Fishing Kerr Lake

AKA: Kerr Reservoir, Robert S Kerr Reservoir

Most Popular Fish
Kerr Lake Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Robert S Kerr Reservoir, OK

Popular Fish Species Kerr Lake, OK

Crappie Fishing

When fishing for crappie, light line and small hooks are key when fishing live or prepared baits. Crappie jigs are also productive her in a wide variety of colors. With a history of good crappie fishing, Kerr Lake continues to impress crappie enthusiasts this year. The lake has healthy populations of both white crappie and black crappie. These two species typically tend to school separately. However, once located around cover, you may find that you catch both species, due to the fact they often share the same cover. Crappie fishing can be found in varying size schools, hanging around brush, vegetation, wood or other cover. Using a fish finder any time of year can help locate these crappie schools, which tend to stack vertically around cover. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels, especially areas with brush or timber in deeper water. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk.

Blue Catfish Fishing

This year blue catfish are running in the big to monster size in Kerr Lake. Most of the local guides offer catfish trips, and big blues are the favorite target. The state record is nearly 100 pounds. Fishing for blue catfish is most often productive during spring through summer around any kind of structure. Blue catfish are primarily found in large rivers, along the main channels, in and around tributaries flowing into impoundments of major river systems. They tend to move upstream in the summer in search of cooler temperatures, and downstream in the winter in order to find warmer water.The river end of the lake is often the area where the bigger catfish are caught. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with cut bait or other popular catfish baits. Channel and flathead catfish are also available here for anglers to pursue.

Striped Bass Fishing

Due to their large size, striped bass are a favorite of many locals and fishing guides at Kerr Lake. They are plentiful, run in schools and can grow to bragging size. In Spring and Fall work the upper end of the lake where water is flowing into the lake. Look for deeper water in the river channel, as a holding place for stripers. In Summer and Winter, stripers hang out in deeper water during the day Morning often draws the stripers to much shallower water, look for them from the surface down to around the 20-foot range as they feed on shallow-running schools of bait. The lake is filled with plenty of baitfish and sunfish to to keep the fishery thriving. Being successful at fishing for stripers is a matter of locating schools of bait, and the wolf packs of stripers which are likely to be nearby. Fish finders, and forward facing sonar, are a big help in locating these roaming schools. Live bait is very effective here, and stripers can be caught year round.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, blue catfish, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, green sunfish, redear sunfish, white bass, striped bass, paddlefish and sauger at Robert S Kerr Reservoir in Oklahoma.

Kerr Lake Fishing Video

Regarded as one of the top striper fishing lakes in Oklahoma, Kerr Lake - officially Robert S Kerr Reservoir, is an excellent place to catch a monster striped bass. In addition to stripers there are healthy populations of catfish, crappie, largemouth and spotted bass, white bass, paddlefish, sauger, bluegill and sunfish.

Kerr Lake, is a magnificent reservoir located in east-central Oklahoma. It is a highly sought-after destination for fishing enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Fishing at Kerr Lake is a popular activity, with its vast expanse offering a diverse range of fish species. Anglers can reel in striped bass, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, catfish, crappie, and sunfish. Whether you prefer fishing from the shoreline, casting from a boat, or trying your luck from a kayak, Kerr Lake provides ample opportunities for anglers of all levels to have a successful and exciting fishing experience.

Kerr Lake offers a perfect blend of fishing, boating, and camping experiences. Whether you're casting your line for your favorite fish species, cruising on the calm waters, or unwinding at a lakeside campsite, Kerr Lake provides a picturesque and serene destination for outdoor enthusiasts to embrace the natural beauty of the region and enjoy a truly memorable outdoor adventure.

Flathead catfish, blue catfish stripers and crappie receive the most attention of local anglers. The 44,000-acre lake is a literal fish factory making it an ideal destination for a quick fishing trip or an extended vacation.

Located in the east-central part of the state, at Sallisaw, OK, this reservoir provides 250 miles of shoreline for anglers to pursue their favorite fish species. Access to the shoreline for fishing from the bank, is available at dozens of locations around the lake, including at the wildlife refuge, five park areas, campgrounds and boat launch ramps. This is a good lake for pleasure boating and all types of fishing boats. However, be aware of the barge traffic! Keep out of their way and be safe. Canoes and kayaks are particularly susceptible to the tipping due to wakes from a barge. Kerr Lake has a marina, boat rentals, stores, restaurants and camping in the area.

Primary fish species residing in Robert S Kerr Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Robert S Kerr Reservoir Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is another major draw at Kerr Lake, thanks to its expansive waters and stunning landscapes. Boaters can explore the lake's vast surface, take in the breathtaking views, and engage in a variety of water-based activities. From leisurely cruises to thrilling water sports like water skiing and tubing, there are endless opportunities for boating enthusiasts to enjoy the lake to the fullest. With its ample space and well-maintained boat ramps, Kerr Lake provides a welcoming environment for boaters of all kinds.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Applegate Cove Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Applegate Cove Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Short Mountain Cove Boat Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Short Mountain Drive, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Sallisaw Creek Public Use Area Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, northeast side, off Dwight Mission Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Stoney Point Boat Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, north side, off N 4520 Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Stoney Point Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, north side, off N 4490 Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Vian Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off 4550 Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Fishing Guides On Kerr Lake

Prime Time Kerr Lake Fishing Guide Service - catfish, crappie, stripers

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Fishing License

Click here for a Oklahoma Fishing License.

Camping at Kerr Lake is a cherished experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility and natural beauty of the area. The lake features numerous campgrounds with various amenities to accommodate both tent and RV camping. Set up camp amidst the lush surroundings, enjoy evenings by the campfire, and wake up to the soothing sounds of nature. Campers can also take advantage of the lake's proximity by swimming, hiking, or simply relaxing by the shoreline. Kerr Lake's campgrounds provide a serene and inviting atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts to connect with nature and create unforgettable memories.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Lakeside RV Park & Campground - 918 775-7522

Sallisaw / Fort Smith West KOA Campground - 918 775-2792