Consideration of spatial patterns and processes is fundamental to developing research studies, implementing management actions, and planning restoration efforts. The Red River of the North basin spans a broad geographic area, where jurisdictional oversight is divided among several entities (Manitoba, CAN; North Dakota, USA; Minnesota, USA; South Dakota, USA), creating a mosaic of regulatory and functional process zones. In this disjointed landscape, understanding the spatial ecology of freshwater fish is essential to address diverse life history requirements and the movement constraints imposed by anthropogenic structures. Long-term acoustic telemetry revealed that large bodied ichthyofauna employ a diverse range of movement strategies throughout the basin. Lake Whitefish showed the highest likelihood of migratory behavior, averaging the longest linear distance between migratory ranges (196.5 km, SD = 23.9), and a strong fidelity to spawning and overwinter locations. Lake Sturgeon, Bigmouth Buffalo, Freshwater Drum, and Walleye displayed the capacity to make annual displacements exceeding 350 km. Lake Sturgeon were the most rigid in their annual movement strategy, forming distinct groups with consistent movement patterns. Bigmouth Buffalo crossed over anthropogenic structures and across the international border more frequently than all species. Burbot and Channel Catfish movements were more restricted, typically remaining in the region in which they were tagged. Examination of demographic rates of Freshwater Drum found no differences in mortality, growth coefficient, or asymptotic length among sampling reaches in the United States, potentially owing to this species’ capacity for broad-scale movement. Our growth estimates (K, Brody growth coefficient) align with studies conducted as far south as Alabama, while mortality rates (4–10%) and longevity (up to 62 years) reflect established latitudinal trends. Recruitment variability (recruitment variability index = 0.53) was associated with thermal and hydrologic factors, including a positive relationship with growing season degree days and negative associations with cold-season discharge and rise rate. These insights into both movement and population dynamics provide further understanding of species ecology, which can be used to improve management practices and direct future conservation actions.????