North Dakota might not be the first U.S. state that comes to mind when you think of a vacation — unless you’re an angler in the know. Devils Lake in northeastern North Dakota doesn’t draw as many visitors as, say, the
amazing autumn leaves at Theodore Roosevelt National Park
In the southeast region of the state, the fishing, scenic views, and various outdoor activities available throughout the year make it worthwhile to visit.
Devils Lake is locally known as the “Perch Capital of the World” but anglers can also pursue white bass, walleye, and northern pike on the lake’s 180,000 acres. Getting out fishing on this large lake is easy anytime of year with boat rentals available at various points around the shores and plenty of fishing guide services to help you land a photo-worthy fish. You can also rent kayaks at the East Bay Campground or launch your own boat from one of eleven public boat ramps around the lake.
Many tourists arrive by car, but if your journey would be too long for a road trip, Devils Lake features some flights serviced by SkyWeek at their local airport. Alternatively, you could book a flight to Fargo instead.
The biggest city in North Dakota, which offers excellent shopping and fascinating sights, making it easily explorable on foot.
, and travel the 166 miles to Devil’s Lake using a rented vehicle. If you prefer a picturesque journey, Amtrak’s Empire Builder service, operating between Chicago and Portland, makes a halt at Devil’s Lake. You’ll find numerous lodging options around the lake including cabins, campsites, lakeshore resorts, and both hotels and motels. Opt for the southbound path from Fargo, allowing yourself to make a pitstop along the way.
Jamestown, a friendly city with unique local shops and a gigantic buffalo statue
.
Read more:
The Top 5 Parks for Observing Wild Bison (Excluding Yellowstone)
Catch Fish All Year Round at Devil’s Lake
Although June and July provide the hottest weather at Devils Lake with temperatures around 80 degrees, fishing remains productive throughout the year. The winter season, despite being extremely frigid, draws in ice fishing aficionados.
Field & Stream
Devils Lake was ranked as the number two spot for ice fishing across the nation in 2024.
Many anglers visit Devils Lake for the perch and white bass and with good reason: Devils Lake produced the state record catches in both species. Walleye is another draw, with the lake producing double the average number of 15- to 20-inch fish compared to other South Dakota lakes. Aggressive northern pike are also a popular game fish, attracting anglers who enjoy their predatory strikes in shallower waters.
With its northern location, just over an hour from the Canadian border, and cold climate, Devils Lake offers a reliable ice fishing season from about December through March. Fishing Devils Lake is also affordable, even for out-of-staters, with non-resident fishing licenses costing just $53 for a season-long license and even less for a 3- or 10-day license to cover a visit.
Enjoy Devils Lake On And Off The Water
While fishing might be the highlight on the activity roster at Devil’s Lake, numerous other pastimes await both within and beyond the shoreline. During the balmy summer season, the water heats up to a refreshing range between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal for diving into swimming as well as various aquatic sports. You can lease kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, or jet skis during these warm months; alternatively, swap your summertime pursuits with wintertime fun such as snowmobile rides, cross-country ski trips, ice-skating sessions, or sledding down snowy hillsides.
The Dockside Entertainment center provides various forms of family entertainment throughout the year at the eastern part of the lake, featuring activities such as bowling, arcade games, pickleball, and an indoor golf simulator. During the warmer season, typically from April to October, visitors can enjoy the Creel Bay Golf Course, which is an 18-hole public course located along the shorelines of one of Devil’s Lake’s northern coves.
Nestled along the south shore of the lake, the Spirit Lake Casino & Resort provides slot machines and various gaming options for a slice of Las Vegas experience managed by the Spirit Lake Nation Reservation on an island within the lake. This resort additionally organizes concerts, fishing competitions, and numerous other activities all-year-round.
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