White Bass

West Fargo might not be the first place that comes to mind for white bass fishing, but the Red River and its connected waterways offer a surprisingly consistent fishery. White bass tend to school up in the main river channel and around bridge pilings, especially during their spring spawning run. This run usually occurs in May or June, as the water temperatures rise. Look for areas with current breaks and eddies, where white bass will congregate to ambush baitfish. Small crankbaits, spinners, and jigs are all effective lures. Summer can also be productive, though the fish may scatter more widely. Try fishing near the mouths of tributaries or in deeper holes in the river. Access to the Red River is available at several public access points and boat ramps in and around West Fargo. Be mindful of the river's current, which can be strong at times, especially after heavy rains. A local tip: Watch for birds diving on baitfish – this is often a telltale sign of a white bass school feeding below. White bass in the Red River are typically smaller than those found in larger reservoirs, but what they lack in size, they make up for in numbers and their aggressive feeding behavior.