learning more about it. As a Family and Consumer Science (used to be called Home Ec) teacher, I was interested in learning about open range cast iron cooking and food preparation methods used during the cattle drive days; therefore, we put our two subject areas together to plan a cross-curricular learning expedition.”
To read Mrs. Midgley’s blog and find out more about their adventures, check out https://thechisholmtrailexpedition.blogspot.com/2019/05/trial-post.html?spref=fb&fbclid=IwAR10GsWhjB_MsMtNjkQketMbRR5ccChBAGuC2FsrY_Ne70deX9f7tCu7fIA.
Photos below were selected from those Mrs. Midgley posted on her blog (linked above).
Written by David Deaton
Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department to Celebrate New Year with First Day Hikes Across State on Jan. 1
Press release from Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department
OKLAHOMA CITY — In keeping with an annual tradition, Oklahoma State Parks will again host First Day Hikes on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020. The free, guided hikes present an opportunity to begin the new year on a healthy perspective by getting outdoors, connecting with nature and promoting year-round recreation.
“The First Day Hikes continue to be a great resource for our guests and state park personnel to gather in the fresh air and beautiful surroundings of the parks,” said Oklahoma State Parks Director Kris Marek. “We enjoy making new friends and meeting those who come to the state parks for this event.”
Nineteen state parks will host hikes on New Year’s Day. Park staff and volunteers will lead the free hikes. For information on the individual parks, visit TravelOK.com.
First Day Hikes will be held in the following Oklahoma State Parks:
Southeastern Oklahoma
Arrowhead Area at Lake Eufaula State Park, Canadian: Meet at the park office at 10 a.m. for a moderate, 1/2-mile hike on the Trivia Trail. 918-339-2204
Beavers Bend State Park, Broken Bow: Meet at 11 a.m. at the Forest Heritage Center for an easy, 1-mile hike along the Forest Heritage Center Tree Trail. 580-494-6300
Lake Eufaula State Park, Eufaula: Meet at 10 a.m. at the Visitor Center for an easy, 1.5 mile hike on the Chinkapin Trail. 918-689-5311
Robbers Cave State Park, Wilburton: Two separate hikes will be held simultaneously. Meet at Community Room #1 at 9:30 a.m. and choose from two different hikes. The moderate-to-strenuous Mountain Trail is three miles long and will take approximately 2 hours to complete. The 1-mile Outdoor Classroom hike will take approximately 45 minutes. 918-465-2565
McGee Creek State Park, Atoka: Meet at 1 p.m. at T-Hill in the park for an easy, 1.4-mile walk through the Potapo Campground. 580-889-5822
Southern and Central Oklahoma
Lake Murray State Park, Ardmore: Meet at the Nature Center at 11 a.m. for an easy-to-moderate, 1.5-mile hike along the Nature Center Loop. 580-223-4044
Lake Thunderbird State Park, Norman: Meet at 11 a.m. at the Discovery Cove Nature Center for three different hikes. The first will take guests on the Nature Trail while the second will take guests on a paved, accessible trail. The third hike is across the dam. 405-360-3572.
Western Oklahoma
Alabaster Caverns State Park, Freedom: Meet at the park office at 10 a.m. for an easy, 1/2-mile hike on the cavern trail. 580-621-3381
Boiling Springs State Park, Woodward: Meet at 2 p.m. at the trailhead of the Scout Trail for a moderate, 1-mile hike. 580-256-7664
Fort Cobb State Park, Fort Cobb: Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Eagles’ Nest Pavilion at CS2530 and Eagle View Road for a moderate, 3-mile hike on the Western Oaks Heart Healthy Trail. 405-643-2249
Foss State Park, Foss: Meet at the Cedar Point shelter at 2 p.m. for a moderate, 2-mile hike on the Great Western Trail. 580-592-4433
Great Plains State Park, Mountain Park: Meet at the park office at 10 a.m. for a moderate, 5-mile hike on the Healthy Heart and Nature Trail. 580-569-2032
Roman Nose State Park, Watonga: Meet at noon in the lodge lobby for a moderate, 3-mile hike to Inspiration Point. 800-892-8690.
Northeastern Oklahoma
Keystone State Park, Mannford: Meet at the park office. The first hike begins at 12:01 a.m., and the second begins at 10:30 a.m. The moderate, 1.25-mile hikes will be held on the Rangers Pass Trail. Afterwards, hikers can enjoy coffee and hot chocolate. 918-865-4991
Osage Hills State Park, Pawhuska: Meet at the ball field at midnight for the first hike. A second hike will be held at 1 p.m. The easy, 1-mile hikes will be along the Creek Loop Trail. 918-336-5635
Bernice Area at Grand Lake State Park, Bernice: Meet at 11 a.m. at the nature center for an easy, 1-mile hike along the paved Heart Healthy Trail. 918-257-8330.
Grand Cherokee Golf Course at Grand Lake State Park, Langley: Meet at 2 p.m. at the pro shop for an easy, 2.2-mile walk along the paved cart path below the Pensacola Dam. 918-435-8727
Greenleaf State Park, Braggs: Meet at 10 a.m. at the park office for an easy, 1-mile hike along the paved Family Fun Trail. 918-487-5196
Sequoyah State Park, Hulbert: Two different hikes are scheduled. The 11:30 a.m. hike is an easy, 1-mile hike. The 1:30 p.m. hike is a moderate, 2-mile hike. Following each event, participants are invited to enjoy warm refreshments at Three Forks Nature Center. Bring your own mug and help us reduce waste! 918-772-2108.
Hikers should remember to wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes. Bring a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing, and don’t forget water and snacks. Pets on leash are welcome at most hikes. Participating Oklahoma State Parks are offering hot chocolate and warm beverages after completion of the hikes and encourage visitors to stay and explore other areas or enjoy the quiet beauty of the parks in the wintertime.
In the event of inclement weather, information about cancellation of hikes will be available by calling the state park listed or checking Facebook.com/OklahomaStateParks.
Written by David Deaton
Southeast Area Lakes Fishing Report for Dec 4, 2019
Arbuckle: December 2. Elevation 1 1/3 ft. above normal. White crappie good on slab spoons at 35 ft. and along drop-off ledges. Water stained up creeks and clear near the dam. Bass good on shakey head worms, crankbaits and jerk baits at 23-33 ft. along ledges. Bluegill good off Guy Sandy dock. Report submitted by Jack Melton. Broken Bow: November 29. Elevation above normal, water 61. Largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass fair on crankbaits around brush structure and points. Crappie fair on jigs, minnows, and spoons around brush structure and standing timber. Report submitted by Dru Polk, game warden stationed in McCurtain County. Eufaula: November 29. Elevation above normal, water murky. Channel and blue catfish fair on worms around river channel. Crappie fair on minnows and tube jigs around brush structure and standing timber. Report submitted by Jake Bersche, game warden stationed in McIntosh County. Hugo: November 29. Elevation above normal, water 56 and murky. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish good on chicken liver, cut bait, dough bait, live bait, shad, stinkbait, and sunfish below the dam, and around channels, main lake, river channel, and shorelines. Crappie fair on jigs and minnows below the dam, and around brush structure, creek channels, main lake, river channel, and standing timber. Report submitted by Andrew Potter, game warden stationed in Choctaw County. Konawa: November 28. Elevation normal, water 51 and clear. Largemouth bass good on Alabama rig, crankbaits, lipless baits, and plastics around the main lake, points, river channel, and weed beds. Striped hybrid bass and white bass fair on Alabama rig, crankbaits, and live shad around coves, main lake, and river channel. Channel catfish good on chicken liver and stinkbait around coves, creek channels, inlet, and weed beds. Report submitted by Garret Harley, game warden stationed in Seminole County. Lower mountain Fork: November 29. Elevation normal, water clear. Rainbow trout good on PowerBait, tube jigs, and worms around channels, rocks, and spillway. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County. McGee Creek: November 29. Elevation above normal, water 57. Largemouth and spotted bass slow on crankbaits and plastics around channels, points, and standing timber. Crappie slow on minnows around creek channels, river channel, and standing timber. Report submitted by Jay Harvey, game warden stationed in Atoka County. Pine Creek: November 29. Elevation above normal, water murky. Largemouth bass fair on jigs and spoons around channels and points. Crappie good on jigs, minnows, and spoons around brush structure. Channel catfish fair on chicken liver, cut bait, and hot dogs around the main lake. Report submitted by Mark Hannah, game warden stationed in McCurtain County. Robert S. Kerr: November 30. Elevation above normal, water murky. Blue and channel catfish good on cut bait, dough bait, punch bait, shad, and stinkbait around channels, creek channels, flats, inlet, main lake, river channel, and river mouth. Report submitted by Allen Couch, game warden stationed in Haskell County. Sardis: November 27. Elevation above normal, water 52. Largemouth and spotted bass fair on bill baits, crankbaits, jigs, plastics, and spinnerbaits around brush structure, creek channels, points, rocks, shorelines, and standing timber. Blue and channel catfish fair on cut bait and shad around channels, creek channels, flats, and main lake. Crappie fair on hair jigs, jigs, and minnows around brush structure, points, and standing timber. Report submitted by Dane Polk, game warden stationed in Pushmataha County. Texoma: November 29. Elevation rising, water 58. Striped and white bass good on flukes, live shad, and sassy shad around flats, main lake, and points. Crappie fair on jigs and minnows around brush structure and docks. Flathead catfish fair on live bait around main lake and points. Texoma winter fishing patterns are here. Jug lining has been good on the lake using shad but if anglers want to target flatheads live bait is the ticket. Striped bass are biting live shad as well as dead sticking. Anglers should look for active birds and target that area. Colors included pink, white and clear glitter. Crappie have been biting on nice weather days below docks where structure is present. Seeing most crappie caught on jigs that have some variation of hot pink included. 20ft of water and up seems to hold feeding crappie. Report submitted by Trey Hale, game warden stationed in Bryan County. Wister: November 29. Elevation above normal, water cloudy. Largemouth and spotted bass good on bill baits, crankbaits, plastics, and spinnerbaits around brush structure, channels, coves, points, and shorelines. Blue and channel catfish good on chicken liver, cut bait, punch bait, and stinkbait below the dam, and around channels, main lake, points, and standing timber. Crappie good on jigs and minnows below the dam, and around brush structure, channels, docks, points, shorelines, and cedar tree structure. Report submitted by Thomas Gillham, game warden stationed in LeFlore County.