South Dakota’s Top 17 Fishing Spots You’ve Probably Overlooked 🌾
South Dakota, renowned for its vast prairies, dramatic badlands, and iconic monuments, also harbors some of the most exceptional fishing opportunities in the American Midwest. From the mighty Missouri River reservoirs to pristine glacial lakes and crystal-clear mountain streams, the Mount Rushmore State offers diverse angling experiences that attract anglers from across the nation.
We’re counting down to South Dakota’s premier fishing destinations, revealing their unique features, and the impressive species that await your line!
Jump to a Lake
- #17 Iron Creek Lake
- #16 Enemy Swim Lake
- #15 Horseshoe Lake
- #14 Waubay Lake
- #13 Roy Lake
- #12 Big Stone Lake
- #11 Lake Thompson
Source: Pixabay
17. Iron Creek Lake
Primary Target Species: Rainbow Trout, Largemouth Bass, Yellow Perch, Bluegill, Crappie, Bullhead Catfish.
Highlights: Iron Creek Lake is a small but productive mountain lake nestled deep in the northern Black Hills, just 20 minutes from Spearfish. Despite its modest 15-acre size, this easily accessible lake supports an impressive diversity of species.
The lake features a handicap-accessible fishing pier and a complete walking path around the entire shoreline. It is best fished early morning to avoid afternoon crowds.
- 🎣 Top 10 Bass Fishing Lures That Actually Work: Proven lures anglers swear by in lakes across the U.S.
Source: Pixabay
16. Enemy Swim Lake
Primary Target Species: Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, Northern Pike, Bluegill, Crappie.
Highlights: Enemy Swim Lake in Day County is a substantial glacial lake covering approximately 2,000 acres with a healthy mix of aquatic vegetation and varied structure. This productive fishery is actively managed by South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks to ensure sustainable populations for future generations.
The lake’s diverse habitat supports excellent populations of bass, walleye, and panfish, making it a popular destination for multi-species fishing adventures.
- 📋 U.S. Fishing License & Regulation Guide: Everything you need to know before casting your line.
Source: Pixabay
15. Horseshoe Lake
Primary Target Species: Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, Northern Pike, Yellow Perch, Crappie.
Highlights: Horseshoe Lake, located 9 miles south of Webster in Day County, is a renowned glacial lake covering roughly 1,200 acres with a moderate average depth of 12 feet and maximum depth of 30 feet. This lake has developed a strong reputation for smallmouth bass fishing, attracting anglers seeking quality bronzebacks in a scenic glacial lake setting.
The lake’s clear waters and rocky structure provide ideal habitat for smallmouth bass to thrive, with its maximum depth providing diverse fishing opportunities.
- 🧭 Best Times of Year to Fish in Every State: Seasonal tips to help you plan the perfect fishing trip.
Source: Pixabay
14. Waubay Lake
Primary Target Species: Walleye, Northern Pike, White Bass, Yellow Perch, Bluegill.
Highlights: Waubay Lake is one of northeastern South Dakota’s most productive fisheries, covering 8,263 acres of prime glacial lake habitat. Located near the Blue Dog State Fish Hatchery, this lake has benefited from consistent management and stocking programs.
The lake’s fertile waters support excellent populations of walleye, northern pike, and white bass, making it a favorite among both local and visiting anglers seeking consistent action.
- 🏆 America’s 25 Most Legendary Fishing Spots: Bucket-list destinations for serious anglers.
Source: Pixabay
13. Roy Lake
Primary Target Species: Bluegill, Crappie, Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Walleye.
Highlights: Roy Lake in Marshall County spans 1,185 acres and quietly features one of the most remarkable fisheries in northeastern South Dakota. While walleye reign supreme throughout the state, Roy Lake offers fantastic bluegill and crappie fishing with great numbers of quality panfish.
The lake also produces trophy-caliber smallmouth bass, making it an excellent destination for diverse angling opportunities within Roy Lake State Park, offering a quiet location with excellent amenities.
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Source: Pixabay
12. Big Stone Lake
Primary Target Species: Walleye, Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass, Yellow Perch, White Bass.
Highlights: Big Stone Lake is a magnificent 12,610-acre natural lake straddling the South Dakota-Minnesota border, stretching 26 miles from end to end. This long, narrow freshwater lake serves as a walleye hotspot with excellent populations due to its abundant forage base and fertile waters.
The lake’s shallow, productive nature ensures that walleye grow big and fast, making it a favorite among serious walleye anglers.
- 🎣 Top 10 Bass Fishing Lures That Actually Work: Proven lures anglers swear by in lakes across the U.S.
Source: Pixabay
11. Lake Thompson
Primary Target Species: Walleye, Northern Pike, Yellow Perch, Crappie, White Bass, Sunfish.
Highlights: Lake Thompson is one of South Dakota’s largest natural lakes at 16,236 acres, historically known as Dry Woods Lake by American Indians. With 45 miles of shoreline and a maximum depth of 26 feet, this expansive lake supports diverse species.
The Lake Thompson Recreation Area provides excellent access with cottages, camping, and a variety of recreational amenities, offering full services.