That’s a Wrap!  With cooler temperatures, catfishing is slowing on the Red River, and wait times are significantly longer to connect with fish in mid-river locations. DEO Photo by Brad Durick.

By Brad Durick

Water temperatures are coming down fast on the Red River of the north as fall settles in and I think the end is near for our consistent catfish bite this season. While the angling is never truly over, once the water temperature comes down another ten degrees it will get tough. The forecast for the next few days has some cold nights in it before it levels off again. I suspect we have a week or so left of catfishing as things wind down. 

Water levels on the Red River in north Grand Forks continue to fall but remain fishable but be careful for obstructions. South Grand Forks above the dam has lots of water. The only open ramp right now is Lincoln Park.  The New LaFave Park ramp in East Grand Forks is in and the parking lot is currently being constructed. So far it looks very nice. 

Fish patterns remain the same for now with catfish in the middle of the river mostly. Longer sit times have been a key. Forty minutes to an hour has been the ticket in some spots. Two- or three-days dead sucker remains the bait of choice. I tried fresh cut and caught nothing. Frogs are not a motivating bait either.

This is the last week I am running trips. It has been a successful season. If you would like to book for 202, please call or text 701-739-5808 for information or to book. Have a great off season!

Brad Durick is a Dakota Edge Outdoors contributing writer and a licensed ND fishing guide specializing in trophy channel catfish on the Red River in and around Grand Forks.