Fishing At Lake Darling

AKA: Lake Darling Landings

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for smallmouth bass, walleye, yellow perch and northern pike at Lake Darling in North Dakota.

There are plenty of spots for remote, primitive camping along the nearly 50 miles of shoreline at Lake Darling, a 9,500-acre lake in the north-central part of the state, at Grano. In the warm season, fishing is good for bass, walleye, perch and pike.

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

Lake Darling is located in the central part of North Dakota, near the city of Minot. It is a popular fishing destination known for its diverse fish population and scenic surroundings. Lake Darling is home to several popular fish species, including walleye, largemouth bass, yellow perch, northern pike, channel catfish, and bluegill.

Walleye fishing in Lake Darling is particularly popular. These elusive game fish are known for their delicious white flesh and challenging nature. Anglers often target walleye using techniques such as trolling, jigging, or casting with live bait, such as minnows or nightcrawlers. The lake's structure, including drop-offs, points, and submerged vegetation, provide ideal habitats for walleye.

Largemouth bass can also be found in Lake Darling, offering anglers an exciting fishing experience. These aggressive predators can be targeted using a variety of techniques, including topwater lures, spinnerbaits, or soft plastics. The lake's weed beds, submerged logs, and shoreline structures provide excellent cover for largemouth bass.

Yellow perch are another popular fish species in Lake Darling. Anglers often find success targeting yellow perch using small jigs tipped with live bait, such as minnows or worms. These tasty panfish can be caught near weed beds, drop-offs, or other structures where they congregate.

Northern pike are abundant in Lake Darling and provide thrilling fishing action. These aggressive predators are known for their powerful strikes and strong fights. Anglers targeting northern pike often use larger lures, such as spoons, spinnerbaits, or swimbaits. The lake's weedy areas and deeper pockets are prime locations for targeting these toothy predators.

In addition to the popular game fish, Lake Darling is home to other species such as channel catfish and bluegill, providing anglers with additional fishing opportunities. The lake's clear waters and abundant aquatic vegetation create a favorable environment for these fish.

Boating and camping facilities are available at Lake Darling, allowing anglers to fully enjoy their fishing experience. Anglers can bring their boats and explore the lake's waters, searching for their favorite fishing spots. Camping options provide an opportunity to extend the stay and immerse in the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

In conclusion, Lake Darling in North Dakota is a fantastic fishing destination offering opportunities to catch walleye, largemouth bass, yellow perch, northern pike, channel catfish, and bluegill. Anglers can enjoy the variety of fishing experiences provided by the lake's diverse fish population. Boating and camping facilities make Lake Darling an attractive destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a memorable fishing adventure.

Walleye and perch are top choices while ice fishing in winter. There are five boat access landings around the lake. Greene Crossing Boating Access on the north end, Grano Crossing Boating Access mid lake, Lake Darling Landing 3 on the southwest shore, South Boat Ramp on the east side at the dam, and Lake Darling Landing #1 is on the west side by the dam. Most anywhere you camp there will be access to the shore for fishing from the bank. An RV park is about 30 minutes south of the lake, in Minot.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Darling

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Darling Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Grano Crossing Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, at the west end of the State Route 26 Bridge, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Greene Crossing Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, at the east end of the 49th Avenue NW Bridge, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Landing #1 Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off 40th Avenue NW, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Landing #3 Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off 73rd Street NW, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Spillway Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, at the east end of the dam, off State Route 6, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Click here for a North Dakota Fishing License.