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Fishing in South Dakota

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Want trophy-size catches? These South Dakota spots deliver

About South Dakota fishing

South Dakota’s lakes and rivers hold walleye, northern pike, bass, and perch. The Missouri River system is especially productive, offering anglers a mix of trophy and table-sized fish.

South Dakota fishing license

South Dakota fishing licenses are required for anglers 16+. Resident and non-resident annual and short-term licenses are available online or from licensed agents statewide.

Get license

Top fish species caught in South Dakota

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Biggest catches in South Dakota

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State records of caught fish in South Dakota

SpeciesWeightChannel catfish55 lbsNorthern pike36.2 lbsRainbow trout19.2 lbsWalleye15.2 lbsLargemouth bass9.2 lbsSmallmouth bass6.6 lbs

Latest South Dakota fishing reports

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Rainbow trout

Sheridan Lake

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Rainbow trout

Pactola Lake

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Rainbow trout

Rapid Creek

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Rainbow trout

Castle Creek

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Cutthroat trout

Center Lake

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Rainbow trout

Center Lake

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Rainbow trout

Center Lake

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Brown trout

Spearfish Creek

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Brown trout

Spearfish Creek

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Brown trout

Spearfish Creek

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Fishing regulations in South Dakota

Disclaimer: Always check local fishing regulations, water access rights and land ownership before fishing, regardless of any catches logged in that area by the Fishbrain community. Fishbrain has mapped millions of acres of government-owned land across the USA to help you identify potential fishing access, but you are responsible for ensuring compliance with all legal requirements.

Fishing regulations in South Dakota can change throughout the year. Make sure to check this page before fishing for the most up to date rules and regulations for the current season. Local regulations govern when you can fish, the max size of the fish you can keep, how many fish you can keep, and more.

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FAQ about South Dakota fishing

Fishing regulations in South Dakota, United States vary by location and species, covering size limits, bag limits, and open seasons. To stay up to date and avoid guesswork, use the for the latest rules on every fish and body of water.
Anglers in South Dakota, United States most often target Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, and Northern pike. For more detailed insights, the shows exactly which species are biting in each lake, river, and coastline.
Popular waters in South Dakota, United States include Big Sioux River, Missouri River (SD), and Lake Oahe. With the , you can zoom in on any area to discover the best spots and see what other anglers are catching there.