As fall sets in and the air gets crisp, Devils Lake, North Dakota continues to deliver incredible late-season fishing opportunities — and a bit of unexpected excitement. We caught up with local guide and Ed’s Bait Shop co-owner, Garrett Bonham of Bry’s Guide Service, to talk about what’s biting, where to fish, and how hunters can double up their outdoor adventures this time of year.
Post-Rain Patterns and Fall Transitions
After a few days of strong winds and 1–2 inches of rain across the Devils Lake Basin, the water’s a bit stirred up — but the fish are still active. Garrett notes that this late-season transition has produced solid walleye bites across much of the lake.
“We’ve had some wind and rain that might’ve dirtied up the water,” Garrett said. “I’ll be checking that this afternoon, but the bite’s been steady. I’ve been using jigs with crawlers and bobbers with leeches — which is rare for this time of year because we actually still have leeches in stock!”
Yes, you read that right — Ed’s Bait Shop still has live leeches in October, a first for many regulars. That means anglers still have the chance to fish traditional live bait methods before the lake freezes over.
Current Tactics: Leadcore Trolling and Crankbait Choices
Garrett plans to start his day trolling leadcore with Salmo Hornets, running #4½ (with rattles) and #5 (without) crankbaits in 10–15 feet of water.
“The #4½ has been my favorite for years,” he said. “But this season, the #5s have been outperforming. Greens, chartreuse, and fire tiger colors are definitely hot right now.”
He’s running two colors of leadcore with a nine-foot, 15-lb fluorocarbon leader, and this year, he’s switched to 27-lb leadcore line for extra strength around snags and submerged trees. This setup keeps things compact and efficient — with only about 50–65 feet of line out, you can cover more water and reel fish in faster, especially useful when the fall winds pick up.
Where the Walleyes Are: Structure, Roads, and Current
If you’re wondering where to focus your efforts, Garrett says it’s all about structure and current right now.
“We’re seeing fish on rocks, in trees, and on top of roadbeds. Some spots are so tight you can barely fit a boat over them — one side of the boat is catching fish while the other isn’t.”
Bridges and current areas are also producing solid catches. As water temperatures cool, these spots become prime walleye and perch hangouts.
Hunters: Don’t Forget Your Rods
If you’re coming to Devils Lake for waterfowl hunting, don’t pack away those fishing rods! Many hunters are discovering that the afternoons — after the morning duck flights — are perfect for a few hours of shore fishing.
“One of our guides has been catching fish from shore almost every day,” Garrett shared. “He’s been jigging crawlers in current areas and just letting them sit on bottom. The bite’s been good from about 9 a.m. through the middle of the day.”
Shore anglers can also try jigs and plastics or leeches on bottom rigs, just be selective — the fall weeds are thick, so find cleaner stretches or current seams.
Book a Guided Trip Before Ice-Up
Open-water fishing in Devils Lake can continue well into November, depending on weather. Garrett and the Bry’s Guide Service team are running flexible trips for both anglers and hunters looking to get on the water in between hunts.
“Last year I was still guiding in early November,” Garrett said. “We’ve got boats ready, and even last-minute trips are possible. Just give us a call — if the weather’s good, we’ll get you out.”
To book a trip:
Visit brysguideservice.com or stop by Ed’s Bait Shop in Devils Lake for the latest bait, tackle, and fishing updates.
Bonus Report: Waterfowl Update
While Garrett’s been busy guiding anglers, he’s hearing mixed reports from area duck hunters.
“Some say it’s a little tougher this year with fewer young birds, but the rain brought more sheet water and cooler temps are moving birds around,” he said. “We were right near freezing this morning, and that should help push more birds into the region.”
In other words — it’s shaping up to be a solid mid-October for both fishing and hunting in Devils Lake.
Final Take: October Fishing Opportunities Abound
Devils Lake is living up to its reputation as one of the Midwest’s most versatile fall destinations. Whether you’re trolling leadcore for walleyes, shore fishing between duck hunts, or scouting the next honey hole from a bridge, the bite is still hot — and there’s plenty of adventure left before the ice sets in.
So grab your jacket, swing by Ed’s Bait Shop, and make the most of October on Devils Lake, North Dakota — the Outdoor Capital of the Midwest.