Red River
North Dakota · river · approx 46.20, -96.80
Located in North Dakota, Red River is classified as a river with approximate coordinates 46.200, -96.800. Anglers target Catfish, Walleye here, and the links below open the regulations, stocking, and license details you need for a compliant trip.
About this water
A notable public water body in North Dakota.
Fishing characteristics
As a river, Red River is shaped by current, clarity, and flow. Species use seams, eddies, and slack water, and dam releases or rainfall can quickly change where fish hold.
Target species
- Catfish — Catfish are bottom-feeding warm-water fish that take cut bait, live bait, and stink baits, often after dark.
- Walleye — Walleye are low-light predators of lakes and rivers, famed for firm, tasty fillets and trolled bites.
Access notes
River access at Red River ranges from wade-in banks and bridges to boat ramps; check flow, private-property boundaries, and put-in and take-out points. Confirm current access, any required permits, and local closures with North Dakota Game and Fish Department before you travel.
Applicable regulations
North Dakota size/bag limits, seasons, and gear rules apply to this water.
View North Dakota license & limits →
Print a compliance checklist (PDF) →
Waterbody-specific rules
No special waterbody-specific regulation is on file for Red River. It is governed by the general North Dakota fishing regulations (statewide size/bag limits, seasons, and gear rules). Always confirm with the state agency before fishing.
View North Dakota license & limits →
Print a compliance checklist (PDF) →
Stocking notes
Stocking totals for North Dakota are pending verification. See the North Dakota stocking profile →
More public waters in North Dakota
Plan beyond Red River. These public waters are also in North Dakota and fall under the same state rules.
Planning your trip to Red River
A valid North Dakota fishing license is generally required to fish public waters — buy it from North Dakota Game and Fish Department before you go, and check seasonal closures and any gear restrictions for river waters. The links above open the official North Dakota license, limits, and stocking pages.
When to fish Red River
Rivers fish best with stable, clear flows; spring runoff and dam releases change conditions fast.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a license to fish Red River?
Public waters in North Dakota generally require a state fishing license for anyone past the minimum age; check North Dakota Game and Fish Department for exact rules and any free-fishing days.
What species can I target here?
This water is associated with Catfish, Walleye.