If you’ve been scrolling through waterfowl reports lately, you’ve probably seen the massive push of snow geese moving north. But if you think you’ve missed the window, think again.
In the latest report, Patrick Kalmerton sits down with Eric Strub of All Flocked Up Outdoors to talk about why the middle of April is actually the "sweet spot" for hunting in the Devil’s Lake area—and why you should always pack your fishing rods alongside your shotgun.
The Strategy: Targeting the "Teenagers"
Many hunters try to race the front edge of the migration, but Eric explains why patience pays off. The first birds through are the veteran adults—the ones that have "seen the war." They are on a mission to hit the Arctic and start nesting.
Behind them? The juveniles and non-breeders.
"Remember when you were left home alone as a kid the first time? All sorts of bad choices were made," Eric jokes. "We’re going to try and capitalize on them bad choices and their inexperience."
These younger birds aren't in as much of a rush, making them more likely to decoy and stay put in the "sheet water" (the shallow melt-water puddles) found throughout North Dakota’s agricultural fields.
Cast and Blast: The Coulee Migration
When the sun gets high, and the geese settle into their midday loafing, the action doesn't stop—it just moves to the water. Eric and Pat discuss the unique phenomenon of Coulee fishing.
As the snow melts, water runs through narrow channels (coulees) into the larger lake systems. Walleyes use these currents to move up and spawn.
- The Experience: You’re standing on the shore of a 30-yard-wide runoff ditch, pulling out beautiful walleyes.
- The Bonus: Unlike neighboring states, North Dakota’s walleye season never closes, making it a year-round destination for anglers.
Why Book a Guide?
While you can DIY a snow goose hunt, Eric highlights a few reasons why local knowledge is a game-changer:
- Landowner Relations: Eric lives, shops, and goes to church in the community. Those relationships open doors to land that visitors simply can't access.
- The "Windshield Time": Instead of spending your whole trip scouting from your truck, a guide like Eric is already on the birds.
- The Gear: Forget hauling a trailer full of decoys. Eric provides the spread, the blinds, and the expertise.
Pro-Tips for Your Trip
Heading to Devil’s Lake this spring? Here is Eric’s checklist:
- Layer Up: It can be 70°F on Wednesday and 17°F on Friday. Bring gear for rain, snow, and sun.
- Bring Ammo: Eric recommends at least a case of shells per day. "If you get into a burner, you'd rather have more than not enough."
- Backup Gun: The North Dakota mud is legendary for gumming up actions. Bring a spare so you don't miss the flight.
Follow the Journey
Patrick will be joined by Chris Jennings (Ducks Unlimited), photographer John Hoffman, and Paul Johnson for an epic week of hunting and fishing. Stay tuned to the Devil’s Lake tourism page for live blogs, photos, and reels from the field!
Ready to book your own adventure? Contact Eric Strub at AllFlockedUpOutdoorsND.com or call him directly at 701-230-9173.
"It’s a Canadian-style experience south of the border," says Eric. "Everybody needs to experience North Dakota at least once."