If you needed a sign that ice fishing season has arrived, Mother Nature just delivered a loud and clear message. As of 5:00 AM this morning (12/13), the mercury dipped to a crisp -18°F, with a biting windchill of -39°F.

While that might sound intimidating to some, for the anglers and guides of Devils Lake, it’s music to our ears. It means the hard water is building fast, the SnoBears are revving up, and one of the country's premier ice fishing destinations is open for business.

 

Local Legends Gear Up

We aren't the only ones buzzing about the deep freeze. In a recent article for the Grand Forks Herald, writer Andrew Weeks highlighted the anticipation building around the lake. The piece perfectly captures the rugged optimism of our local experts who know this water best.

Weeks spoke with Steve “Zippy” Dahl of the legendary Perch Patrol Guide Service. Dahl and his crew have been chasing gold on these waters since 1995, and they are gearing up to take their first clients out on December 15th. Dahl notes that while weather fronts always play a role—especially with pressure-sensitive perch—his team is ready.

“I’m expecting a good winter of fishing,” Dahl told the Herald. “I’ve got a great crew, and they work real hard, putting our guests on the best fishing we can find.”

The Forecast: A Walleye Wonderland?

The Herald article also touches on an interesting dynamic for the 2023-2024 season. While Devils Lake is famous for its jumbo perch, the North Dakota Department of Game and Fish suggests perch numbers can ebb and flow. However, this creates a massive opportunity for walleye anglers.

Garrett Bonham, a guide with Bry’s Guide Service, told Weeks that he foresees this potentially being a "walleye year." With his team already scouting locations and expecting ice conditions to improve rapidly after this week's cold snap, the chase is on.

“Overall, this year could be really good,” Bonham noted, pointing out that while we wait for the next class of "up-and-comer" perch to mature, the walleye bite should keep rods bending.

Come Discover Why We Are the Best

Devils Lake was recently named one of the best locations for ice fishing in the country, and for good reason. Whether it's the thrill of the chase, the expertise of our world-class guides, or just the sheer beauty of the North Dakota prairie in winter, there is no place like it.

We highly encourage you to check out Andrew Weeks' full article in the Grand Forks Herald and give them a follow for great local coverage.

Ready to experience it yourself? The heaters are on, the holes are drilled, and the fish are waiting. Don't wait until March to book your trip—dates fill up fast!

Bundle up, travel safe, and we’ll see you on the ice!