Every Boat Ramp on Missouri River

About Missouri River

The Missouri River flows through the heart of North Dakota, providing hundreds of miles of diverse fishing opportunities between the state's major reservoirs. The tailwater sections below Garrison Dam and Oahe Dam are particularly productive for walleye and sauger, with current-loving fish stacking up in the eddies and wing dams throughout these stretches. Channel catfish grow to impressive sizes in the river's fertile waters, and the spring paddlefish snagging season near Williston draws anglers from across the region for a unique fishing experience.

Multiple public boat ramps along the Missouri River provide access for both powerboats and drift boats. The Bismarck-Mandan stretch is one of the most popular and accessible sections, with smallmouth bass thriving along the rocky banks and rip-rap shorelines. The river's character changes dramatically between the dam tailwaters and the free-flowing sections, offering everything from fast-water sauger fishing to slow-pool catfishing. Winter fishing for walleye and sauger through the ice on the river's backwaters and side channels is a popular local tradition.

Nearest towns: Bismarck, Mandan, Washburn