The sun is hanging a little higher in the sky, and the morning air has lost some of its winter teeth. For many, that’s a sign to start thinking about the boat, but for the die-hard anglers of Devils Lake, North Dakota, it means something else entirely: Jumbo Perch prime time.

Late-season ice fishing (March into early April) often offers the most electric bite of the year. The fish are aggressive, prepping for the spring spawn, and feeding heavily. However, the same sun that fires up the bite also changes the ice.

If you're looking to squeeze out one last trophy run for those legendary 2-pound perch or 10-pound walleyes, here is how to do it safely and effectively.

 

1. Safety First: The "Golden Rules" of Late Ice

On Devils Lake, ice conditions can change by the hour during the late season. Just because it was solid yesterday doesn't mean it's safe today.

  • Check the Honeycomb: Late-season ice often becomes "honeycombed" or "dark." This ice is significantly weaker than the clear, blue "black ice" of early winter. Even 12 inches of honeycombed ice can be less safe than 4 inches of clear ice.
  • The Shoreline Gap: The ice usually melts from the shore outward first. Pay close attention to "heaves" and where the ice meets the land; you might need a bridge or a plank to get on and off as the season wanes.
  • Essential Gear: * Ice Picks: Wear them around your neck. Period.
    • Float Suits: Modern suits provide life-saving buoyancy while keeping you warm and dry.
    • Spud Bar: Don't trust your eyes; trust your arm. Use a spud bar to test the ice in front of you as you walk.

Pro Tip: When in doubt, call the local experts. The Devils Lake Chamber of Commerce (701-662-4903) and local guides are the best sources for daily ice thickness and "no-go" zone updates.

 

2. Targeting Record Perch & Walleye

The late-season bite is all about the "transition." Fish are moving from their deep winter haunts toward shallower spawning flats.

  • The Perch Strategy: Look for the "Jumbos" in the 20–35 foot range, often hovering near the bottom of the main lake basin. As March progresses, they will begin to push toward the edges of flooded timber and shallower bays.
  • The Walleye Window: Walleyes remain most active during the "low light" hours—sunrise and sunset. Target them in 15 feet of water or less. If the snow cover has melted and the ice is clear, be extra quiet; these fish are shallow and "spooky."
  • Pike Pursuit: Pikes are on the prowl and in the shallows looking for easy meals as fish start to transition into spawning beds, such as downed trees, rock piles, and shorelines.
  • Current Stats: According to recent ND Game & Fish netting surveys, Devils Lake is currently seeing near-record numbers of walleye in the 15-to-25-inch range.

 

3. Expert Guidance: Don't Guess, Book a Pro

Devils Lake is a massive 200,000-acre beast. Navigating it safely and finding the schools requires local intel. Devils Lake, ND guides are the best in the business and can provide the most current safety info. To book a guide, visit our ice fishing page. 

Late Season Fast Facts

Fact Detail
Daily Limit 5 Walleye / 20 Perch
Record Perch Devils Lake frequently produces perch over 2.0 lbs
Ice Thickness Min. 4" for walking; 12-15" for light vehicles (on clear ice)
License Year New ND licenses are required starting April 1st

 

Plan Your Trip

Don't let the season slip away! Whether you’re chasing a wall-hanger or just want one more fish fry, the clock is ticking.

Ready to hit the ice one last time?

Call the Devils Lake Chamber of Commerce at 701-662-4903 or visit DevilsLakeND.com for a full list of guides and lodging availability.