Illinois River

I'd like to take the kayaks up to Tahlaquah but have not seen any places that offer a ride up to a launch point if you bring your own. Anybody know anything about doing this? Thanks!

Most of the places used to do this call them and ask. The best way is to take you kayak up stream and float back to their take out and then have them give you a ride back up.

You could also join the Facebook group "North East Oklahoma Kayak Anglers".
They always have people who are going and shuttling each other.
I am a member and recently I joined up with a big group of them to float a 6 mile stretch.
It was a great day with lots of smallies caught.
If you decide you want to go and need someone to go with you just let me know as I am itching to go again.
We don't even need to go together but we can meet up there and work out a shuttle.

You could also do the 12 mile stretch of the river that is a horseshoe.
12 river miles but only 2 road miles so walking back to the car isn't that big of a deal.
I saw someone do that while I was there...he just hitchhiked back to his car.

I've called a couple places on the river and they won't rent you a room unless you book their float trip (kayak). Would prefer to stay at a place on the river but my have to stay in town. J., I'll take a look at that group! The smallies sound fun for sure! What were they biting? I'll get with you on your offer. Thanks to both of you for the feedback!

They were biting on my secret weapon...hehe. Most of the guys were catching them on natural color tubes casting into fast moving water then letting them drift into slower water. Good luck finding room on the river. You can camp at some of the public access points but you have to pay. You are also supposed to buy a river permit but everyone up there said they never checked for it. It is called a " Scenic River Permit " I believe that is also where you pay for the camp spot.

The town is right by the river. Plenty of hotels if you book ahead of time.

I believe the nicest looking hotel was the Comport Inn and Suites.
I stayed in Muskogee but will stay in Tahlequah next time.

I love this river. Floated and fished it many times. Would be really interested in a meet up and fish. I got my secret weapon for this river as well.

I am thinking my next trip up will be in early September...if the weather cooperates.