Help Us Protect Experiment Lake. Fish Crystal Beach in the Meantime.

As part of an ongoing effort to improve our community’s fishing resources, the City of Woodward recently stocked Crystal Beach Lake with healthy 3-5 inch bluegill. These fish will continue to support a fun and active local fishing scene, and we encourage anglers to take advantage of this accessible and growing fishery.

At the same time, we want to remind the public that fishing at Experiment Lake remains off-limits until summer 2026. The temporary closure began after the lake was refilled following construction of the new dam in 2023. The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) recommended the pause to allow newly stocked fish to establish strong populations, something that benefits every angler in the long run.

Since the project began, both the City of Woodward and the State of Oklahoma have worked steadily to reintroduce a variety of fish species to the lake:

• September 2023 – 1,505 12-inch catfish (ODWC)

• April 2024 – 2,000 4-inch bluegill (City of Woodward)

• April 2024 – 165 6-inch bluegill (ODWC)

• September 2024 – 4,000 3-inch catfish, 160,000 ¾-inch bluegill, and 28,000 ¾-inch redear sunfish (ODWC)

• September 2024 – 1,750 6-inch bass (City of Woodward)

• May 2025 – 1,480 4-inch bluegill (City of Woodward)

This restocking is a long-term investment in a healthier, more rewarding fishing experience for everyone. Fishing too soon could undo that progress, which is why community support is absolutely essential right now.

While we know it’s tough to wait, Crystal Beach Lake is open and fishing well, thanks to continued stocking efforts. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors while helping give Experiment Lake the time it needs to thrive.

Boating is still allowed at Experiment Lake, as long as internal combustion engines are not used.

The City of Woodward appreciates the public’s understanding and cooperation as the lake continues to recover. Community support during this restocking phase plays a key role in protecting the future of local recreational fishing, and we’re looking forward to welcoming anglers back to a better-than-ever Experiment Lake next summer.