Rising water within the Missouri River System means more boat ramps are accessible now than at any time in the past decade.
Bob Frohlich, fisheries development supervisor for the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, said all of the main recreation areas on Lake Sakakawea will have a usable ramp this summer, and every site but one is usable from the Garrison Dam to the South Dakota state line.
“Lake Oahe is back and anglers will again be able to enjoy many areas that have been high and dry for the past 10 or more years,” Frohlich said.
Of the boating access sites south of Garrison Dam, only the Sibley Park ramp south of Bismarck is unusable. However, depending on which way the wind is blowing, some ramps may become temporarily unavailable.
“Lake Oahe boaters need to exercise caution because of floating debris and logs,” Frohlich said. “Also, with the high water level boaters need to be aware of the hazards their watercraft can create.”
With all of the access sites on Lake Sakakawea usable, fisheries personnel can shift their attention to other locations, Frohlich said. “We are able to redirect our efforts and resources to other lakes and projects that need help,” he added.
Boat ramp status for the entire Missouri River System is available throughout the summer by accessing the fishing link at the Game and Fish Department website, gf.nd.gov.