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North Dakota · Fishing
Garrison sits on the southern shore of Lake Sakakawea, one of the largest reservoirs in the country, and the fishing options around town reflect that geography.
3 spotsUpdated dailyFree to access
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Garrison sits on the southern shore of Lake Sakakawea, one of the largest reservoirs in the country, and the fishing options around town reflect that geography. The three spots listed here — Sportsmen's Centennial, Fort Stevenson State Park, and Minehan Slough — all fall into the lake fishing category, meaning you're working the same connected system of bays, inlets, and open water that defines this part of central North Dakota. Fort Stevenson State Park is the most developed access point, with a marina and boat ramp infrastructure that makes it practical for anglers trailering in from out of town. Sportsmen's Centennial offers another entry into the lake, while Minehan Slough gives you a quieter, more sheltered stretch of water that can fish differently than the main lake body, especially when wind is a factor. Walleye is the fish most people come to this area for, and northern pike and smallmouth bass round out what you're likely to encounter. None of these listings are designated gold medal or wild trout waters, so manage expectations accordingly — this is a productive reservoir fishery, not a tailwater trout destination. A valid North Dakota fishing license is required, and if you're coming from out of state, budget time to sort that before you launch.
Fort Stevenson State Park has shore fishing access along with its boat ramp, and Minehan Slough's sheltered character makes it more approachable on foot than open lake areas. That said, a boat significantly expands what you can reach on Lake Sakakawea, where the productive structure is often well offshore.
Walleye is the primary draw on Lake Sakakawea and the waters connected to it. Northern pike and smallmouth bass are also present. None of the listed spots are designated trout waters, so don't plan a trip around trout fishing here.
Fort Stevenson State Park
~9 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ND.
Hazen Bay
~17 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ND.
Garrison Dam Tailrace
~17 min drive
Moderate
Garrison Dam National Fish Hatchery
~17 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ND.
Lake Sakakawea State Park
~13 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ND.
Beulah Bay
~25 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ND.
Beaver Creek
~37 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ND.
Sportsmen's Centennial
~16 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ND.
Mckenzie Bay
~1h 8m drive
A worthwhile stop near ND.
Audubon Lake
~21 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ND.
Parshall Bay
~1h 12m drive
A worthwhile stop near ND.
Minehan Slough
~24 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ND.
Also worth it near here
Late spring through early summer is consistently productive for walleye as fish move shallow after ice-out. Fall is another strong window before the lake turns over. Midsummer midday fishing on the open lake tends to slow down, so early morning and evening outings are worth prioritizing in July and August.
A medium to medium-heavy spinning or casting rod in the 6.5 to 7.5 foot range covers most situations. Jigs tipped with live bait or soft plastics are standard walleye rigs on Sakakawea. If you're targeting pike in the slough areas, wire leaders are worth adding to your kit.
North Dakota fishing licenses are available online through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website, or in person at local sporting goods retailers and bait shops in the Garrison area. Out-of-state anglers pay a higher fee, so check current pricing before your trip and buy before you arrive to avoid any delays at the ramp.
