Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge has one of the best year-round fisheries in north-central North Dakota. Anglers may fish for walleye, northern pike, yellow perch, and smallmouth bass in Lake Darling and the Souris River. Fourteen bank fishing areas and two boat fishing areas are available. Motorboats are permitted on Lake Darling for fishing only.
A popular recreational fisheries program is available at the Refuge. This program is a cooperative effort between the Refuge, the North Dakota Game & Fish Department, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Missouri River Fish and Wildlife Management Assistance Office.
• Bank fishing is permitted in 14 designated areas. Signs stating "Public Fishing Area" are posted at each area open for fishing.
• Fishing boats, canoes, kayaks, and float tube fishing are permitted in designated fishing areas May 1 - September 30.
• Regulations set forth by the North Dakota Game and Fish Department and the Refuge must be observed.
• All Refuge waters are open to ice fishing beginning when the lake is covered with ice until the end of the State fishing season.
• ATV's, UTV's and snowmobiles are allowed on Lake Darling from south of Carter Dam to Lake Darling Dam. Access to Lake Darling for off-road vehicles will be at the same access points as those used for standard vehicles, and restricted for the purpose of ice fishing only. State law requiring registration and insurance will also apply.
• Permanent ice fishing shelters must be removed on the date set by the State for ice fishing shelter removal.
• Fishermen are cautioned to beware of thin ice, particularly near water control structures.
• The Refuge is open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm.
• For safety, all public access to water control structures is prohibited.
• Overnight camping is prohibited.
• Littering is prohibited - pack out all trash and garbage.
• Open fires on the ground and ice are prohibited.
To learn more about fishing in North Dakota, please visit the North Dakota Game and Fish Department.
