Missouri River Fishing Report-December 4th, 2023

Written by Mike Peluso

December 4, 2023

I have to apologize for this weeks fishing report being a day late. It was my oldest daughters birthday yesterday and the day just slipped away from me.

Anyway, not much has changed in the way of fishing the open water near Bismarck on the Missouri River. It’s been a fall to remember that’s for sure.

If this fall is any indication of what will happen this spring…it’s going to epic! I have never in my 45 plus years fishing this river seen the amount of fish in the 14 to 20 inch range in my life. It’s been absolutely crazy at times.

I have 3 more open water guide trips left for 2023 this week and I promise I will start reporting on the ice fishing. Hopefully.

Speaking of ice fishing, a few are venturing out on this ice in areas across North Dakota. At the moment it is not safe for clients so we are backing off our trips for this week. I will reevaluate after the weekend.

Until the weekend it’s gonna be hook sets galore!

Related Reports

Missouri River Fishing Report- April 26th, 2026

Missouri River Fishing Report- April 26th, 2026

The spawn is on.  I'm never overly excited about the spawn on the river each spring.  It always marks me nearing the end of my spring river guiding.   The one thing I'll say however, is it's definitely earlier this spring.   Not sure if thats due...

Missouri River Fishing Report-April 19th, 2026

Missouri River Fishing Report-April 19th, 2026

For some reason this spring the winter weather just doesn't want to give up her bounty.  I've fished everyday day this week except for Friday when we got 3 inches of snow and bitterly cold weather.   So what's happening out on the river?  It's been a...

Missouri River Fishing Report-April 12th, 2026

Missouri River Fishing Report-April 12th, 2026

Im so sorry I'm getting this report out later today than normal.  The guide season is in full swing and my daughters definitely keep me busy as well.  Anyway, what can I really say about the fishing on the Missouri River? Honestly, it's incredible right...