What Monkey Island Offers

Monkey Island is a 640-acre lake in Pittsburg County in southeastern Oklahoma, roughly 15 miles south of McAlester. It holds largemouth bass, catfish, and bluegill, with the bass fishery being the main draw. The lake sits on relatively flat terrain with wooded shorelines and shallow coves — typical habitat for warm-water species in this region. Water clarity varies by season; spring runoff can cloud the water, while late summer often brings clearer conditions.

The lake is managed by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and is open to the public year-round. Access is straightforward: a public boat ramp and parking area sit on the north shore, and the lake is small enough that you can reach most productive areas within 10 to 15 minutes of launching. There is no lodge, restaurant, or fuel dock on-site, so plan accordingly.

Key Takeaways

  • Monkey Island holds largemouth bass year-round, with spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) producing the most consistent catches.
  • A public boat ramp on the north shore is the only developed access point; bring your own fuel and supplies.
  • Oklahoma fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older, and bass are subject to a 14-inch minimum length limit with a daily bag of five fish.
  • Summer water temperatures can exceed 85 degrees, pushing bass into deeper water and making early morning or evening trips more productive.
  • The lake is shallow overall (average depth around 8 feet), so structure like fallen timber, brush piles, and the dam area hold fish year-round.

Seasons and What to Expect

Spring (March through May) is the most reliable season. Water temperatures climb from the 50s into the 70s, triggering the pre-spawn and spawn periods when bass move into shallower water and feed aggressively. Coves and the backs of bays warm first, making them prime targets early in the season. By late May, the spawn winds down and fish retreat to slightly deeper structure, but catches remain solid through the month.

Summer (June through August) is tougher. Daytime water temperatures often exceed 85 degrees, and bass move to the deepest available water — usually 12 to 18 feet near the dam or along the main channel. Early morning (before 8 a.m.) and evening (after 6 p.m.) trips produce better results than midday. Catfish bite well at night during summer, so if bass fishing slows, a night session with live bait or stink bait can be productive.

Fall (September through November) rivals spring in quality. As water cools back into the 70s and 60s, bass return to shallower structure and feed heavily in preparation for winter. October is often the best month. Winter (December through February) slows the bite considerably, but fish are still catchable in deeper holes and near the dam on warmer days.

Access and Facilities

The public boat ramp is located on the north shore, accessible via County Road 3480 south of McAlester. There is a paved ramp, a small parking area, and a vault toilet. No fuel, bait, or food is sold on-site. The nearest town with supplies is McAlester, about 15 miles north, where you will find gas stations, bait shops, and restaurants.

The lake is day-use only — there is no camping or overnight facilities at the lake itself. If you need lodging, McAlester has motels and hotels. The ramp is maintained year-round, though winter weather can occasionally make access difficult. Call the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation's McAlester office if you have questions about current conditions.

What Species Are Here and How to Fish Them

Largemouth bass are the primary target. They respond well to topwater lures early and late in the day, especially in spring and fall. Soft plastics (4- to 6-inch worms and creature baits) worked along structure produce year-round. Spinnerbaits and crankbaits are effective in spring when fish are active in shallower water. Focus on fallen timber, brush piles, and the transition zones between shallow coves and deeper water.

Catfish (channel and flathead) are abundant and often overlooked by bass anglers. They bite well on live bluegill, shad, or prepared stink bait, especially at night and in summer. Fish the dam area or deeper holes with a simple slip-sinker rig. A 20- to 30-pound catfish is not uncommon.

Bluegill and other panfish are plentiful in shallow coves and around vegetation. They bite readily on small jigs, crickets, or worms and are excellent for children or anglers looking for consistent action. Spring and early summer are peak times.

Regulations and Licensing

Oklahoma fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 years old and older. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license and is available online through the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation website or at most bait and tackle shops in the region. Bring proof of your license with you.

Largemouth bass have a 14-inch minimum length limit and a daily bag limit of five fish. Catfish have no minimum size and a daily bag of 25 fish. Bluegill and other panfish have no minimum size and a daily bag of 50 fish. These regulations are subject to change, so check the current Oklahoma fishing guide before you go.

Gear and Tackle to Bring

For bass, a medium-power spinning or baitcasting rod in the 6- to 7-foot range works well for most situations. Bring a mix of topwater lures, soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and crankbaits in natural colors (black, green, brown) and bright colors (chartreuse, white). A small tackle box with extra hooks, weights, and line is essential.

For catfish, a heavier rod (medium-heavy power) and 20- to 30-pound line handle the larger fish and structure. Simple slip-sinker rigs with circle hooks are standard. Bring a headlamp if you plan to fish at night. A net is useful for landing larger fish, and polarized sunglasses help you spot shallow-water structure during the day.

Nearby Towns and Services

McAlester, 15 miles north, is the closest town with full services. It has gas stations, grocery stores, and several bait and tackle shops that stock live bait and lures specific to the region. The town also has restaurants, motels, and a Walmart if you need to pick up forgotten items.

Krebs, a smaller town about 10 miles west, has a few local shops but fewer options than McAlester. If you are traveling from a distance, McAlester is your best bet for lodging and supplies before heading to the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to fish Monkey Island?

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are most consistent. Water temperatures in these seasons push bass into predictable shallow structure where they feed actively. Summer can be productive early and late in the day, but midday fishing is slow.

Do I need a boat to fish Monkey Island?

A boat is not required but is strongly recommended. The lake is 640 acres, and most productive structure is spread across the water. Bank fishing is possible in a few spots near the ramp, but you will have limited access to the best areas.

Can I keep fish I catch at Monkey Island?

Yes. Bass must be at least 14 inches long, and you can keep up to five per day. Catfish and panfish have no size restrictions and higher bag limits. Check the current Oklahoma fishing guide for any seasonal changes.

Is there a fee to launch a boat at Monkey Island?

There is no launch fee. The ramp is free and open to the public. Parking is also free, though space is limited on busy weekends.

What should I do if the water is muddy or stained?

Muddy water is common after heavy rain in spring. Bass rely more on vibration and smell in stained water, so switch to darker lures, spinnerbaits with larger blades, or live bait. Catfish actually bite better in murky water, so consider targeting them instead until clarity improves.