Trout Fishing In North Dakota

Guide to fishing for rainbow, cutthroat, brown and lake trout in area lakes and streams.

Rainbow Trout
Cutthroat Trout
Brown Trout
Lake Trout
Trout Lakes In The State
Available Trout Species
Top Trout Lures & Flies

North Dakota offers quality trout fishing, with various species available in its lakes and rivers. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about trout fishing and identify trout fishing waters in the state. Among the popular trout species targeted by anglers are rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout, and cutthroat trout.

Fishing For Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are one of the most fished for trout species in the state, and can be found in numerous North Dakota lakes and rivers. Known for its tasty pink flesh, rainbows are a favorite among the vast majority of trout anglers in the state. It also appeals to the fly fisherman as it can be caught on flies as well as other small baits and lures. It feeds on small insects, minnows, crustaceans and worms. It is ideal for both sport and dining pleasure. More...

Fishing For Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat trout call the Pacific northwest home, however they are also stocked in many lakes. Cutthroat trout fishing holds a cherished place among anglers. While fly fishing reigns supreme as the preferred method, these prized fish are also susceptible to various artificial lures mimicking minnows or grubs, as well as live bait presentations. Cutthroat trout fishing is renowned for the spectacular battles while landing. More...

Fishing For Brown Trout

Brown trout, another prized trout species, can be found in select North Dakota lakes and rivers. Many of these fisheries are attracting anglers from near and far. These elusive and wary fish offer a challenge to anglers, requiring stealthy presentations and precise casting to entice a bite. Brown trout feed on worms, minnows, insects and crustaceans. Larger browns can be taken on jerkbaits, small crankbaits and spinners. More...

Fishing For Lake Trout

Lake trout are by far the largest of the trouts. They live in deep, cold lakes and feeds on virtually all forms of flesh which exist in its home waters. It's rich flaky flesh makes it a tasty table favorite. During early spring, lake trout can often be found in the shallows of lakes, readily taking dry flies, wet flies, and other slow-moving presentations. As surface temperatures rise, these trout typically migrate to deeper waters, prompting anglers to employ trolling with heavier tackle as the primary technique using spoons and baitfish-imitating lures. These deep-water dwellers are typically found in larger lakes and reservoirs, such as Lake Sakakawea. Anglers targeting lake trout often employ trolling techniques using downriggers and deep-diving lures to reach the fish in the depths. More...

North Dakota is home to numerous lakes and rivers that support trout populations, providing anglers with a range of options for pursuing their favorite species. Lake Sakakawea, Devils Lake, and the Missouri River are popular destinations for trout fishing, offering ample opportunities to land these prized fish.

When it comes to state records, North Dakota has seen some impressive catches over the years. The current state record for rainbow trout stands at a substantial weight, while brown trout and lake trout records also reflect the potential for trophy-sized catches.

Trout fishing in North Dakota is regulated by fishing seasons, limits, and specific regulations to ensure the sustainability of these populations. Anglers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the fishing regulations in the specific bodies of water they plan to fish and obtain the necessary permits before embarking on their trout fishing adventures.

Trout Fishing Waters

Most of the trout caught in ND come from streams and rivers. Lake Oahe and Garrison Tailrace have healthy populations of trout, as does sections of The Missouri River.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Select the best trout lures and baits

Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.

North Dakota State Record Trout

The state record rainbow trout was caught from Garrison Tailrace.

The state record cutthroat trout was taken out of Garrison Tailrace.

The state record brown trout came from Garrison Tailrace.

The state record lake trout was caught in Garrison Tailrace.

Visit the ND Game & Fish Department for details regarding trout stocking in ND. Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.

Brown Trout — Brown trout being released.

The 5 primary trouts are the rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.