Lake Sakakawea is a diver's dream with 14 miles of water to explore with some interested wrecks to enjoy as well. Lake Sakakawea is home to a variety of different fish, including schooling carp, bass, and walleye, cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout, plus perch and crappie.
No matter which portion of Lake Sakakawea you plan to enjoy, be sure to check in with one of the local dive shops, which offer trips to the dam face and tail race, which a great spot for drift is diving. Rock formations, as well as fossils, can be found on the lake bed, and there are many shallow bays where tall aquatic grasses shelter fish, turtles, frogs, crayfish, and other creatures are found.
The best time for scuba diving in North Dakota is from June to September, when water temperatures are warmer and conditions are more comfortable. Summer provides the best visibility and surface weather. Spring and autumn dives are possible but colder, often requiring thicker exposure protection. Winter diving is limited due to ice cover. Seasonal planning ensures the safest and most enjoyable North Dakota diving experience.
Divers are recommended to wear a 5/7mm wetsuit in the warmer months and may way to opt for a drysuit.
Minot International Airport (MOT) boasts the newest and largest commercial terminal in the state of North Dakota.
Accessing North Dakota dive sites typically begins with flights into Bismarck or Fargo, followed by road travel to lakes and reservoirs. Many sites are accessible via public boat ramps and shoreline entry points. Local dive shops provide equipment rental, training, and guided dives where available. With accessible freshwater locations and minimal crowds, diving in North Dakota is convenient for inland divers and training activities.
Technical Diving
Freediving
Emergency First Response
FREE – Introduction to Scuba Diving Online
Marine Debris
Shark & Ray Protection
Adopt a Dive Site
