Missouri River Fishing Report-October 5th, 2025

Written by Mike Peluso

October 6, 2025

Once again I apologize for getting this out later than expected.  I’m coaching Team ND on the weekends so my Sundays are games and traveling. 

I’m back now and I do have a fishing report for you.  I spent a couple days south on the river near Bismarck this past week.  Basically trying to stay in tune with things while I’m hoping for some decent news after tomorrow giving me the green light to start guiding again. 

Anyway, things are progressing slowly so far on the river.  Low water, warm water temps is definitely playing havoc on the fall migration and bite.  We are catching some fish.  We are not catching the numbers we would like to see quite yet. 

Another problem we are having is to fight through the so called junk fish.  I call all other fish on the river junk fish if I’m just targeting walleyes.  The biggest culprit right now are the pesky catfish.   If you want to get the kids into catching fish, you can definitely do that right now! 

The walleyes are extremely healthy and there is a ton of bait around also.  Between battling the catfish, warm and low water, and an over abundance of food, you will still catch a walleye or two.  

Jigs and minnows and jigs with crawlers are catching fish equally right now.  Sone days you have to pitch it out to get but, other days they want it vertical and barely moving. 

I think it should get better once the water temps drop.  At least that’s what I’m hoping for here in the weeks to come.  If I get the all clear for awhile tomorrow after my doctors appointment, I’ll open up the guide business again from now until freeze up! Fingers crossed.

Related Reports

Devils Lake Fishing Report-September 13th, 2026

Devils Lake Fishing Report-September 13th, 2026

So if you follow these reports you know I had a few  days fishing this week up on Devils Lake working with Jason Feldner and Percheyes Guide Service.  Devils Lake is going through what I've been calling a transition.  Unfortunately, too many people are...

ND Fishing Report-September 6th, 2026

ND Fishing Report-September 6th, 2026

The reason I don't love to guide in September is already showing itself a little.  The fish, especially on Sakakawea we become extremely difficult to catch.  They do this every September for some reason.   I have my philosophies on it, but it's too long...

Lake Sakakawea Fishing Report-August 30th, 2026

Lake Sakakawea Fishing Report-August 30th, 2026

Today I am super sad to report I'm done guiding on Lake Sakakawea for the 2026 season.  That doesn't mean I won't go up to fish maybe here and there. Last September on the eastern portion was absolutely top notch!  This season was definitely one for the...