Fishing can be a great way to get kids outside in the summertime. With a little patience (and snacks!) you can help them learn to enjoy a new hobby. Here are some local fishing spots in Fargo (and beyond) to check out!
Where to Fish in Fargo with Kids
Note: ND residents and non-residents must have a fishing license. However, kids under the age of 15 do not need a fishing license.
NOTE: When the Red River is high, fishing may not be safe or allowed. As of July 2024 river levels are higher than normal, and fishing may not be possible.
Fargo
Trefoil Park
Fish off the shoreline of the Red River in North Fargo.
Woodhaven North Park & Fishing Pond
The Fargo Park District along with the North Dakota Game and Fish Department have stocked the fishing pond with Rainbow Trout, Bluegills, and Largemouth Bass. Cast a line off the ADA accessible fishing ramp.
Iwen Park
Venture south to Iwen Park to fish from shore or use the boat ramp and landing for access to the Red River.
Lindenwood Park
Lindenwood Park has a boat ramp and landing and kayak rentals. So, it’s a good way to further explore the Red River as you fish! The kayak launch is fully ADA compliant and designed for launching non-motorized watercraft.
North Dam
Access the Red River from this spot, close to downtown Fargo.
Woodhaven South Fishing Pond
This pond is stocked with Perch and Northern Pike and has a fishing pier for easy access to the pond.
Check out the North Dakota Game and Fish Department for additional information on ND fishing regulations and more resources on where to fish in North Dakota.
Moorhead
You can find spots to fish with kids in Fargo and Moorhead, too, off the shore of the Red River in Moorhead!
Gooseberry Park
Fish from shore or drop a line off the pedestrian bridge that crosses over to Lindenwood Park.
Viking Ship Park
Rent a kayak at the Hjemkomst Landing and explore the Red River as you fish. Note: kayaks are rented on a first come first served basis.
Riverfront Park
Take in scenic views of the conservation area as you fish! The restoration of native plants in Riverfront Park began in 2018.
Memorial Park
Fish off the pedestrian bridge that connects to Oak Grove Park in Fargo and enjoy the amenities nearby.
River Oaks Park – South Dam
Cast a line into the Red River and check out the conservation area, part of the Urban Woods and Prairies Initiative.
Bring your dog along for fishing and check out the nearby dog park!
M.B. Johnson Park
Venture up to North Moorhead to try shore fishing or use the boat ramp. Bring your bikes and hit up the paved and dirt trails at this expansive park.
Boat launches in Fargo are available at M.B. Johnson Park, Convent Landing (just north of Riverview Place, Fargo), and Dike East Launch (Dike East Park, Fargo).
Check out information from the Riverkeepers Organization for more ways to enjoy the Red River in Fargo-Moorhead and Red River safety tips.
West Fargo
Brooks Harbor Fishing Pond
Just off the Interstate in West Fargo, pack year gear and head to this stocked pond for easy access to shore fishing. And check out the nearby playground.
Fishing Outside Fargo/Moorhead
Brewer Lake
Located just 20 minutes away in Erie, ND, Brewer Lake is a great spot for summer or winter fishing! Find a fishing map here for more details on what to catch!
Blue Eagle Lake, Barnesville, MN
Cast a line in on the shore or at the MN DNR fishing dock on this man-made lake and explore the town of Barnesville, just 30 minutes east of Fargo-Moorhead.
Detroit Lake
Venture a bit further outside the area to Big Detroit and Little Detroit. There are public access points on both and City Beach is fun for swimming!
Pack a picnic and make it a day trip, or refuel with pizza from Zorbaz.
Buffalo River State Park
Fish along the Buffalo River for white sucker, river redhorse, and goldeye. And enjoy scenic views and trails.
Jamestown Reservoir
At just an hour away, this makes for a great spot for summer or winter fishing! Find more details here.
Maplewood State Park
Maplewood State Park has eight major lakes and numerous ponds, all with good fishing.
Glendalough State Park
Go for pan fish on Annie Battle Lake. And if you’re new to the sport, borrow a fishing kit from the Park Office.
We hope the fish are biting!
And for more information on how to get kids fishing, check out this Beginner’s Guide.
What are some of your favorite local spots to fish with kids in Fargo? Let us know in the comments below!
