Spring in Devils Lake means it's time to grab your rods and hit the shore! With a year-round fishing season, Devils Lake offers incredible opportunities for anglers chasing Walleye and Northern Pike, especially as the ice begins to melt. The lake's unique history, expanding to over 160,000 acres, has created easily accessible shorelines along highways and gravel roads, making it a true shore fishing paradise.
Where the Magic Happens:
Devils Lake boasts miles of fishable shoreline, complete with public access points and fishing piers for easy angling. Major highways like Highway 19, 57, and 20 offer excellent access with rip-rap near bridges providing prime fishing areas. Gravel roads near Channel A and the Mauvee Coulee are also hotspots with good public entry. Remember to be mindful of posted areas and local farm traffic. Key areas to target include bridges and culverts with current, as these attract fish moving into their spawning areas. And here's a pro tip: fish the wind-blown side of the shore – that's where the bait (and the hungry fish) will be!
What to Use:
Devils Lake shore fishing can be as simple or as specialized as you like. North Dakota allows two rods, so why not use them? A great strategy is to combine an aggressive casting approach with a live-bait presentation. For casting, jigs with plastics (paddle-tail and twister tail) and small crankbaits are effective. A 1/4oz jig is versatile for both shallow water in early spring and in deeper water as temperatures warm. To avoid losing lures to Pike, use a 12-18" fluorocarbon leader. Using slip bobbers or lindy rigs while setting your bait about a foot off the bottom is a reliable technique for landing fish. Small jigs or plain hooks baited with leeches also catch Walleyes, especially in cold front conditions or when fish won’t chase crankbaits.
More Than Just Fishing:
Devils Lake is known to attract anglers year-round with it's exceptional fishing, from the trilling ice season to open water excitement! As the ice recedes, miles of accessible shoreline become prime for walleye and pike, offering a unique early season advantage for shore anglers. Beyond the water, the Lake Region offers unique historical sites, protected wildlife areas, and North Dakota's only island State Park.
So, whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, Devils Lake offers a shore fishing experience unlike any other. Come explore the "Shore Fishing Capitol of the World" and discover the thrill of reeling in walleye and pike against the backdrop of North Dakota's beautiful landscape. Remember to check out local bait shops for the latest tips and gear, and be sure to respect the environment and leave no trace behind. Tight lines!
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