Walleye Fishing Heats Up on Missouri River

Anglers in Bismarck, North Dakota welcome open water season

Mar. 29, 2026 at 4:34pm

An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the dynamic movement and excitement of anglers fishing on the Missouri River.Anglers in Bismarck, North Dakota welcome the return of open water season on the Missouri River, a prime destination for walleye fishing.Bismarck Today

After a long winter, anglers in Bismarck, North Dakota are excited to get back on the Missouri River and target walleye as warmer weather has melted ice and opened up boat ramps in the area.

Why it matters

The Missouri River is a popular fishing destination for locals and visitors alike, and the return of open water season is a highly anticipated annual event that signals the start of prime walleye fishing in the region.

The details

Warm weather in recent weeks has helped melt ice on the Missouri River around Bismarck, allowing anglers to access the water and launch their boats from local boat ramps. Some ramps have even installed docks, making it easier for anglers to load and unload their gear.

  • The open water season on the Missouri River typically begins in late March or early April each year.
  • Boat ramps in the Bismarck area started opening up and installing docks in the past few weeks.

The players

Missouri River

A major river that flows through the central United States, including the Bismarck, North Dakota region, and is a popular destination for walleye fishing.

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What’s next

Anglers will continue to flock to the Missouri River in the coming weeks and months as the walleye fishing heats up, with the peak season typically lasting through the summer.

The takeaway

The return of open water season on the Missouri River is an eagerly anticipated annual event for anglers in Bismarck, North Dakota, signaling the start of prime walleye fishing in the region.