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Oklahoma · Fishing
Stillwater's fishing scene is built around a handful of small reservoirs tucked into the creek drainages just outside town, and that low-key setup suits a certain kind of angler just fine.
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Stillwater's fishing scene is built around a handful of small reservoirs tucked into the creek drainages just outside town, and that low-key setup suits a certain kind of angler just fine. The three waters listed on Roamze here — Stillwater Creek Site 37 Reservoir, Stillwater Creek Site 39 Reservoir, and Longbranch Site 8 Reservoir — are all impoundments managed by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, the kind of spots that don't show up in fishing magazines but see steady pressure from locals who know what they're doing. These are lake-fishing setups, meaning you're working the banks or launching a small boat or kayak rather than wading a stream. Expect warm-water species typical of central Oklahoma: largemouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill are the bread-and-butter fish in reservoirs like these across Payne County. None of these waters carry a gold-medal or wild-trout designation, so manage expectations accordingly — this is solid community fishing, not a destination trophy hunt. The upside is that crowds are thin, access is generally straightforward, and you don't need to drive far from campus or downtown to wet a line.
Largemouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill are the most common warm-water species in small Oklahoma impoundments like Stillwater Creek Site 37, Site 39, and Longbranch Site 8. Crappie are also possible in reservoirs with adequate structure. None of these waters are designated trout fisheries, so don't plan around trout.
Yes. Any angler 16 or older needs a valid Oklahoma fishing license to fish public waters in the state, including these reservoirs. You can purchase one through the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation website or at local sporting goods retailers in Stillwater. Check the ODWC site for current fees and any Payne County-specific rules before you go.
Coon Creek
~1h 12m drive
A worthwhile stop near OK.
Stillwater Creek Site 39 Reservoir
~3 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OK.
Arcadia Lake East Ramp
~1h 7m drive
Easy
Sarge Creek
~1h 14m drive
A worthwhile stop near OK.
Stillwater Creek Site 37 Reservoir
~3 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OK.
Keystone Lake - Walnut Creek Cove
~1h 19m drive
Easy
Washunga Bay
~1h 15m drive
A worthwhile stop near OK.
Longbranch Site 8 Reservoir
~6 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OK.
Bear Creek Cove
~1h 19m drive
A worthwhile stop near OK.
Upper Black Bear Creek Site 70 Reservoir
~16 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OK.
Washington Irving South
~1h 23m drive
A worthwhile stop near OK.
Upper Black Bear Creek Site 67 Reservoir
~18 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OK.
Early morning and the last two hours before sunset are consistently the most productive windows for bass and catfish in Oklahoma's warm-water reservoirs, especially from late spring through summer when midday water temperatures push fish into deeper or shaded areas. In cooler months — October through March — midday can actually fish better as the water warms up.
These are small impoundments, so if boat access exists it's typically limited to hand-launch craft like kayaks, canoes, or small jon boats — not ramp-equipped facilities for trailered boats. Confirm current access conditions at each site before hauling gear out, as water levels and site maintenance can change seasonally.
Yes, small community reservoirs like these are well-suited to beginners. Bank fishing for bluegill and channel catfish requires minimal gear — a basic rod, bobber, and worm or prepared catfish bait will get you started. The sites are close to town, which makes a short outing practical without committing to a full-day trip.
