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Best Fishing Spots Near Fargo
From the river in town to a worth-the-trip lake day — where to wet a line with the kids.
The Red River runs right through town and the lakes country to the east is some of Minnesota's best. You can be casting within minutes of downtown, or make a day of it out toward Detroit Lakes.
Close to home
Bank and shore access within the metro — perfect for short attention spans.
Red River access pointsCatfish, walleye; multiple park accessesVisit ↗Lindenwood Park, FargoEasy river access, restrooms nearbyVisit ↗Stormwater ponds & city lakesOften stocked; great for first-timersVisit ↗
Worth the drive
Detroit Lakes area, MNClassic lakes-country fishing56 min · 46 mi from downtown Fargo · Google Maps, September 21, 2026Visit ↗
Lakes near Hawley, MN33 min · 23 mi from downtown Fargo · Google Maps, September 21, 2026
Wahpeton / Bois de Sioux57 min · 47 mi from downtown Fargo · Google Maps, September 21, 2026Look it up ↗Dad Tip
Kids under 16 generally don't need a license, but you do — and ND and MN rules differ. Check the right state for where you're standing.
From the blog: 5 a.m. on the Red: Dawn Fishing With Kids
More in this section: Dad Guides in Fargo-Moorhead