With upwards of six inches of solid ice on the main Devils Lake basin and more on the “northern” lakes, Devils Lake, North Dakota is bracing for the onslaught of ice fishermen. Many regulars arrive and operate under the DIY mode. Those unfamiliar with the 240,000 acre lake hire guide services. Guide services provide all tackle, bait, electronics, shelters, heaters and select fishing spots they know have been producing. The advantage of large guide services is that some guides are always exploring for…
Read MoreAn ice covering will soon allow fishermen access to 240 square miles of Devils Lake perch, walleyes, pike and white bass. One of the most popular US ice fishing destinations is the lake by the city with the same name – Devils Lake, North Dakota. Following a summer and late fall with some of the best fishing action ever, even long-time fishing guides are giddy about what’s coming. Zippy Dahl, owner of the famed Perch Patrol, said, “I’m overly optimistic. This was one…
Read MoreWill this be the season to find out why Devils Lake is on every ice fisherman’s Bucket List? Whether chasing perch (the favorite for most anglers), white bass, pike or walleye, Devils Lake has it all. The reasons start with the fact that yellow perch are “…plentiful, big and fat, fun to catch…” according to guide Mark Bry. Since perch prefer working hours, 9 to 4, there is plenty of daylight for walleyes early and late. The facts support what guides know. Todd…
Read MoreSummer fish population surveys by North Dakota fisheries crews peg Devils Lake walleyes, perch and white bass all doing exceptionally well. “The test netting results showed numbers for all species up over last season and most considerably higher than traditional averages,” said biologist Todd Caspers.” The fish are doing well. So, too, is tourism according to Tourism executive director Suzie Kenner. She said, “Tourism has been going really strong. If the summer activity pace continues, I feel Devils Lake will experience a record year.”…
Read MoreWith warmer weather, early ice-out and minimal run-off, the Devils Lake “bite” began in mid-April and has shown no let-up. “The usual mid-May hot bite is right now,” said Devils Lake outdoor media coordinator Tanner Cherney. Because fishermen with their families return to Devils Lake annually and many first-timers are considering this walleye, northern pike and white bass mecca, a special seminar series will be offered free to all via Facebook. Noted fishing educator, Devils Lake guide and world walleye champion…
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