North Dakota is known for its open ranges, untouched forests and lakes, making it an ideal place for a hunting and fishing trip. According to the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife, more than 200,000 people, including both North Dakota residents and nonresidents, took part in fishing and hunting activities there in 2006. Whether you live in the state or are just visiting, North Dakota has some options for fish and game parks for you to use.
Identification
Anglers who come to North Dakota will most commonly encounter walleye and trout. Among the state parks that offer fishing are Icelandic, Grahams Island, Doyle Memorial, Turtle River and Fort Stevenson. However, hunters are more limited in their choices in North Dakota. According to the state's Parks & Recreation Department, the only two state parks that permit hunting are Grahams Island and Fort Stevenson.
Licenses
Before you hunt or fish in North Dakota, you must obtain a license. Fishing licenses are easily obtained at local bait shops, hardware stores and grocery stores and cost only $10, as of 2010. People under the age of 16 do not need a fishing license. North Dakota only gives out hunting licenses on a lottery basis, and you must register by June to qualify. As of 2010, hunting licenses cost $20 each.
Time Frame
While anglers can fish all year, even in the winter when ice fishing is a popular sport, hunters have to adhere to a more strict set of dates. If you plan on hunting deer with a bow, you can begin hunting on October 1, but people with guns must wait until the beginning of November. Turkey hunters, however, can start shooting on October 10.
Regulations
All hunters must wear orange clothes in North Dakota when the hunting season with guns opens. Anglers are not allowed to use white suckers as bait because North Dakota wants to keep them from escaping into the ecosystem. Daily limits for fish are five walleye and three pike.
Competitions
Every July, Beaver Lake State Park holds its annual bullhead fishing tournament. It takes place in the early part of the day, and refreshments are served to competitors and spectators. Anglers can also press their luck at the Governor's Cup Walleye Fishing Derby at Fort Stevenson State Park.
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