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Lake Trout

Lake Trout

Lake trout are not native to North Dakota but have been successfully introduced through stocking programs that began in 1954.

While the species experienced peak popularity in the 1960s-70s when 12% of North Dakota anglers listed trout as their preferred species, current populations are maintained through annual stocking by the North Dakota Game and Fish Department into 45-55 lakes.

Physical Characteristics:
  • Lake trout are the largest freshwater char, capable of living up to 70 years and reaching exceptional sizes - North Dakota's state record is 16 pounds 6 ounces from Garrison Dam Tailrace.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Lake trout are typically found in deeper lakes greater than 50 feet, though they can be found at depths over 200 feet.
  • Current populations are maintained through annual stocking by the North Dakota Game and Fish Department into 45-55 lakes.

Key Locations

  • The Garrison Dam Tailrace below Garrison Dam is the state's top destination.
  • The Garrison Dam Tailrace is North Dakota's premier lake trout destination, annually stocked with 40,000 trout and home to multiple state records including a 21-pound rainbow and 31-pound brown trout.

Specific Spots

  • Target shallow areas with nearby deep water access, particularly around current areas near inlets and outlets where lake trout stage to feed.
  • In summer, focus on the 53°F thermal layer where trout suspend following baitfish schools.

Lake Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Lake Trout in North Dakota?

Effective flies include large streamers like Black Dungeons, Woolly Buggers in white and olive, Clouser Minnows, and smelt imitation patterns. Focus on baitfish patterns in colors matching local forage - white, silver, and olive work well.

When is the best time to fish for Lake Trout in North Dakota?

The best lake trout fishing in North Dakota occurs during spring and fall when water temperatures are in the optimal 46-50°F range. During spring ice-out and fall pre-spawn periods, target shallow areas. In summer, fish early morning (before 11 AM) when water is calm.

How do you catch Lake Trout in North Dakota?

Present flies with short, fast strip retrieves keeping your rod tip in the water. Lake trout have hard, bony mouths requiring strong strip strikes rather than traditional trout hook sets. For boat fishing, slow-troll large spoons or fast-troll up to 4 mph over shallow sand flats.

What do Lake Trout eat?

As apex predators, they feed on a variety of organisms from plankton and small invertebrates to fish. Young lake trout eat plankton, insects, and small invertebrates, while adults primarily consume fish including whitefish, rainbow smelt, and other baitfish.

Where do Lake Trout live in North Dakota?

Lake trout are typically found in deeper lakes greater than 50 feet, though they can be found at depths over 200 feet. Current populations are maintained through annual stocking by the North Dakota Game and Fish Department into 45-55 lakes.

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