Get ready for an epic day on the water with Rudland's Guide Service at Lake Sakakawea. This ain't your average fishing trip – we're talking jaw-dropping scenery and world-class angling rolled into one unforgettable package. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, our experienced guides know exactly where the big ones are biting. We'll put you on Walleye, Northern Pike, and Smallmouth Bass that'll make your buddies back home green with envy. So grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's hit the lake!
Picture this: You're cruising across Lake Sakakawea's crystal-clear waters, surrounded by rolling hills and big sky country. Our comfy boats can handle up to four anglers, so bring your crew or make some new fishing buddies. We've got all the gear you need – rods, reels, tackle, and bait – so you can focus on reeling in the big ones. Just remember to pack some snacks, drinks, and that all-important fishing license. Oh, and don't forget the camera – you're gonna want proof of the monsters you'll be catching!
At Lake Sakakawea, we're all about matching our techniques to what's working best that day. Sometimes we'll be trolling deep water for Walleye, other times we might be casting topwater lures for aggressive Pike. Our guides have been fishing these waters for years, so they know all the secret spots and tricks of the trade. We'll show you how to read the lake, set up your rig just right, and present your bait in a way that'll have fish practically jumping in the boat. And don't worry if you're new to this – we love teaching folks the ropes and watching them reel in their first big catch.
Walleye: These golden-eyed beauties are the pride of Lake Sakakawea. Known for their tasty white flesh, Walleye put up a great fight and are a blast to catch. They tend to hang out in deeper water during the day, so we'll often use bottom bouncers or jigs to entice them. The best Walleye fishing usually happens in spring and fall, but we catch them year-round. Nothing beats the thrill of feeling that distinctive Walleye "tap-tap" on your line!
Northern Pike: If you're after a real freshwater fighter, look no further than the Northern Pike. These toothy predators are ambush hunters, often lurking in weed beds or near drop-offs. We target them with big spoons, crankbaits, or live bait under a bobber. Pike fishing heats up in early summer and again in the fall. When a big Northern hits, hold on tight – these guys are known for epic battles and acrobatic jumps that'll get your heart racing!
Smallmouth Bass: Don't let the name fool you – there's nothing small about the fight these bronze beauties put up. Smallmouth Bass in Lake Sakakawea love rocky areas and points, where we'll tempt them with soft plastics, jigs, or topwater lures. The bass fishing here is hot from late spring through early fall. Pound-for-pound, many anglers consider Smallmouth the hardest-fighting freshwater fish, so get ready for some serious action when you hook into one of these bad boys.
Lake Sakakawea isn't just about the fish – it's the whole package that keeps folks coming back year after year. Where else can you cast a line surrounded by pristine wilderness, with a chance at trophy-sized fish on every cast? Our guests rave about the peace and quiet out on the water, broken only by the splash of a jumping fish or the cry of an eagle overhead. And let's not forget the bragging rights – when you're showing off photos of that monster Pike or limit of Walleye, your fishing buddies won't believe their eyes. Plus, with our expert guides handling all the details, you get to focus on what matters: enjoying a perfect day on the water and making memories that'll last a lifetime.
Alright, folks – if you're itching to wet a line on Lake Sakakawea, now's the time to lock in your trip with Rudland's Guide Service. We've got the local knowledge, the right gear, and the passion for putting you on fish. Whether you're dreaming of battling a trophy Northern, filling the livewell with tasty Walleye, or experiencing the thrill of Smallmouth Bass fishing, we've got you covered. Just remember, spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. So don't wait – give us a call or hit that "Book Now" button. We can't wait to show you why Lake Sakakawea is North Dakota's best-kept fishing secret. See you on the water!
Northern Pike are the lake's apex predators, averaging 2-3 feet long but capable of growing much larger. These ambush hunters love hanging out in weedy shallows and along drop-offs, especially during cooler months. They're not picky eaters, gulping down anything from small fish to frogs and even ducklings. Pike fishing really heats up in spring and fall when they're most active in shallow water. Anglers love targeting pike for their aggressive strikes and powerful fights. Be ready for some acrobatics when you hook one! To improve your odds, try slow-trolling large spoons or crankbaits near weed edges. Just watch those teeth when unhooking - they're no joke. Pike make for some tasty eating too, especially the smaller ones under 28 inches or so.
Smallmouth Bass in Lake Sakakawea are feisty fighters, usually 2-4 pounds but some topping 6. These bronze beauties love rocky habitat - look for them around boulders, gravel bars, and steep shorelines in 5-20 feet of water. They're most active in warmer months, especially morning and evening. Spring is prime time as they move shallow to spawn. Anglers target smallies for their acrobatic jumps and never-say-die attitude on light tackle. They're also excellent eating, with firm white meat. To hook into more smallmouth, try working tube jigs or soft plastics slowly along rocky points and shelves. One local secret: On calm days, walking a topwater bait near shore can produce explosive strikes. Just be ready to hold on - pound for pound, these are some of the hardest fighting fish in the lake!
Walleye are the bread and butter of Lake Sakakawea fishing. These golden-olive fish typically run 15-20 inches, with bigger ones topping 10 pounds. They prefer cooler, deeper water during the day, moving shallow to feed at night. Look for walleye along drop-offs, rock piles, and weed edges in 15-30 feet of water. Spring and fall are prime seasons when they're most active. Anglers love walleye for their excellent table fare - mild, flaky white meat that's hard to beat. They can be finicky biters, so presentation is key. Try slow-trolling with bottom bouncers and crawler harnesses, or jigging minnows along structure. One local trick: Use a stinger hook on your jig to nab short-striking fish. The fight isn't spectacular, but the reward of fresh walleye for dinner makes it all worthwhile.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 59
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 350