Snowed In.  While some ramps along the Missouri River north of Bismarck are beginning to open, others will need some work, especially with this week’s snow forecast.  DEO Photo by Mike Peluso.

By Mike Peluso

I’m glad I took a little drive up River Road north of Bismarck this morning. Rumor had it the Wilton Boat Ramp on the Missouri River had recently been opened.  Burleigh County equipment has not been in there yet. However, the city of Washburn has! That boat ramp is open and ready for boats, but there is no dock in place yet.

As of the morning of April 2, the Missouri River is completely open to Double Ditch which is one mile by water from my home. I would anticipate with the Warner temps and the heavy winds right now for it to open up some more today.

I know they are calling for snow on Tuesday and Wednesday. This will not affect the river situation. The good news for now is that the storm looks to be staying more south and east. I’m guessing we will get some more snow, but it won’t be crippling.

I am started my spring guide operations on Thursday April 6. I’ll most likely be at either the tailrace or Washburn area to start unless Burleigh County gets at the Wilton ramp. Time will tell!

It seems like the snow is melting slow and some of it is making it to the ground. My hopes here locally is that it will soak into the ground if the frost lifts. Though it sounds like we don’t have the frost line like in winters past. If that happens it will definitely help with muddy water conditions.

The main culprit when it comes to mud  is usually the Knife River just north of Washburn. I’m hoping the Stanton landing gets pushed off here soon also! If the Knife starts pouring mud, you can get up above it and still be able to fish with that access option.

I don’t have a ton of openings left for this spring on the river. There may be a couple if you have a flexible schedule. I am also filling up my summer schedule for both Sakakawea and Devils Lake. Things are going to get busy here and I’m looking forward to it!