Oklahoma Wildlife Tours with Gone Fishin Guide

Quick Eco and Wildlife Tour in Oklahoma

Captain Marty Battles knows Oklahoma's waterways like the back of his hand, and his 2-hour eco tours give you a front-row seat to some of the state's best wildlife watching. Whether you're launching from New Mannford Ramp or Sooner Lake Recreation Area, this top-rated wildlife experience packs plenty of nature into a relaxed morning or afternoon on the water. Perfect for couples or small groups looking to disconnect and see what Oklahoma's lakes have to offer beyond the usual outdoor activities.

What to Expect on the Water

This isn't your typical rushed tour where you're checking your watch every few minutes. Captain Marty keeps things mellow and lets the wildlife set the pace. You'll cruise through prime viewing areas where the birds are most active, especially during those golden hours when the light hits the water just right. The boat accommodates up to 7 guests, but with only 2 spots available per trip, you get that intimate experience where Captain Marty can share local knowledge without shouting over a crowd. Multiple daily departures mean you can pick the time that works best for your schedule, whether you're an early bird or prefer a leisurely afternoon start. Don't worry about bringing snacks – this trip moves at a comfortable pace with plenty of opportunities to just sit back and watch the show nature puts on.

Gear and Locations

Captain Marty handles all the navigation while you focus on the scenery and wildlife spotting. The boat is equipped for comfort during those 2 hours on the water, and both launch points offer easy access with good parking. New Mannford Ramp connects you to the Arkansas River system, where the mix of moving and still water creates diverse habitat that attracts different species throughout the day. Sooner Lake Recreation Area gives you access to a more contained lake environment, perfect for spotting waterfowl and shore birds that prefer calmer conditions. Captain Marty chooses the best route based on seasonal patterns, weather conditions, and what's been active in recent days. Bring your camera, binoculars if you have them, and comfortable clothes that can handle a little lake breeze.

Oklahoma Lake Wildlife

The real stars of this show are the birds that call Oklahoma's lakes home year-round, plus the seasonal visitors that make pit stops during migration. Great Blue Herons are probably the most impressive – these massive wading birds stand motionless in the shallows before striking with lightning speed when a fish gets too close. They're active throughout the day but especially productive in early morning and late afternoon when small fish move into shallow water. Watch for their prehistoric flight pattern as they cruise between feeding spots with slow, powerful wingbeats. Bald Eagles have made a serious comeback in Oklahoma waters, and seeing one of these magnificent raptors snatch a fish from the surface never gets old. They're year-round residents but most active during cooler months when fish concentrate in predictable areas. Red-winged Blackbirds might seem common, but males put on quite a territorial display during breeding season, flashing those bright red shoulder patches while defending prime cattail real estate. Great Egrets work the same areas as herons but with more patience, moving slowly through shallow water in a methodical hunting pattern. Belted Kingfishers provide the entertainment with their distinctive rattling calls and dramatic diving techniques – they'll perch on overhanging branches before plunging headfirst after minnows. Double-crested Cormorants dive completely underwater and can stay submerged for surprisingly long periods, popping up yards away from where they disappeared. Oklahoma's lakes also attract seasonal waterfowl like various duck species, especially during fall and spring migration when the numbers can be impressive.

Book Your Wildlife Adventure

Captain Marty's eco tours give you that perfect taste of Oklahoma's natural side without requiring a full day commitment. The combination of his local expertise, comfortable pace, and prime wildlife viewing locations makes this a customer favorite for visitors and locals alike. Whether you're introducing kids to wildlife watching, looking for a peaceful break from city life, or just curious about what lives around Oklahoma's lakes, this 2-hour tour delivers genuine outdoor experiences that stick with you. Multiple daily trips mean you can easily work this into your schedule, and the small group size ensures everyone gets personal attention and the best viewing opportunities. Ready to see what Captain Marty and Oklahoma's wildlife have in store? This trending eco tour fills up quick, especially during peak wildlife activity seasons.