Hooked on Devils Lake North Dakota’s outdoor playground

Tucked into the northeastern stretch of North Dakota is a destination that feels like it was handcrafted for travelers who crave fresh air, big fish, migrating waterfowl and even bigger hospitality. Welcome to Devils Lake — a sprawling, scenic wonderland that lures anglers, hunters and nature lovers from across the country. 

The name might sound ominous, but Devils Lake is anything but. With over 180,000 acres of water, including connected upper-basin lakes, it’s a paradise for outdoorsy types in every season. Whether you're casting for walleye in a flannel shirt or tracking geese with a thermos in hand, this place delivers the kind of outdoor magic you won’t find just anywhere. 

At the heart of it all is Woodland Resort, a family-run lodge that’s been the anchor of adventure here for more than 35 years. “My wife and I opened Woodland Resort back in 1988,” says Kyle Blanchfield, owner and lifelong advocate for Devils Lake. “We were kind of the original pioneers on the lake — lodging, restaurant, bar, marina, boat rentals, we were the first to bring it all together in one place.” 

Woodland Resort

And they’ve been perfecting the experience ever since. 

Woodland Resort shines particularly bright in the fall and winter. “That’s when we cram in the best hunting and fishing of the whole year,” Kyle says. From world-class walleye fishing to guided waterfowl hunts, visitors get a front-row seat to the best of North Dakota’s wild side. “Our fishing packages, especially the ones with the Perch Patrol guide service, are popular because they’re turnkey,” says Kyle. “People just show up — we handle the lodging and meals, and the guides take care of the rest.” 

Fall fishing in Devils Lake is especially legendary. Mornings are brisk enough for a hoodie, but by midday, anglers are stripping down to t-shirts as they reel in walleyes, northern pike, perch and the occasional white bass. “The fish are just cooperating that time of year,” Kyle says. “It’s some of the best fishing all season.” 

And it’s not just about what’s in the water or the sky. The Devils Lake community is warm, welcoming and ready to share its secrets. Whether you’re a local rediscovering your roots or a first-timer exploring the Upper Midwest, this is the kind of place that gets under your skin — in the best way. 

So pack your tackle box, grab a thermos, and say yes to that spontaneous long weekend. “I’d challenge people to put Devils Lake on their fall list,” says Kyle. “It’s a world-class fishery with world-class facilities and a whole lot of heart.” 

Ready to reel in your next great adventure? Devils Lake is waiting. 

For more information on Devils Lake, ND, please visit their website at https://www.devilslakend.com OR be directed to Devils Lake via Unplug Magazine’s website.