North Dakota Sports Betting: A Complete Guide
Sports betting in North Dakota occupies a unique space in the American legal landscape. While not explicitly legalized by a statewide statute, residents and visitors can legally place wagers at retail sportsbooks located within the state's tribal casinos. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of sports betting in North Dakota, including its legal status, available sportsbooks, and essential tips for bettors.
The Legal Landscape of Sports Betting in North Dakota
Sports betting in North Dakota became a reality in December 2021. However, the path to legalization was not a traditional one. Instead of a state-wide bill, sports betting is authorized through compacts between the state and its federally recognized Native American tribes. These compacts, amended after the 2018 Supreme Court decision to overturn the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), allow the tribes to offer sports wagering on their lands.
While retail sports betting is legal and operational, online and mobile sports betting is not yet available in North Dakota. Legislative efforts to introduce online sports betting have so far been unsuccessful. A bill that would have placed the issue on the ballot for a public vote was rejected by lawmakers. This means that for the foreseeable future, all legal sports betting in North Dakota must be done in person at a tribal casino.
Available Sportsbooks in North Dakota
As of early 2026, several tribal casinos in North Dakota have opened retail sportsbooks. These venues offer a classic sportsbook experience, with betting windows, kiosks, and comfortable lounges to watch the games. The following is a list of the current and upcoming sportsbooks in the state:
- Dakota Magic Casino & Hotel (Hankinson): Operated by the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate, this was the first sportsbook to open in North Dakota. It features a full-service sportsbook and bar.
- 4 Bears Casino & Lodge (New Town): This casino offers a retail sportsbook with multiple screens to watch live sports.
- Sky Dancer Casino & Resort (Belcourt): Located in the northern part of the state, this resort also features a retail sportsbook.
Two other casinos, the Prairie Knights Casino & Resort in Fort Yates and the Spirit Lake Casino & Resort in St. Michael, have announced plans to open sportsbooks, but have not yet provided a firm timeline for their debut.
Types of Bets Available
North Dakota's retail sportsbooks offer a wide variety of betting options, similar to what you would find in other states with legal sports betting. These include:
- Moneyline: A simple bet on which team will win the game.
- Point Spread: A bet on the margin of victory. The favorite must win by a certain number of points, while the underdog can lose by a certain number of points or win outright.
- Totals (Over/Under): A bet on the total number of points scored in a game by both teams.
- Parlays: A single bet that links together two or more individual wags for a high payout. All of the bets must win for the parlay to pay out.
- Teasers: A type of parlay where you can adjust the point spread in your favor in exchange for a lower payout.
- Futures: A bet on an event that will happen in the future, such as which team will win the Super Bowl.
- Prop Bets: Bets on specific events within a game that do not necessarily affect the outcome, such as which player will score the first touchdown.
Tax Implications for Winnings
Gambling winnings are considered taxable income in the United States. This includes winnings from sports betting. In North Dakota, you are required to report all gambling winnings to the IRS. If you win more than $600, the sportsbook may be required to issue you a Form W-2G. It is always advisable to keep a detailed record of your wins and losses for tax purposes and to consult with a tax professional for guidance.
Mobile vs. Retail Betting
As mentioned, only retail sports betting is currently legal in North Dakota. This means you must physically visit one of the tribal casinos to place a bet. While this may be less convenient than mobile betting, it also offers a unique and social experience. The sportsbooks in North Dakota are designed to be destinations, with comfortable seating, large-screen TVs, and food and beverage service.
For those who prefer the convenience of mobile betting, the future is uncertain. While there is support for online sports betting in the state, it will require a change in the law, which has so far been a significant hurdle.
Tips for Bettors in North Dakota
- Shop the Odds: Even though there are a limited number of sportsbooks, it's still a good idea to compare the odds at different locations if possible. Small differences in the odds can make a big difference in your winnings over time.
- Bet on What You Know: Stick to betting on sports and teams that you are familiar with. This will give you a better chance of making informed decisions.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget for your betting and stick to it. Never bet more than you can afford to lose.
- Take Advantage of Promotions: While online promotions are not available, retail sportsbooks may offer their own promotions and loyalty programs. Be sure to ask about any available offers.
Responsible Gaming Resources
It is important to gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, there are resources available to help. These include:
- North Dakota Council on Problem Gambling: Provides resources and support for problem gamblers and their families.
- Gambler ND: A state-sponsored program that offers confidential help for problem gamblers.
- National Council on Problem Gambling: A national organization that provides a helpline and other resources for problem gamblers. You can reach them at 1-800-522-4700.