Warm Weather Prompts Early Walleye Migration in North Dakota

Outdoor writer Mike Peluso reports that recent warm days have caused an early shift in walleye movements on the Missouri River and its tributaries.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Outdoor writer and fishing guide Mike Peluso reports that the recent warm weather in North Dakota has caused an early migration of walleyes into the tributaries of the Missouri River. Peluso notes that the influx of warm water has pulled the walleyes into the tributary flows earlier than normal, which could impact the spring fishing season. While ice fishing has remained decent on Lake Sakakawea and Lake Oahe, Peluso warns that shoreline access is becoming dangerous due to melting. He expects an early ice-out on the main river and plans to open his guiding season earlier than the usual April 1 start.

Why it matters

The early walleye migration into the tributaries could disrupt the typical spring fishing patterns on the Missouri River, as the fish may not return to the main channel until after spawning. This could affect the timing and success of the spring walleye fishing season, which is a major draw for anglers in North Dakota. Additionally, the dangerous shoreline conditions due to melting ice pose safety risks for those venturing out onto the lakes.

The details

According to Peluso, the recent warm weather has caused the tributaries of the Missouri River to open up earlier than normal, drawing walleyes into their warmer waters. This early migration could lead to the fish remaining in the tributaries until after they spawn, potentially impacting the spring fishing season on the main river channel. Peluso also notes that the shorelines of Lake Sakakawea and Lake Oahe are in poor condition due to the melting ice, making access dangerous. However, the main ice on these lakes remains in good condition. Peluso plans to open his guiding season earlier than the usual April 1 start if the river opens up early, and he urges anglers to be cautious and respectful of the fish if they encounter them in the tributaries.

  • The recent warm days and melting have caused an early influx of walleyes into the Missouri River tributaries.
  • Lake Sakakawea and Lake Oahe still have good ice conditions, but the shorelines are becoming dangerous due to melting.
  • Peluso expects an early ice-out on the main Missouri River if the warm weather continues.

The players

Mike Peluso

A Dakota Edge Outdoors contributing writer and a licensed North Dakota fishing guide specializing in walleyes on the state's premier waters.

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What they’re saying

“If this weather continues, we will see a very early ice out. The only problem I see right now is some of the major tributaries have opened up prior to the main river ice coming off.”

— Mike Peluso, Outdoor writer and fishing guide (newsdakota.com)

What’s next

Peluso plans to open his guiding season earlier than the usual April 1 start if the Missouri River opens up early due to the warm weather.

The takeaway

The early migration of walleyes into the Missouri River tributaries due to warm weather could disrupt the typical spring fishing patterns, potentially affecting the timing and success of the spring walleye fishing season in North Dakota. Anglers should be cautious of dangerous shoreline conditions and respectful of the fish if they encounter them in the tributaries.