What to Expect at Lake Audubon

Lake Audubon is a shallow, 5,900-acre reservoir in McLean County near the town of Towner, roughly 90 miles northeast of Bismarck. The lake holds walleye and northern pike as its primary species, with some yellow perch and bullhead catfish in the mix. Water depth averages 8 to 10 feet across most of the lake, with the deepest holes reaching 20 feet near the dam — a structure that shapes where fish hold and how the lake behaves through the seasons.

The lake draws anglers looking for walleye in spring and fall, when fish move into shallower water and feeding becomes predictable. Pike fishing peaks in early summer and again in fall. Because the lake is shallow and sits on the northern Great Plains, it freezes solid in winter, making it a destination for ice fishing from December through February. Summer can be productive but requires patience and knowledge of where fish retreat during heat.

Access is straightforward: a public boat ramp and parking area sit on the south shore near the dam, maintained by the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. The ramp handles most trailer boats, though the parking lot fills on weekends during peak season. Bank fishing is possible along the dam and at scattered points around the perimeter, though much of the shoreline is private land.

Key Takeaways

  • Lake Audubon holds walleye and northern pike in a shallow prairie reservoir where average depth is 8 to 10 feet, making structure and seasonal movement critical to success.
  • Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) are the most reliable times to catch walleye, when fish move into shallower feeding zones.
  • The public boat ramp on the south shore near the dam is the main access point; bank fishing is limited because most shoreline is private.
  • North Dakota fishing licenses are required for all anglers 16 and older, and walleye and pike are subject to daily bag limits that vary by species.
  • Winter ice fishing runs from December through February when the lake freezes; check ice thickness and current conditions before heading out.

Spring Walleye Fishing: April Through May

Spring is the most consistent season for walleye at Lake Audubon. As water temperature climbs from the low 40s into the 50s, walleye move out of deeper winter holes and into the shallower flats and structure zones where they feed heavily before spawning. The first two weeks of April often produce the fastest action, particularly around dawn and dusk when light is low.

Target the shallow flats on the north and west sides of the lake, where depth runs 6 to 12 feet. Jigging with live minnows — fathead minnows or shiners — is the most productive method. Drop your jig to the bottom, then work it with a slow lift-and-drop rhythm, keeping contact with the lake floor. Walleye often hold tight to bottom in spring, so patience and a sensitive rod tip matter more than speed.

Crankbaits that reach 8 to 12 feet also work well during mid-morning and afternoon hours when walleye are less light-sensitive. Crawdad-pattern and natural-color baits tend to outfish bright colors. If you have a depth finder, look for subtle rises in the lake floor — even a 2-foot bump can concentrate fish. The dam area holds fish in spring, but it also draws crowds on weekends.

Summer Conditions and Pike Opportunity

Summer at Lake Audubon is challenging for walleye because the shallow water warms quickly and fish retreat to the deepest holes — primarily near the dam and in a few scattered deep pockets. Walleye fishing slows considerably from June through August, though early morning and late evening sessions near the dam can still produce. Most anglers shift focus to northern pike during summer months.

Pike fishing peaks in June and early July when water temperature reaches the low to mid-60s. Pike are aggressive feeders in summer and will chase larger baits and lures. Cast spinnerbaits, large crankbaits, and soft plastics along weed edges and around any submerged structure. The shallow nature of the lake means pike are never far from shore — work the perimeter and any visible vegetation. Live baitfish — larger shiners or small sunfish — also draw pike strikes.

By mid-July, heat stress affects both species. If you fish summer, focus on early morning (before 8 a.m.) and evening (after 7 p.m.) sessions. Midday fishing is rarely worth the effort. Bring extra water and sun protection; the prairie offers little shade, and the lake reflects heat intensely.

Fall Fishing: September Through October

Fall rivals spring as the best season at Lake Audubon. As water temperature drops from the 60s into the 50s and then the 40s, walleye and pike both become active feeders. Fish move back into shallower water to feed heavily before winter, and the action can be fast and consistent. September is typically warmer and slower than October; the best fishing often comes in the final two weeks of September and throughout October.

Walleye fishing in fall mirrors spring tactics: jigging with live minnows on shallow flats and structure. However, fall walleye often feed throughout the day rather than concentrating at dawn and dusk. Pike are equally aggressive, and casting spinnerbaits and crankbaits along the shoreline produces steady action. The weather is also more comfortable than summer — cooler temperatures and lower humidity make long days on the water more pleasant.

October can be unpredictable. Early October often delivers excellent fishing, but as the month progresses and water temperature drops into the 40s, fish can become finicky. By late October, many anglers have already shifted to ice fishing preparation. If you plan a fall trip, aim for mid-September through mid-October for the most reliable conditions.

Winter Ice Fishing

Lake Audubon freezes solid by mid-December and remains frozen through February. Ice thickness typically reaches 18 to 24 inches by January, which is safe for vehicles and shelters. However, always check current ice conditions before heading out — the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website and local bait shops provide updates on ice thickness and safety.

Walleye and pike both remain active under the ice. Jigging with live minnows is the primary method; set up over the deeper holes near the dam or along the main channel. Many anglers use tip-ups baited with live shiners to cover more water while jigging with a second line. The bite is often slower than open water, but the solitude and consistent action draw a dedicated winter crowd.

Bring a hand auger or power auger to cut holes — the ice is thick enough that hand augers require real effort. Dress in layers; wind on the open prairie can be severe, and hypothermia is a real risk if you fall through or stay out too long in extreme cold. A portable shelter or fish house makes the experience more comfortable and safer.

Regulations and Licensing

All anglers 16 years old and older must carry a valid North Dakota fishing license. Licenses are available online through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website, at bait and tackle shops, and at many sporting goods retailers. A one-day license costs less than a full-season license if you are visiting for a short trip.

Walleye and northern pike are both regulated species with daily bag limits. Walleye limits are typically 5 fish per day with a 15-inch minimum length, though regulations can change — check the current North Dakota fishing guide before you fish. Pike limits are usually 5 fish per day with no minimum length, but again, verify current rules. Possession limits (the number of fish you can have in your possession at home) are double the daily bag limit for both species.

The lake itself has no special restrictions beyond state-wide rules. Boats must display current registration, and all boating safety laws apply. If you are new to North Dakota fishing, download the current fishing guide from the Game and Fish website — it includes detailed regulations, species information, and a map of the lake.

Access, Facilities, and Nearby Services

The public boat ramp on the south shore near the dam is the only developed access point. The parking area holds roughly 20 to 30 vehicles and fills quickly on weekends during spring and fall. There are no fuel docks, restaurants, or lodging directly at the lake. The nearest town is Towner, about 8 miles south, which has a small grocery store and a few basic services but limited dining and no hotels.

Camping is not available at the lake itself. The nearest state park with camping is Fort Stevenson State Park, roughly 40 miles south near Garrison. Private campgrounds and motels are scattered across the region; Minot, about 60 miles south, offers more lodging and dining options if you want to base yourself there and drive to the lake for day trips.

Bait and tackle shops in the region are limited. Bring your own tackle, or plan to stop in Minot before heading to the lake. Live minnows can sometimes be found at small bait shops in Towner, but availability is inconsistent — calling ahead is wise. Many anglers bring coolers with live bait from home or purchase it the day before in a larger town.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to fish Lake Audubon?

Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) are the most productive seasons. Water temperature is in the 50s, walleye and pike feed actively, and the weather is comfortable. Summer is slower for walleye but can be good for pike in June and early July. Winter ice fishing is also popular and can be productive, but requires proper safety precautions.

Do I need a boat to fish Lake Audubon?

A boat gives you access to more water and deeper structure, but it is not required. Bank fishing is possible along the dam and at scattered points around the shoreline, though most of the perimeter is private land. The dam area is the most accessible spot for bank anglers and holds fish year-round.

What size fish can I expect to catch?

Walleye typically range from 12 to 18 inches, with occasional fish reaching 20 inches or larger. Northern pike average 18 to 24 inches, and fish over 30 inches are caught regularly. The shallow water and moderate fishing pressure mean the lake produces solid numbers of keeper-sized fish rather than trophy-class fish.

Is Lake Audubon crowded?

The lake draws steady fishing pressure during spring and fall weekends, and the parking area can fill by mid-morning. Weekday fishing is much quieter. Winter ice fishing brings a smaller but dedicated crowd. Summer is the least crowded season because walleye fishing is slow and many anglers focus on other lakes.

What should I bring for a day trip?

Bring a fishing license, tackle (jigging rods and live minnows for walleye, or spinnerbaits for pike), a depth finder if you have a boat, sunscreen, water, and snacks. In spring and fall, bring layers because weather can change quickly. In summer, bring extra water and sun protection. In winter, bring a hand or power auger, a portable shelter if possible, and heavy cold-weather clothing.