North Dakota Waters
Lake Reports.
Your guide to North Dakota's best lakes for boating, fishing, and recreation. Plan your next trip with local knowledge from the Vallely team.
Featured Lakes
Top Waters in North Dakota
From world-class walleye fisheries to family-friendly recreation, these lakes keep boaters coming back season after season.
Lake Sakakawea
Near Garrison
Known For
Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike
Seasonal Tip
Spring walleye runs along the Van Hook Arm are legendary. Launch early and work the points with jigs and minnows as water temps hit the upper 40s.
Lake Oahe
Near Linton
Known For
Walleye, Chinook Salmon, Smallmouth Bass
Seasonal Tip
Summer trolling for walleye near the Beaver Bay area produces consistent catches. Keep an eye on current flow from the dam for best positioning.
Devils Lake
Near Devils Lake
Known For
Perch, Walleye, White Bass
Seasonal Tip
The perch fishing here is world-class through the ice. In open water, drift the flats with crawler harnesses for jumbo perch and walleye.
Lake Darling
Near Minot
Known For
Walleye, Northern Pike, Perch
Seasonal Tip
A hidden gem close to Minot. Fish the narrows for pike in spring and transition to walleye along the weed edges as summer sets in.
Missouri River
Near Bismarck
Known For
Walleye, Northern Pike, Sandbars
Seasonal Tip
Enjoy endless pleasure on the many sandbars in the area, and great spring/fall walleye fishing.
Lake Metigoshe
Near Bottineau
Known For
Summer Recreation
Seasonal Tip
Lake Metigoshe is a summer North Dakota hot spot for water sports, endless pontoon days, and all things recreation.
Lake Audubon
Near Coleharbor
Known For
Walleye, Northern Pike, Perch
Seasonal Tip
Connected to Sakakawea via the McClusky Canal, Audubon offers quieter waters. Work the rocky shorelines early season for aggressive pike.
Garrison Dam Tailrace
Near Riverdale
Known For
Walleye, Rainbow Trout, Chinook Salmon
Seasonal Tip
Fish below the dam when generators are running for trophy walleye. The tailrace is one of the best trophy walleye fisheries in the state.
Before You Launch
A quick safety checklist so every trip starts right and ends with stories worth telling.
Life Jackets for All
North Dakota law requires a USCG-approved life jacket for every person on board. Children under 10 must wear one at all times while underway.
Current Registration
All motorized watercraft must be registered with the ND Game & Fish Department. Display your registration numbers on both sides of the bow.
Check the Weather
North Dakota weather shifts fast. Check conditions before launch and watch for afternoon thunderstorms, especially June through August.
File a Float Plan
Tell someone where you are going, who is with you, and when you plan to return. A simple text to a family member counts.
Inspect Your Trailer
Check tire pressure, lights, winch strap, and safety chains before every trip. Grease your wheel bearings at least once a season.
ANS Prevention
Clean, Drain, Dry. Remove all aquatic vegetation, drain livewells and bilge, and dry your boat between waters to stop the spread of aquatic nuisance species.
Helpful Links
Boating Resources
Official sources for lake levels, regulations, and fishing reports across North Dakota.
ND Game & Fish Department
Official fishing regulations, stocking reports, and license information for all North Dakota waters.
Visit Site →USACE Lake Levels
Real-time water levels for Lake Sakakawea, Lake Oahe, and other Corps of Engineers reservoirs.
Visit Site →North Dakota Fishing Reports
Weekly fishing reports from ND Game & Fish with current conditions and what anglers are catching.
Visit Site →ND Boat Registration
Register your watercraft, check requirements, and learn about boating safety courses.
Visit Site →Ready to Hit the Water?
Browse our lineup of boats and pontoons built for North Dakota waters. From fishing rigs to family cruisers, we have you covered.
