Early Fall for the Missouri River in ND

It’s hard to believe that it’s August and I’m already writing about fall fishing on the Missouri River.  The reality is the rising water levels in northern Lake Oahe in S. North Dakota is probably having a big effect.  There has been good fishing reported all summer long along the state line, and lately there are good reports coming from all the landings going up to the Bismarck area.  Just this morning a good buddy reported a lot of gizzard shad being reported along town, and this is good news for MIssouri River anglers who are wanting to get back on the water for some more sizable fish.

My good friend, Jon Mitzel of Dakota Country Magazine, says most years are good starting in late September with a peak usually occurring around mid to late October most years.  However, with the forage base already moving upriver it’s apparent it’s probably to get hot much earlier this year.  And at least some quality fishing if nothing else.

I’m looking forward to getting out tomorrow and Wednesday myself just south of Bismarck to see what we can find.