North Dakota · Fishing
Fishing in Saint John, North Dakota
Saint John sits in the Rolette County lake district of north-central North Dakota, and the fishing here is straightforward lake fishing without a lot of fanfare.
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Saint John sits in the Rolette County lake district of north-central North Dakota, and the fishing here is straightforward lake fishing without a lot of fanfare. The three lakes in and around town — Bu Lake, Broom Lake, and Walker Lake — are all accessible for anglers looking for a quiet day on the water without driving hours to a major reservoir. These are smaller prairie lakes, which means they warm up faster in spring and can stratify in summer heat, so timing your visits matters more than it might on a larger body of water. North Dakota Game and Fish manages stocking across lakes like these throughout the region, so species availability can shift year to year. Your best bet before any trip is checking the ND Game and Fish current stocking reports and the online license portal. Access points vary by lake, so confirming public access before you load the truck is worth the five minutes it takes. This is practical, low-key fishing — good for families, good for anglers who want to get a line in the water without a crowd.
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of fish can I expect to catch at Bu Lake, Broom Lake, and Walker Lake?
These are prairie lakes in Rolette County, and species like perch, walleye, northern pike, and bass are common in the region's smaller lakes. The specific mix at each lake depends on stocking history and natural reproduction, so check the North Dakota Game and Fish stocking reports for current species information before your trip.
What fishing license do I need to fish these lakes?
You need a valid North Dakota fishing license, available through the ND Game and Fish Department website or at local vendors. Non-residents pay a higher rate and can purchase short-term licenses if you're only visiting for a few days. Check the current regulations booklet for any special rules that apply to Rolette County waters.
What time of day is best for fishing Bu Lake, Broom Lake, or Walker Lake?
Early morning and the hour or two before sunset are consistently the most productive windows on smaller prairie lakes like these, especially in summer when midday water temperatures push fish deeper or into shaded structure. In spring and fall, fish are more active throughout the day and you have more flexibility.
What gear should I bring for lake fishing around Saint John?
A medium-light to medium spinning setup covers most situations on these lakes. Bring a mix of jigs, small crankbaits, and live bait rigs — nightcrawlers and leeches are reliable producers on North Dakota prairie lakes. A landing net, a cooler if you plan to keep fish, and a current copy of the regulations are all worth having in the truck.
Are these lakes accessible for shore fishing, or do I need a boat?
Access varies by lake, and not all public fishing sites in the region have developed boat ramps or confirmed shore access. Before you go, verify access points through the ND Game and Fish public fishing site finder or contact the local county office. A small kayak or canoe opens up more options if you have one available.
