Noted for its beauty, the Illinois River is nestled in the heart of the Oklahoma Ozarks. The upper river is an easy flowing, Class II river with delightful scenery and several stretches of mild rapids for float trips. There is excellent fishing with smallmouth and largemouth bass, channel and flathead catfish, walleye, and various sunfishes. Floaters can enjoy 40 miles of interesting and sometimes challenging waterway. It’s also one of the best places in the state to see America's bird, the bald eagle. Originally aired January 8, 2005.