Fishing Fun: 7 North Dakota State Parks to Reel in the Big One

North Dakota may be known for its open prairies and rich history, but its state parks also offer some of the best freshwater fishing opportunities in the Upper Midwest. With well-managed lakes, rivers and reservoirs stocked with species like walleye, northern pike, perch, salmon and bass, anglers can find both quality fishing and scenic peacefulness in these public lands. Let’s dive into the top state parks for fishing in North Dakota.

1. Fort Stevenson State Park 

Committed to its reputation as the “Walleye Capital” of the state, Fort Stevenson State Park sits along Lake Sakakawea with easy access to deep waters stocked with walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and perch. With two marinas, a fish cleaning station, boat ramps and trail networks, it’s ideal for anglers looking for both comfort and variety in Garrison. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Walleye, smallmouth bass, perch, northern pike
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

2. Lake Sakakawea State Park

Bordering the Garrison Dam, in Pick City, the expansive Lake Sakakawea State Park features excellent fishing for chinook salmon, walleye and northern pike. It offers full service amenities, including lakefront boat ramps, a marina, gas docks and a convenience store, making it convenient for day or weekend trips on the water.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Chinook salmon, walleye, northern pike
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

3. Grahams Island State Park

Located on the largest natural lake in North Dakota, in Devils Lake, the nearly 1,000-acre Grahams Island State Park has been recognized for its superb fishing for walleye, perch (Devils Lake is dubbed “Perch Capital of the World”), northern pike and white bass. It boasts boat ramps, bait shops and year-round community appeal including tournament hosting.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Perch, walleye, white bass, northern pike
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

4. Lake Metigoshe State Park

Nestled in the picturesque Turtle Mountains, Lake Metigoshe State Park offers fishing for northern pike, walleye and perch in a landscape of lakes, trails and forested wetlands. Canoe, kayak or ice fish in winter. This park is ideal for multi-season anglers. Nearby Little Metigoshe Recreation Area also offers lakeside fishing docks and access for ice fishing.  

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Northern pike, walleye, perch
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, dock, ice fishing

5. Turtle River State Park

A serene, forested valley setting with trout-stocked river waters makes Turtle River State Park a favorite for fly anglers. Popular species include rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, northern pike and catfish. Trails and quiet campsites make for a peaceful fishing getaway at this Arvilla state park.  

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, catfish, northern pike
• Fishing Type:

6. Cross Ranch State Park

With primitive access along the Missouri River’s banks, Cross Ranch State Park offers walleye, bass and pike fishing paired with canoe-launching access and a protected nature preserve. It’s ideal for anglers seeking solitude and wildlife viewing in a natural prairie-river environment. 

•  Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Bass, walleye, pike
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, canoe

7. Fort Ransom State Park

Fort Ransom State Park, situated along the scenic Sheyenne River, provides access to walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike and catfish in a scenic river valley setting. Canoe or kayak trips are a great complement to fishing outings here.

•  Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Smallmouth bass, walleye, catfish, northern pike
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, canoe, kayak