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 on a bandwagon of doom and gloom for the lake.   I want to set the record straight and explain what is really happening. 

Sure the fishing has been tougher.  Especially for Devils Lake standards.  This doesn’t mean the fishing is bad.  It’s just makes it more challenging, and if you are someone who just heads out there expecting it to be easy like it used to be, you are in for an awakening. 

So to start, you have to be a fisherman right now.  What I mean by this, is you have to be a little more detailed and persistent.  I marvel at the guides I get to work with up there at how good they are at their craft.  Even when conditions are ugly, they are still going to give you a chance at having a good day on the water.  

I mentioned transition earlier.  Let me explain a little.  For years DL was littered with flooded trees.  There are still flooded trees but not like it was.  Those trees were easier to fish for folks. 

Now, instead of those trees you see a ton of weeds now instead.  These weeds on DL are not fishing friendly!  Add in clearer water, runoff and tons of bait,  the once easy to catch walleyes are not as easy anymore. 

There are still plenty of walleyes to be caught on Devils, but you really have to approach it differently.  This is where I said detail and persistence pays off.  That was exactly what we had to do while I was there.  

Without this getting too long, electronics and how you try and catch the fish plays a huge factor.  Not to mention having patience.  If you go into with that mindset,  you’ll be successful!  I would also add if there is ever a time to hire a guide on Devils Lake, now is the time! 

I’ll be firing up on the river starting this week to get ready for fall guide trips that will begin October 1st on the river near Bismarck.  Get ahold of me to book a fun jig catching bite!