By Mike Peluso
This is without question my favorite time of year when it comes to walleye fishing on the Missouri River! I wish I could slow it down and freeze time, as fall fishing always reminds me of my childhood. My dad would wait outside Roosevelt Elementary and later on Wachter Middle School for me to get out and we would fish until dark.
Of course back in 80s things were a lot quieter than they are now. If we saw another boat on the water it was like seeing a UFO. Oh, the good days of literally having an entire walleye factory basically to ourselves. So, if you see me on the water, chances are still I’m somewhere alone.
With the low water conditions on the river, and lack of boat ramps in the Bismarck area, things have been a little congested. Much like this spring, if it’s a nice day the few usable ramps can get busy and patience is important.
Once out on the river things are getting better as far as the walleye fishing is concerned. There are lots of fish on the move. Again, with the warm weather this week, water temps crept back up to the mid 50s. I’d like to see it dip into the upper 40s. I think once that happens people will be able to spread out some and fish will get closer to town.
Lake Sakakawea is really good right now and we are seeing some of those unicorn walleyes being caught down by Mobridge on Lake Oahe as well! There are lots of choices for anglers to get out and take in the last of the open water season.
Jigs and minnows have been best presentation on the Missouri River this week, which is my absolute favorite way to fish!
If you are looking to get on the water, I have openings for you so get ahold of me!
Mike Peluso is a Dakota Edge Outdoors contributing writer and a licensed ND fishing guide specializing in walleyes on the state’s premier waters.
Featured Photo: A Warm Autumn Walleye. Warmer than average weather conditions have kept walleye fishing solid on the Missouri River over the past several weeks. A cool down will likely trigger more fish movement upstream. DEO Photo by Mike Peluso.
