Best fishing spots on Lake Sakakawea

Best fishing spots on Lake Sakakawea | Lake Sakakawea fishing hot spots

Lake Sakakawea, stretching over 178 miles with more than 1,500 miles of shoreline, is not only North Dakota’s largest reservoir but also one of the premier fishing destinations in the Northern Plains. Fed by the Missouri River and framed by scenic bluffs and rolling hills, the lake supports a diverse fishery that includes walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, Chinook salmon, and yellow perch. With its vast size and variety of underwater structures, pinpointing the best fishing spots can make all the difference for a successful day on the water.

Here is a comprehensive guide to some of the most productive and popular fishing spots on Lake Sakakawea, organized by region.

1. Van Hook Arm

Located on the western end of the lake near New Town, the Van Hook Arm is perhaps the most famous fishing area on Lake Sakakawea. Known for its protected waters and abundant forage base, it consistently produces large numbers of walleye, especially during spring and early summer. The arm is also excellent for northern pike and smallmouth bass. Anglers often troll or jig along drop-offs and submerged points.

Best For: Walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass

Time of Year: May to July, late August

Access: Van Hook public boat ramp, city of New Town

2. Government Bay and Shell Creek Bay

These bays are located near the Garrison Dam on the eastern end of the lake and are prime spots for early-season walleye fishing. As the water warms, fish move from the river into the lake, congregating in these protected bays. Government Bay also offers access to deeper water where Chinook salmon can be targeted in mid to late summer.

Best For: Early-season walleye, Chinook salmon

Time of Year: April to June for walleye, August to September for salmon

Access: Fort Stevenson State Park, East Totten Trail boat ramps

3. Douglas Bay

Douglas Bay, situated north of Riverdale and west of the dam, offers a wide array of fishing opportunities. Submerged timber, rocky points, and deep-water structures attract walleye, smallmouth bass, and pike. It’s also a productive spot for salmon when trolling with downriggers in late summer.

Best For: Walleye, smallmouth bass, salmon

Time of Year: June through September

Access: Indian Hills Resort and Campground, Douglas Creek boat launch

4. Deepwater Bay

Located in the central portion of the lake, Deepwater Bay is aptly named. Its complex structure and depth gradients make it one of the top summer and fall locations for walleye. Anglers often use lead core lines, crankbaits, and bottom bouncers to reach deeper fish. The bay also hosts quality smallmouth bass.

Best For: Deep-water walleye, smallmouth bass

Time of Year: July through October

Access: Deepwater Creek Recreation Area

5. White Earth Bay

On the northwestern side of the lake near Tioga, White Earth Bay is a large arm featuring shallower flats, submerged islands, and gentle drop-offs. It’s a hotspot for early-season walleye and northern pike, with many fish found in less than 10 feet of water during the spring spawn and post-spawn period.

Best For: Walleye, pike

Time of Year: April to June

Access: White Earth Bay Campground and Boat Ramp

6. Little Missouri Arm

This more remote section in the western reaches of Lake Sakakawea near the confluence with the Little Missouri River is known for less fishing pressure and scenic beauty. It’s productive for pike, catfish, and walleyes—especially in spring and fall when fish move upriver.

Best For: Pike, catfish, walleye

Time of Year: Spring and Fall

Access: Limited—4WD access and small ramps only

7. Garrison Dam Tailrace

Though technically just below Lake Sakakawea, the tailrace area below Garrison Dam is too productive to leave off the list. The cold, oxygen-rich water supports excellent fishing for trout, salmon, and walleye year-round. Shore fishing is popular here, especially from the “wing wall” or downstream gravel bars.

Best For: Salmon, rainbow trout, walleye

Time of Year: Year-round

Access: Downstream Campground and Riverdale access points

8. Wolf Creek Bay

Located northeast of Pick City, Wolf Creek Bay is known for its calm waters and excellent shore access. This area is great for beginner anglers and families looking to catch a variety of fish including perch, walleye, and white bass. It also offers good ice fishing in winter.

Best For: Perch, walleye, white bass

Time of Year: Spring and ice fishing season

Access: Wolf Creek Recreation Area

Tips for Success

Electronics Help: Given the lake’s size and underwater variability, fish finders and GPS mapping tools can greatly enhance success.

Seasonal Patterns Matter: In spring, target shallower bays and creek mouths; in summer, focus on deeper main-lake points and drop-offs.

Check Conditions: Lake Sakakawea is prone to wind, especially in the central basin. Always check forecasts before heading out.

Follow Regulations: Ensure you follow all size and limit rules set by the North Dakota Game and Fish Department.

Conclusion

From shallow weedy bays teeming with pike to deepwater haunts holding salmon and trophy walleye, Lake Sakakawea offers something for every type of angler. Its best fishing spots are scattered across this massive reservoir, each offering a unique blend of structure, access, and seasonal productivity. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend fisherman, these locations provide some of the finest freshwater fishing in the Midwest.