Augmented Reality.  On the screen and on the line, walleyes are showing up in good numbers already in the waters of the Missouri River in and around Bismarck. DEO Photo by Mike Peluso

By Mike Peluso

Things are definitely in full swing out here for walleyes on the Missouri River near Bismarck.  If you are headed out on the river, you can pick any ramp from the tailrace down to the state line and you’ll find good fishing. 

It’s crazy to see this many fish in the river already at this time of year.  Somehow, they decided to show up early and in really good numbers! 

Now catching those walleyes – especially during the busy times – can cause a little frustration.  These fish are slowly getting conditioned to motor noise, electronics (especially livescope) and boats in general. Adding to the challenge, we have very clear water conditions this year. This is also a factor especially on the sunny days, and a person has to take a stealthier approach to catching these fish.  So, keep this in mind when pulling into a spot! 

Jigs and minnows have been king for me, and they should be worked really slow and away from the boat for best results.  Jigs and plastics and shallow running cranks are also working in the right situations.  The fish are staying close to the current, it’s my belief that this time of year we are catching traveling walleyes. 

I wish I could say I had a bunch of open dates for my readers to join me, but my schedule is really busy right now.  Still reach out if you are looking to go since I do get last second cancellations from time to time. 

If you are going out on your own, there are fish in a lot of spots, so just keep moving around and you should find a good bite! 

Mike Peluso is a Dakota Edge Outdoors contributing writer and a licensed ND fishing guide specializing in walleyes on the state’s premier waters.