The ND Game and Fish Department says that the stocking was made possible because the hatchery at Garrison Dam had record production, producing 10.4 million fingerlings.

Other notable stockings included 1.7 million fingerlings in Devils Lake and 1.3 million at Lake Sakakawea.

“North Dakota we do get some natural production. The fish can do it on their own, but for the most part they need a big shot in the arm and that’s where we come into play. If we did not stock the walleye most of these lakes will be in some serious trouble,” says Greg Power, ND Game and Fish Department.

Twenty years ago, only about 60 waters were stocked with walleye fingerlings each year. That number grew to 100 in the early 2000s.

Power says that the fish should be ready for anglers during the summer of 2018.