Knife River
Knife River
- Boat Ramps
- 1
- Access Points
- 1
- Species
- 7
The Knife River in North Dakota offers anglers a unique fishing experience with its clear waters, moderate flow, and diverse ecosystem. Located in Dunn and Mercer counties, this approximately 90-mile tributary of the Missouri River winds gracefully through North Dakota's landscape, creating a diverse ecosystem with abundant wildlife and rich fishing opportunities. The river is characterized by its clear waters, moderate flow, and variety of natural features that enhance the fishing experience. Connected to the Missouri River, the Knife River provides access to a variety of fish species and serves as both a recreational destination and an important ecological resource.
Species & education
Learn what type of fish are at Knife River and what's needed to catch them.
Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities
Learn how to get on Knife River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.
Know where you can legally fish on Knife River
See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.
North Dakota licenses and regulations
North Dakota Boating Regulations
When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.
North Dakota Fishing License
Residents and Nonresidents under 16 years old and older are not required to have a fishing license
North Dakota Fishing Regulations
This state has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this state is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.
North Dakota Stream Access Laws
Any person, before commencing any construction for the purpose of appropriating waters of the state or before taking waters of the state from any constructed works, shall first secure a water permit from the state engineer unless such construction or taking from such constructed works is for domestic or livestock purposes or for fish, wildlife, and other recreational uses.
Take Knife River with you
The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.
Use the map without signal
Download the map around Knife River to use it offline when coverage drops.
Log your catches here
Keep a private fishing journal for Knife River to find where and when fish are biting for you.
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Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)
See the best times to fish Knife River and check the forecast before you go.
KNIFE RIVER AT MANNING, ND
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