RIVERDALE, N.D. - The 2013-2014 winter access policy released by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Garrison Project identifies 55 points of entry to Lake Sakakawea.
The Lake has not yet completely frozen over, but with the recent cold weather it won’t be long. The Omaha District urges everyone to exercise extreme caution. Thin ice or open water may exist near springs and pressure ridges throughout the winter.
Fishermen are encouraged to use only licensed, motorized vehicles and existing authorized public roads for entering and leaving ice fishing access areas. Some public roads often drift closed with snow and will not be plowed open. In these instances, operating a motor vehicle off-road to obtain access is not allowed.
All Title 36 Regulations apply to the Ice Fishing Access Sites. North Dakota Game and Fish WMA Regulations apply within all Wildlife Management Areas located on Corps lands around the reservoir. Additionally, North Dakota Game and Fish has specific regulations pertaining to the use of ice/fish/spearing houses within the State of North Dakota.
Have fun this winter and be safe; “ALWAYS, KNOW BEFORE YOU GO”. Check in with someone who is near the particular body of water where you are accessing. Bait shops, outfitters, game wardens, and public land managers are all valuable sources for ice condition updates.
The policy indicating the designated areas on Lake Sakakawea is available here.
For additional information contact: the Corps of Engineers Office in Riverdale (701-654-7411) or Williston (701-572-6494) or North Dakota Game & Fish Office in Riverdale (701-654-7475) or Williston (701-774-4320).
Release no. 20131211-001