Devils Lake
🏙️2 attractions

Devils Lake

Devils Lake, North Dakota

The Perch Capital of the World

About this city

Also known as: The Perch Capital of the World

Devils Lake is a vibrant, expanding city serving as the county seat of Ramsey County, dynamically positioned in the lake-dotted glaciated plains of northeastern North Dakota. The city takes its enigmatic name from a translation of the native Dakota Indian term 'Spirit Lake,' referencing the deep, mysterious waters that completely envelope the region. Over the past few decades, Devils Lake has experienced historic flooding that expanded the lake to massive proportions, creating an unparalleled, flooded-forest ecosystem that has transformed the city into the undisputed 'Perch Capital of the World.' Today, Devils Lake thrives as a premier regional commercial center and a legendary destination for elite freshwater fishermen, outdoor sports lovers, and waterfowl hunters.

Location & Administrative

County
Ramsey County
Time Zone
CST
State Code
ND

Transportation & Accessibility

Nearest Airports
DVLGFK
Rail Systems
Amtrak (Intercity Rail)
Train Stations
Devils Lake Amtrak Station
Getting Around
Car RequiredRideshare-Friendly

Weather & Timing

Best Months
MayJunJulAugSep
Average Temperature
Peak Season
Fishing SeasonSummer Vacation Season
Off Season
Deep Freeze SeasonBlizzard Season

Economics & Local Vibe

Population
City proper 72.0K
Sales Tax
6.75%
Key Industries
Freshwater Fishing & Hunting TourismRegional Retail & Agribusiness

Practical Tourism Metadata

Suggested stay: 1–3 days

Fish for trophy walleye and yellow perch on the massive Devils Lake waters, camp and hike at Grahams Island State Park, view historic regional pioneer exhibits at the Lake Region Heritage Center, and enjoy bird watching at nearby waterfowl production areas.