Lake Sakakawea -- What to Expect

[JackSalmon]

We are going to Lake Sakakawea, Dakota Waters Resort, to fish for walleye, first week of June. What should we expect as far as tactics, baits, etc? We have a guide for a day, but would just like to know what to expect. Thanks, Jacksalmon

[Go Ranger]

JackSalmon, in early June on Sak. I suspect you will be pitching jigs into shallow water and/or dragging lindy rigs in the 10 foot range. If it's anything like last year, the walleyes remain in the weeds throughout May, June, and even July. Pitching jigs to the edges of the weeds worked real well. Some of my best luck came dragging lindy rigs in about 8-12 feet of water, though. Depending on water temps, cranking shallow water may also be working by then. Overall, I would expect to be fishing shallow, but you never know what Mother Nature will do. Just my 2 cents.

[REW]

If you want some long runs - and if you are hiring a guide - you might get a taste of some salmon fishing. Some nice fish in that lake, and at times - lots of action.

typically the salmon and walleyes won't be in the same spots, nor use the same tactics, so you will have to decide, which species to go for.

Take care
REW

[Dakota Kid]

Actually, you CAN catch both species using the same tactic, and it happens quite often. Many times looking for suspended walleye, you'll run into salmon as well. Very exciting and keeps things interesting. I've even seen salmon caught when pitching jigs to the shallows in the spring. Surprised me as well.