Your Fishing Guide at Eufaula Lake: Gear, Types of Fish, & Tournaments

Welcome to Eufaula Lake in Oklahoma—we have been expecting you! Now that you’re here, you must be wondering what the fishing scene looks like. What fishing gear should you bring? What types of fish can you expect? What tournaments can you compete in? Well, have no fear. Our guide to fishing on this beautiful lake will answer all your questions. 

Gear: Boat Rentals, Tackle Shops, and Equipment Needed

Having the right equipment is essential to make the most of your fishing trip on Lake Eufaula. Fortunately, several local businesses offer convenient boat rentals and a well-stocked tackle shop, ensuring you're fully prepared for a successful fishing adventure.

Boat Rentals

If you like fishing from a boat, there are plenty of places with boat slips, where you can rent one or bring your own. 

• Belle Star Marina: Pontoons and tritoons are available at this marina. Open Monday through Saturday, guests can seize the day and get going at 9 a.m. Customers say this marina makes for a great day of fishing with their friendly and welcoming staff. 
• Evergreen Marina: Open 7 days a week, this marina is located in Stigler. They have plenty of tritoons. One of the boats includes a deck with a slide so your kids can scare away the fish while they have fun. 
• Nine Marina: In addition to renting tritoons, this marina also sells new and used boats and will even repair your boat at the service center. If you are hungry or thirsty, they have Roja’s Taqueria & Cantina, which is open Thursday through Sunday. The marina is also open 7 days a week. 

Tackle Shops

Sometimes, you want to pack light. No worries, local tackle shops supply a wide range of fishing gear, bait, and tackle to ensure you're well-prepared in case you forget something. 

• Rusty Hook: This fishing store has some of the best ratings on Google. Customers say it has everything they need and that the owners are very knowledgeable, if you need any suggestions.
• OORAH Bait Shop: This bait shop is located in Longtown. It is owned by veterans, who customers say are very helpful to beginners who need fishing tips. 

Equipment

It might be helpful to make a checklist of the things you need to bring before you head out. When planning your fishing trip, consider packing the following equipment:

• Fishing Rod and Reel: A medium-heavy rod with a reliable reel is versatile for various species.
• Tackle: Include a selection of hooks, sinkers, bobbers, and lures.
• Bait: Live bait, such as minnows or worms, and artificial lures, like crankbaits and jigs.
• Safety Gear: Life jackets, first aid kit, and sunscreen. We don’t need you turning into fish food yourself.
• Fishing License: Ensure you have an up-to-date Oklahoma fishing license.

Types of Fish in Lake Eufaula

Lake Eufaula boasts a rich diversity of fish species, making it an angler's paradise. Many natives from Oklahoma come here because of the record-breaking fish caught here and in Onapa Lake. Some of the most sought-after species include:

• Largemouth Bass: Known for their size and fight, they are a favorite among sport fishermen.
• Crappie: Both black and white crappie are abundant, especially during spring spawning season.
• Catfish: Channel, blue, and flathead catfish thrive in these waters.
• White Bass: Often found in schools, providing fast-paced action.
• Sunfish: Species like bluegill and redear sunfish are plentiful and great for family fishing trips.
• Gar: Home to longnose gar and alligator gar, Lake Eufaula holds the current record for the largest longnose at 43 lbs 8 ounces.

Tournaments on the Lake

Lake Eufaula is a hotspot for fishing tournaments, attracting anglers from across the nation. In the past, the lake has hosted prestigious events such as the St. Croix Bassmaster Open and the MLF Bass Pro Tour, which showcase the lake's excellent fishing conditions. These tournaments allow anglers to test their skills and compete for substantial prizes.

Tournaments are typically scheduled from late February through early October. The official city of Eufaula, OK Facebook page typically posts a detailed schedule at the beginning of the year. Those interested in participating or spectating should register in advance, as spots can fill up quickly.