Pipestem Reservoir is one of two Corps of Engineers lakes flanking Jamestown in southeastern North Dakota – a flood-control reservoir on Pipestem Creek that doubles as a quiet, convenient fishing and recreation lake. Together with neighboring Jamestown Reservoir, it gives the Jamestown area a pair of accessible waters for walleye, pike and perch, with camping and trails close to I-94.
This guide covers Pipestem Reservoir: the fishing, the recreation, and access. It’s part of our growing North Dakota Lakes Database.
Pipestem Reservoir at a glance
- Surface area: ~1,500 acres (a flood-control reservoir; level fluctuates)
- Location: Stutsman County, southeastern North Dakota (near Jamestown)
- Built: Pipestem Dam on Pipestem Creek, completed 1973 (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers)
- Top fish: walleye, northern pike, yellow perch, white bass
Fishing Pipestem Reservoir
Pipestem is a handy local fishery with walleye, northern pike, yellow perch and white bass. A North Dakota fishing license is required. As a flood-control reservoir its level rises and falls, which can affect the fishing year to year, but it remains a reliable, close-to-town option for Jamestown-area anglers and a popular ice-fishing spot.
Recreation and access
The Corps of Engineers provides a campground, boat ramps, day-use areas and trails around Pipestem, making it an easy weekend or evening destination just outside Jamestown. Paired with Jamestown Reservoir on the James River nearby, it gives the area two lakes within minutes of each other and of Interstate 94.
Getting there and what’s nearby
Pipestem Reservoir is just northwest of Jamestown, right off I-94 about 1.5 hours west of Fargo and 1.5 hours east of Bismarck. Jamestown – home of the World’s Largest Buffalo monument and the National Buffalo Museum – is the nearest city for services.
Know before you go
- Fishing license: a North Dakota license is required.
- Fluctuating level: a flood-control reservoir – the level and fishing vary year to year.
- Best seasons: spring through fall for walleye, pike and perch; winter for ice fishing.
Frequently asked questions
What fish are in Pipestem Reservoir?
Walleye, northern pike, yellow perch and white bass.
Can you camp at Pipestem Reservoir?
Yes – the Corps of Engineers provides a campground, boat ramps and day-use areas near Jamestown.
Where is Pipestem Reservoir?
Just northwest of Jamestown in southeastern North Dakota, right off I-94.
Related: explore more of the largest lakes in North Dakota, or head back to the North Dakota Lakes Database.
