Fishing At Lake Ashtabula

AKA: Ashtabula Reservoir

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for smallmouth bass, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, white bass, yellow perch and northern pike at Lake Ashtabula in North Dakota.

There are seven boat launch ramps on Lake Ashtabula, providing access areas for boating and fishing.This 5,400-acre lake in the east-central part of the state is loaded with smallmouth bass, perch walleye, white bass and northern pike.

Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Boat Launch Ramps
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Lake Video
Contact Info

Lake Ashtabula is located in the eastern part of North Dakota, near Valley City. It is a popular fishing destination known for its diverse fish population. Anglers visiting Lake Ashtabula can expect to find a variety of species, including smallmouth bass, walleye, black crappie, white crappie, white bass, and sunfish.

Smallmouth bass are highly sought after in Lake Ashtabula. They are known for their fighting spirit and are often found around rocky structures and submerged vegetation. Anglers can use a variety of lures and techniques to target smallmouth bass, such as crankbaits, jigs, and soft plastics.

Walleye fishing is also excellent in Lake Ashtabula. These prized game fish are known for their delicious taste and challenging nature. Anglers often use live bait, such as minnows or leeches, or artificial lures like jigs and crankbaits to entice walleye. Spring and fall are typically the best seasons to target walleye in Lake Ashtabula.

Crappie fishing is another popular activity on Lake Ashtabula. Both black and white crappie can be found in good numbers, particularly around submerged structures and brush piles. Anglers often use jigs or live minnows to catch crappie. These fish are highly regarded for their delicate flavor and make for excellent table fare.

White bass and sunfish are also abundant in Lake Ashtabula. White bass, known for their aggressive nature and strong fight, are often caught using lures such as jigs and spinners. Sunfish, including bluegill and other species, are popular among novice anglers and are a great target for family fishing outings.

Aside from fishing, Lake Ashtabula offers boating and camping opportunities. Anglers can enjoy cruising the scenic lake while searching for their next fishing spot. There are boat ramps and facilities available for boaters. Camping areas near the lake provide a convenient option for anglers who wish to spend multiple days exploring the fishing opportunities and enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Ashtabula.

Lake Ashtabula in North Dakota is a fantastic fishing destination offering a variety of popular fish species. Anglers can target smallmouth bass, walleye, black crappie, white crappie, white bass, and sunfish while enjoying the scenic surroundings of the lake. The best season to fish depends on the species, but spring and fall generally provide excellent opportunities. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, Lake Ashtabula offers a rewarding fishing experience with options for boating and camping to enhance your outdoor adventure.

Big smallmouth, giant walleye and fat perch get most of the attention here, but don't overlook the other species as they can provide consistent catches. Current is always a factor when fishing this river lake. Visitors arriving for boating or fishing can enjoy over seventy miles of shoreline. Many trails around the lake, as well as areas around the landings, offer access to anglers wishing to fish from the bank.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Ashtabula

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Ashtabula Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES - 8
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

Hungry Pelican
Rentals: Fishing boats, kayaks and pontoon boats
701 490-3735

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Ashtabula Crossing Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, at the west end of the 118th Avenue SE Bridge, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and gravel parking.

East Ashtabula Landing Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, at the east end of the 118th Avenue SE Bridge, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Eggerts Landing Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off 22nd Street SE, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Karnack Bridge Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off 10th Street SE, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Katie Olson Landing Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Katie Olson Landing, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Mel Reiman Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off River Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Sibley Crossing Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, at the west end of the State Route 26 Bridge, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Sundstrom's Landing Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Sunset Place, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Click here for a North Dakota Fishing License.