The air is getting colder, the holidays are approaching, and thoughts turn to one thing in Devils Lake, North Dakota: Ice Fishing!

In this special edition of the Devils Lake Outdoor Report, Pat Kalmerton sits down with legendary guide Steve Dahl, AKA Zippy, the owner and operator of Perch Patrol Guide Service, to discuss the upcoming season, current lake conditions, and why Devils Lake remains a premier ice fishing destination.

This is the essential guide you need to start planning your perfect Devils Lake ice fishing trip!

 

 

 

The Cold Truth: Current Conditions

While we're all eagerly anticipating the first safe ice, Zippy reports that Devils Lake isn't quite ready yet, despite recent cold snaps.

"We're finally getting some cold temps here, but we're not making ice quite yet... Other day it was down to 14 degrees, you know, we're low anyway. And so, I mean, it's definitely cooling the water off."

The good news? The cooling water follows a spectacular open-water season for Walleye, Pike, and White Bass. Everything is lining up for what is expected to be another phenomenal year on the ice!

 

Perch Patrol: Mobility, Scouting, and Success

Celebrating their 31st season, the Perch Patrol Guide Service is a fixture on Devils Lake ice. Zippy emphasizes a winning strategy that has kept his clients successful for decades: mobility and teamwork.

  • Run and Gun: The crew uses portable ice houses to stay directly on top of the feeding fish.

  • Divide and Conquer: With a crew of 10 experienced guides, they can cover the vast expanse of Devils Lake, taking the pulse of what's going on across the water.

  • The Game Plan: A typical day often starts by targeting the early Walleye bite, then shifting focus to the lake's famous Perch bite.

    "Typically we a lot of mornings we start out walleye fishin' and then we go to the perch after that... It's the key to our success is being mobile and scouting and working with people."

Hiring a guide is all about saving time. You get immediate access to top-of-the-line gear, expert knowledge, and locations that are actively holding fish.

 

Hassle-Free Ice Fishing Packages

Devils Lake is a bucket-list destination, and Zippy and the Perch Patrol make the experience seamless, especially for those traveling long distances.

 

All-Inclusive Package at Woodland Resort

The original home of Perch Patrol, Woodland Resort offers a comprehensive package that covers all your needs:

  • All Meals

  • Lodging

  • Fully Guided Fishing (Rods, line, electronics, and lunch on the ice are provided!)

 

Stay & Play Package at Sleep Inn & Suites

A newer option that offers a change of pace:

  • Premium Accommodations in the city of Devils Lake.

  • Outdoor Amenities including a beautiful heated fish cleaning shack with freezer facilities.

  • City Experience: Guests enjoy meals at a variety of local restaurants in town.

Gear is covered! Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned angler traveling light, Perch Patrol provides everything, including Vexilar FLX 28 electronics for every client.

 

Plan Your Devils Lake Ice Adventure

If you're planning your trip around the Thanksgiving table, now is the time to secure your dates!

  • World's Largest Ice Fishing Show: Zippy and the Perch Patrol crew will be partnering with Woodland Resort at the St. Paul Ice Show (coming up in a couple of weeks!) to answer questions and hand out their detailed brochure.

  • The Famous "Perch Express" Train? While a highly requested feature, Zippy confirms the train package will not be returning this year due to logistical challenges, but they are working hard to try and bring it back in the future. If you do want to come in on the train, it is an option, you just need to figure out your own means of Transportation to and from the station. One option is to rent with U-Save Auto Rental. 

  • Driving is Easy: The drive is comfortable and fast, with four-lane highway all the way from Minneapolis, and a relaxed speed limit once you cross into North Dakota.

 

How to Book Your Trip

Ready to chase those two-pound Devils Lake Perch, Walleye, and Pike?