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Book Bismarck, ND Fishing Charters

Find and book top fishing charters and guided freshwater trips around Bismarck

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Adults
Ages 13 or above

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Children
Ages 2 - 12

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Bismarck Fishing Charters(4 charters available)4 charters available

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Rudland’s Guide Service
Rudland’s Guide Service
Star5(8)

locationNorth Dakota

4 Yrs experience Good with kids Good with New Anglers Good with Families Freshwater Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Guests praise Darin's expertise and successful walleye limit catches

(6)
people1-4 Guests
clockIcon8 Hours

5 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$500

Check Availability
Lure-In Fishing Guide Service
Lure-In Fishing Guide Service
Star5(7)

locationSturgeon Bay, WI

43 Yrs experience Master Guide Good with kids Good with New Anglers Good with Families Freshwater Fishing Fly Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Praised for 30+ years expertise and finding fish when others can't

(7)
people1-4 Guests
clockIcon4-8 Hours

13 Trips

Available in 2 Months

Starts from$500

Check Availability
Richins River and Lake Outfitters
Richins River and Lake Outfitters
Star5(6)

locationNorth Dakota

19 Yrs experience Good with kids Good with New Anglers Good with Families Freshwater Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Praised for his local knowledge, patient teaching, and ability to find the best fishing spots

(6)
people1-3 Guests
clockIcon4 Hours

1 Trip

Available This Week

Starts from$500

Check Availability
Legendary Outdoors
Legendary Outdoors
Star5(2)

locationMissouri River

20 Yrs experience Master Guide
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Praised for his Lake Sakakawea expertise and great catches even in tough conditions

(2)
people1-4 Guests
clockIcon7 Hours

3 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$500

Check Availability

Complete Guide to Bismarck Fishing

Discover everything you need to know about fishing in Bismarck - from top species and techniques to the best times to visit.

Top Species

Learn about the most sought-after fish species in Bismarck waters

American Yellow Perch

Size

1 - 4 lbs

Length

1" - 10"

Habitat:
RiverLakeBackcountry

Brown Trout

Size

2 - 40 lbs

Length

13" - 39"

Habitat:
LakeRiver

Channel Catfish

Size

2 - 4 lbs

Length

15" - 25"

Habitat:
RiversTidal MouthsBendsWrecks

Chinook Salmon

Size

10 - 50 lbs

Length

30" - 59"

Habitat:
OnshoreNearshoreRiverLake

Coho Salmon

Size

8 - 12 lbs

Length

24" - 43"

Habitat:
LakeRiverOnshoreNearshore

Flathead Catfish

Size

4 - 60 lbs

Length

12" - 61"

Habitat:
RiverLakeFlatsBackcountry

Lake Trout

Size

5 - 15 lbs

Length

25" - 59"

Habitat:
Lake

Lake Whitefish

Size

2 - 15 lbs

Length

12" - 39"

Habitat:
Coral ReefsSandInshoreNearshore

Largemouth Bass

Size

2 - 22 lbs

Length

15" - 32"

Habitat:
LakePondRivers

Muskellunge

Size

15 - 70 lbs

Length

24" - 72"

Habitat:
Weedy EdgesRocky ShoalsShallow Waters

Northern Pike

Size

2 - 34 lbs

Length

16" - 29"

Habitat:
Onshore

Rainbow Trout

Size

1 - 8 lbs

Length

16" - 34"

Habitat:
RiverLake

Smallmouth Bass

Size

1 - 4 lbs

Length

12" - 27"

Habitat:
LakeRiver

Steelhead Trout

Size

2 - 35 lbs

Length

12" - 46"

Habitat:
Coastalrivers

Striped Bass

Size

10 - 81 lbs

Length

20" - 55"

Habitat:
RiverLakeOnshoreNear shore

Walleye

Size

1 - 10 lbs

Length

12" - 42"

Habitat:
LakeRiver

White Bass

Size

1 - 5 lbs

Length

10" - 18"

Habitat:
LakeRiver

Why Book Adventure in Bismarck

Bismarck, North Dakota, sits at the heart of some of the most productive freshwater fishing in the United States, making it an ideal destination for anglers of every skill level. With access to the Missouri River, Lake Sakakawea, and several nearby lakes, this region is known for consistent action, wide-open water, and diverse fish species. Booking fishing charters in Bismarck North Dakota allows anglers to experience local waters with knowledgeable guides who understand seasonal patterns, water conditions, and the best techniques for landing a great catch. Whether you’re planning a short fishing trip or a full fishing adventure, Bismarck offers memorable opportunities rooted in true North Dakota waters.

One of the biggest draws to the area is Lake Sakakawea, one of the largest reservoirs in North America and a premier destination for fishing. Lake Sakakawea fishing is known for its excellent populations of northern pike, smallmouth bass, white bass, catfish, and lake trout. The sheer size of the lake makes hiring a fishing charter especially valuable, as a skilled charter captain can put anglers on productive water quickly using a well-equipped boat. Local operations like Big Lake Guide Service and Legendary Outdoors provide professional, hands-on experiences, offering everything from bait and tackle to reels, instruction, and even fish cleaning at the end of the day.

The Missouri River runs directly through Bismarck North Dakota, offering excellent river fishing opportunities for anglers who prefer moving water. This stretch of river is ideal for targeting catfish, smallmouth bass, and other freshwater species, and it provides a different kind of challenge compared to large open lakes. Guided river trips are perfect for anglers who want a relaxed yet productive day on the water, with guides adjusting techniques to match current conditions and individual skill level. These trips are especially popular among anglers looking for a hands-on, educational fishing experience.

Beyond Bismarck, anglers often explore destinations like Devils Lake, which is widely known across North Dakota for its shallow-water fishing and incredible numbers of fish. Combined with Lake Sakakawea and the Missouri River, the region offers a variety of environments that keep every fishing adventure fresh and exciting. State oversight from the North Dakota Game and fish department helps ensure healthy fisheries, making the area a consistent producer year after year.

Many guides in the region specialize in customized trips, including private charters designed for families, small groups, or serious anglers seeking trophy fish. These experiences focus on comfort, safety, and success, whether you’re an expert angler or new to freshwater fishing. Guides provide local insight, seasonal strategies, and proven methods, helping anglers make the most of their time on the water. While species like striped bass, red drum, speckled trout, and Spanish mackerel are more commonly associated with places like Chesapeake Bay or Solomons Island, Bismarck’s freshwater fisheries deliver their own brand of excitement that rivals coastal destinations.

Anglers visiting from neighboring states like South Dakota or traveling across the United States often choose Bismarck for its uncrowded waters and high success rates. Whether you’re chasing trophy-sized fish, enjoying a peaceful day outdoors, or planning an action-packed adventure, the region offers something special. With experienced guides, reliable equipment, and access to some of the best lakes and rivers in the Midwest, fishing charters in Bismarck North Dakota provide an unforgettable way to experience the state’s natural beauty.

From the vast open waters of Lake Sakakawea to the steady flow of the Missouri River, Bismarck delivers a fishing experience that blends simplicity, skill, and excitement. Every trip is shaped by the water, the weather, and the passion of local anglers who know these fisheries inside and out. For anyone looking to enjoy world-class freshwater fishing in a relaxed, authentic setting, Bismarck stands out as a destination worth exploring.

Top Activitiesgreen-underline in Bismarck

Experience the Best of Bismarck — Enjoy unforgettable adventures, stunning views, and relaxing moments that capture the true spirit of this beautiful destination.

Fishing
Fishing
Water sports
Water sports

Ratings & Reviews Summary in Bismarck

AI ReviewAI Generated Review Summary

Fishing in Bismarck, North Dakota offers excellent angling opportunities on Lake Sakakawea, where guides consistently deliver successful catches in both favorable and challenging conditions. The expansive reservoir provides diverse fishing experiences, with local expertise helping anglers adapt to changing weather patterns including post-storm situations. Guides demonstrate strong professionalism and personable service, creating quality fishing adventures that combine technical skill with excellent customer care. The lake's reliable fishing success and knowledgeable guide services make it an attractive destination for anglers seeking consistent results and professional guidance in North Dakota's premier fishing waters.

Top Reviews

BismarckRating5 / 5

Based on 25 reviews by Guidesly users

M

Michael

May 31, 2025

Trip taken May 30, 2025

Inshore, AM - 8 hours Trip
Trip Time
7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Guests
2 Guests
Thoroughly enjoyed out 8 hour fishing trip. No complaints. All good memories. Looking forward to our next outing with him.
review image 0

Guide Darin Rudland

Replied on June 15, 2025

Michael Hamilton, Thank you! You folks were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip. A great group thanks guys!
Rudland’s Guide Service
Rudland’s Guide Service
Star5(8)

locationNorth Dakota

4 Yrs experience Good with kids Good with New Anglers Good with Families Freshwater Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Guests praise Darin's expertise and successful walleye limit catches

(6)
people1-4 Guests
clockIcon8 Hours

5 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$500

Check Availability
CA

Carl Aberle

June 25, 2024

Guests
1 Guest
Hunter is a great young man. Very knowledgeable about lake sakakawea and managed to help with a great catch for me and my son even after post storm conditions. I would definitely recommend him to anyone!
Legendary Outdoors
Legendary Outdoors
Star5(2)

locationMissouri River

20 Yrs experience Master Guide
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Praised for his Lake Sakakawea expertise and great catches even in tough conditions

(2)
people1-4 Guests
clockIcon7 Hours

3 Trips

Available This Week

Starts from$500

Check Availability
N

Norbert

May 16, 2022

Guests
1 Guest
Our group of four caught two of our personal biggest walleyes.
Lure-In Fishing Guide Service
Lure-In Fishing Guide Service
Star5(7)

locationSturgeon Bay, WI

43 Yrs experience Master Guide Good with kids Good with New Anglers Good with Families Freshwater Fishing Fly Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Praised for 30+ years expertise and finding fish when others can't

(7)
people1-4 Guests
clockIcon4-8 Hours

13 Trips

Available in 2 Months

Starts from$500

Check Availability
D

Doug

June 10, 2018

Guests
1 Guest
I had the pleasure of fishing with Captain Eric Richins and it was a great experience! He was knowledgeable, friendly, and professional. He was also great with my kids, taking time to explain the basics of fishing and answering all their questions. I had a wonderful day on the water and caught some fish too! I highly recommend Captain Eric Richins for any fishing trip; you won't be disappointed!
Richins River and Lake Outfitters
Richins River and Lake Outfitters
Star5(6)

locationNorth Dakota

19 Yrs experience Good with kids Good with New Anglers Good with Families Freshwater Fishing
aireviewGuest Reviews Say:

Praised for his local knowledge, patient teaching, and ability to find the best fishing spots

(6)
people1-3 Guests
clockIcon4 Hours

1 Trip

Available This Week

Starts from$500

Check Availability

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about booking and enjoying your Bismarck Fishing charter experience.

FAQs about Bismarck

Who are the best rated guides in Bismarck?

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