Guide To Fishing At Jamestown Reservoir

AKA: Jamestown Lake

Sandy beaches, rip-rap rock and lush greenery surround Jamestown Reservoir, a 2,000-acre lake in the central part of the state, at the city of Jamestown. This winding waterway brags of having forty five miles of shoreline to fulfill your water sport fantasies.

Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Lake Video
Contact Info

Jamestown Reservoir is located in the central part of North Dakota, making it easily accessible for anglers in the region. This reservoir is a popular fishing destination known for its diverse fish population and picturesque surroundings. Anglers can enjoy a variety of fishing experiences while targeting species such as black crappie, white crappie, walleye, yellow perch, and northern pike.

Black crappie and white crappie are abundant in Jamestown Reservoir, offering exciting opportunities for panfish enthusiasts. Anglers can use small jigs, live bait, or minnows to target crappie near submerged structures, brush piles, or areas with vegetation. Crappie fishing can provide a thrilling experience and delicious table fare.

Walleye is a highly sought-after species in Jamestown Reservoir. Anglers often find success trolling with crankbaits, spinner rigs, or live bait presentations to entice these elusive fish. Walleye can be found near drop-offs, submerged humps, and areas with a transition from shallow to deeper water. Anglers who know the reservoir well can locate the prime spots for catching walleye.

Yellow perch are another popular target in Jamestown Reservoir. These tasty fish can be caught using small jigs, live bait, or small spinners. Anglers often find perch near submerged structures, weed beds, or areas with sandy bottoms. Targeting yellow perch can provide a fun and rewarding fishing experience.

Northern pike are known for their aggressive strikes and are present in Jamestown Reservoir. Anglers can target these toothy predators using larger spoons, swimbaits, or crankbaits. Northern pike can be found near weed beds, rocky points, or areas with drop-offs. Catching a northern pike can provide an adrenaline-filled fight.

Jamestown Reservoir offers excellent opportunities for boating and camping. Anglers can enjoy the calm waters and scenic views while exploring the reservoir in their boats. The camping facilities in the area provide a comfortable and convenient way to extend their fishing trip and immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.

In summary, Jamestown Reservoir in North Dakota is a popular fishing destination known for its abundance of black crappie, white crappie, walleye, yellow perch, and northern pike. Anglers can enjoy a variety of fishing experiences while surrounded by the beauty of the reservoir. Whether it's targeting crappie, walleye, perch, or northern pike, Jamestown Reservoir offers something for every angler. The boating and camping facilities make it an ideal spot for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy a complete recreational experience.

Major boat launch ramps include Jamestown Reservoir Marina Boating Access, 5 Mile Corner Boating Access and West Landing Boating Access. Numerous campgrounds, some with RV hookups, are scattered throughout the area. Fishing enthusiasts come searching for the walleye, crappie, perch and pike that roam these waters. Many areas around the boat landings, the campgrounds and undeveloped land at the north end of the lake provide ample access for fishing from the bank, or just enjoying the day.

What to fish for...

Fishing for black crappie, white crappie, walleye, yellow perch and northern pike at Jamestown Reservoir in North Dakota.

Primary fish species residing in Jamestown Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Jamestown Reservoir Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES - 3
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Jamestown Reservoir 5 Mile Corner Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off 30th Street SE, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Jamestown Reservoir Marina Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off E Lakeside Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Jamestown Reservoir West Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off 31st Street SE, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Click here for a North Dakota Fishing License.