What You'll Find at Pelican Lake

Pelican Lake is a shallow, 3,600-acre reservoir in Mountrail County in northwestern North Dakota, roughly 30 miles south of the Missouri River. The lake holds walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch as its primary species, with occasional catfish. The water is murky and productive — typical of prairie reservoirs — which means fish are often shallow and concentrated near structure rather than scattered across open water.

The lake's shallow depth (average around 20 feet, with a maximum near 45 feet) makes it responsive to seasonal changes. Spring and fall are the most consistent periods for walleye, while pike fishing peaks in early season and again in fall. Perch are present year-round and provide reliable action, especially for anglers targeting panfish.

Access is straightforward: a public boat ramp sits on the south shore near the dam, managed by the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department. The ramp has parking and is free to use. No launch fee applies, and the facility is open year-round, though winter access depends on road conditions.

Key Takeaways

  • Pelican Lake holds walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch, with walleye most consistent in spring and fall and pike active in early season.
  • The lake averages 20 feet deep and is murky, so fish concentrate near structure — focus on the dam, drop-offs, and weed edges rather than open water.
  • A public boat ramp on the south shore near the dam provides free access year-round, with parking available.
  • North Dakota fishing licenses are required; a one-day non-resident license costs less than a multi-day option if you're visiting briefly.
  • Walleye and pike have slot limits and possession limits that vary by species — check current regulations before you fish.

Seasons and What to Expect

Spring (April through May) is the strongest period for walleye at Pelican Lake. Fish move shallow to spawn and feed heavily before and after the spawn. Target the dam area, shallow flats, and the mouths of any inlets with live bait (shiners or crawlers) or small jigs tipped with minnows. Water temperatures in the 45–55°F range trigger the best bite.

Summer (June through August) is slower for walleye but remains productive for pike and perch. Pike are less active in the heat but can be found in deeper water during the day and shallower structure at dawn and dusk. Perch fishing stays steady, especially in the morning. Jigs and live bait work well; topwater lures can draw pike strikes early and late.

Fall (September through October) brings a second strong walleye bite as water cools and fish become active again. Pike also feed aggressively before winter. This is one of the best times to fish Pelican Lake if you can time your trip for September or early October.

Winter (November through March) allows ice fishing when the lake freezes solid, typically by mid-November. Walleye, pike, and perch are all caught through the ice. Check ice thickness (at least 4 inches for walking, 5–6 inches for vehicles) and current conditions before heading out. Winter fishing requires a valid North Dakota license and follows the same species regulations as open water.

Regulations and Licensing

All anglers 16 and older must hold a valid North Dakota fishing license. Non-residents can purchase a one-day license (valid for three consecutive days) or a seven-day license; residents pay a lower annual fee. Licenses are sold online through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website, at the boat ramp, or at local sporting goods stores in nearby towns.

Walleye have a 15-inch minimum size limit with a possession limit of five fish per day. Northern pike have a 24-inch minimum size limit and a possession limit of three fish per day. Yellow perch have no minimum size but a possession limit of 25 fish per day. These regulations can change, so verify current rules on the North Dakota Game and Fish website before you fish.

Catch-and-release is allowed for all species. If you plan to keep fish, bring a cooler with ice and handle them carefully to preserve quality.

How to Fish the Lake

Pelican Lake's shallow, murky water means fish rely heavily on vibration and smell rather than sight. Live bait — shiners, crawlers, and minnows — consistently outperforms artificial lures, especially for walleye. Jigs tipped with live bait are the most versatile approach: cast near structure, let the jig settle, and work it slowly along the bottom with small hops.

The dam is the most productive area on the lake. Fish concentrate there year-round because the deeper water and current create a natural gathering point. Fish the dam face, the spillway area, and the shallow flats immediately adjacent to it. Early morning and late evening produce better results than midday.

Weed edges and shallow flats (8–15 feet) hold walleye in spring and fall. Pike hunt in and around weeds throughout the season. Perch school in open water and near structure; finding one perch often means finding dozens, so mark your spot if you connect.

Trolling works for walleye and pike, especially in summer when fish are deeper. Use crankbaits or live bait rigs and move slowly along drop-offs and structure. Casting is more efficient in spring and fall when fish are shallower and more aggressive.

Getting There and What to Bring

Pelican Lake is located near the town of Parshall, North Dakota. From Minot (the nearest city with major services), take US-2 east for about 50 miles, then head north on local roads toward Parshall. The drive is roughly 90 minutes. GPS coordinates for the boat ramp are approximately 48.4°N, 102.1°W.

The boat ramp has limited amenities — parking, a paved launch, and that's it. No fuel, food, or lodging is available at the lake itself. Parshall has a small grocery store and a few services; Minot offers full services including hotels, restaurants, and tackle shops. Plan to bring all supplies with you or stock up in Minot before heading to the lake.

Bring a fishing license, a valid ID, a cooler with ice if you plan to keep fish, and standard tackle: jigs (1/8 to 1/4 ounce), live bait, a net, and pliers. The lake can be windy, so a life jacket is essential. In spring and fall, bring layers — weather changes quickly on prairie reservoirs.

Fish Species and Tactics

Walleye are the primary target for most anglers at Pelican Lake. They respond well to live bait presentations, especially jigs tipped with shiners or crawlers. Fish the dam, shallow flats, and structure in 8–20 feet of water. Walleye are most active at dawn, dusk, and night; cloudy days often produce better daytime fishing than clear ones.

Northern pike are aggressive and can reach 30+ inches at Pelican Lake. They hunt in weeds, near structure, and along drop-offs. Pike respond to larger lures — 3- to 5-inch crankbaits, spoons, and swimbaits — as well as live bait. Early season (April–May) and fall (September–October) are best; summer pike are less active but still catchable in low-light periods.

Yellow perch school heavily and provide consistent action. They are less selective than walleye and pike, making them a good target for beginners or when other species are slow. Small jigs (1/16 to 1/8 ounce) with live bait or perch eyes work well. Fish open water and structure; once you locate a school, you can catch multiple fish from the same spot.

When to Fish and Weather Considerations

Spring (April–May) offers the most reliable walleye fishing and the best overall conditions for a first visit. Water temperatures are cool, fish are active, and the weather is mild (though variable). Expect wind — prairie lakes are exposed — and dress in layers.

Fall (September–October) is equally productive and often less crowded. Water is cooling, fish are feeding aggressively, and the weather is generally stable. September is ideal; by late October, ice-up approaches and access becomes less predictable.

Summer is slower for walleye but still worth fishing if you're in the area. Fish early and late in the day, focus on deeper structure, and target pike and perch as alternatives. Winter ice fishing is an option if you have experience and proper equipment, but it requires checking ice conditions and following safety protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Pelican Lake?

A boat is the most effective way to fish Pelican Lake because the best structure and deeper water require access to the middle and far shores. However, shore fishing is possible near the dam and along accessible banks, though it limits your options. Most anglers use small boats or pontoons.

What's the best time of day to fish?

Dawn and dusk are most productive for walleye and pike. Perch bite throughout the day but are often more active in the morning. Cloudy days can produce good midday fishing for walleye because light penetration is low in the murky water.

Can I fish in winter?

Yes, ice fishing is possible when the lake freezes solid, typically by mid-November. Check ice thickness (at least 4–6 inches) and current conditions before heading out. You still need a valid fishing license and must follow the same species regulations as open water.

What if I don't have a boat?

Shore fishing near the dam is your best option. You can also hire a guide or charter boat from Minot or nearby towns, though availability varies. Contact the North Dakota Game and Fish Department office in Minot for current guide recommendations.

Are there any restrictions on boat size or motor type?

North Dakota does not restrict boat size or motor type on Pelican Lake. However, the shallow water and murky conditions mean a smaller boat with a quiet electric motor or trolling motor is often more effective for fishing than a large boat with a big outboard.