Fargo, North Dakota

What's biting

• Northern Pike

  Where: Red River backwaters, oxbow lakes, and shallow bays of larger prairie reservoirs; look for weed edges and structure.

  Early fall is prime pike season as water cools. Cast medium spinnerbaits or 10–15 cm (4–6 in) soft plastics along vegetation; pike are aggressive now. Fish dawn and dusk, or overcast periods.

  Caution: Pike have sharp teeth; use a steel leader or bite tippet.

• Walleye

  Where: Red River main channel and deeper holes; prairie lakes 3–5 m (10–16 ft) depth zones.

  Walleye bite improves as water temperature drops below 20°C (68°F). Jig with live minnows or soft plastics; work structure slowly. Evening and night are most productive.

  Caution: None.

• Largemouth Bass

  Where: Shallow bays, cattail marshes, and weed beds of prairie lakes and Red River backwaters.

  Still active in early fall; target shallow cover with topwater lures or soft plastics early morning and late afternoon. Water is cooling but not yet cold.

  Caution: None.

• Perch (Yellow Perch)

  Where: Prairie lakes and Red River; schools form in 2–4 m (6–13 ft) of water as fall progresses.

  Excellent panfish bite now. Small jigs tipped with minnow or waxworm; work slowly in schools. Often found near structure and drop-offs.

  Caution: None.

• Channel Catfish

  Where: Red River main channel, deeper holes, and slower backwater sections.

  Still active before water cools further. Fish cut bait or stink bait on the bottom at dawn or dusk. Catfish bite improves with slight wind and cloud cover.

  Caution: None.