Pixtus - Photography Forum, Photographers, Photo Tips

Russell · **Mountain Fork -** 07-05-2011, 10:04 PM

Oklahoma and rainbow trout aren't always synonymous when I talk to fellow anglers. For trout, they say, I need to head to Colorado or Northern New Mexico. For this trip, however, we headed to Southeast Oklahoma. Broken Bow to be exact.

Broken Bow is an incredible community. Wedged between the Red River valley and the Kiamichi Mountains, the town deftly juggles the roles of being a culturally important area in the Choctaw territory, a mountain enclave that's a decidedly touristy vide, and a town whose Southern culture is apparent. It's definitely a cool mix.

While I was there to fish, I couldn't help but make mental notes of the numerous attractions that beckons me to return and bring my wife and kids. There's go-kart tracks, canoe rentals, mini-train rides, golf, some interesting museums, swimming, and beautiful mountain scenery that undoubtedly has wildlife and hiking trails galore. I'll go back again soon but now the fish await.

I was joined on the weekend jaunt by fellow Childress, Texas anglers John Wilson and Silas Ragsdale and we picked my brother up along the way.

My mantra is that if I want to photograph a fish, I take Silas. He can catch fish anywhere and it wasn't long before he landed a nice rainbow trout from a rock strewn creek whose water was cold and swift. Lined in pine trees and hardwoods, this creek is reminiscent of mountain streams I've seen further north and west.

The streams are fed by the immense 22-mile long Broken Bow reservoir as water is released through the spillway or out of the dam for power generation. It's cold water makes the area suitable for both introduced and native populations of brown trout and rainbow trout.

We spent the rest of the day jumping back and forth to locations along the Mountain Fork River drainage and eventually retired to our river-side cabin. The term cabin, I discovered, is an understatement as the Thunderbird Lodge is as good accommodations as I've ever stayed.

With a full kitchen, living room, and two bedrooms, the lodge features self service accommodations that literally sits at the water's edge - and that's just the bottom part. While we stayed at the lodge, another family rented the top floor of the lodge but with a separate access, we would have never know they were there save for the porch visits with which we engaged.

We had a great time fishing in an area with rich scenery and natural beauty. The people and the food at the local restaurants was wonderful and the entire experience begs my return.