Fall is a special time in South Dakota. The cackle of roosters echoes in the crisp, cool air and the golden fields begin to fill with orange. As tens of thousands of hunters begin their pursuit of the state bird, many overlook the numerous other opportunities that can be found across the state. Most notably would be the excellent fall walleye bite that can produce both full stringers and trophy caliber fish. In fact, many of the best pheasant hunting fields can be found within a few miles of prime walleye fishing locations.
While the thoughts of deer, waterfowl and of course pheasants distract many from the waters, avid walleye anglers from across the state quietly enjoy some of the best fishing of the year. Fish will move shallow and back to within reach of shore anglers as they aggressively feed in preparation for the winter months ahead. While anglers spending all day on the water are often rewarded with full livewells and memorable fish, you don’t need to dedicate all day to take advantage of this bite.
Thanks to the strong shorebite, hunters don’t need to pull a boat to the field to end the day with both a pocket of roosters and a stringer of walleyes. In fact, a rod for casting and a box of crankbaits is all that is needed to take advantage of the fall bite. In the evenings, walleye will move shallow onto the rocky shorelines and are often willing to strike on a fast moving crankbait.
The set up is simple, a medium fast spinning rod and reel spooled with eight to ten pound braid will handle both “eater” size walleyes and trophy caliber fish. An assortment of crankbaits eliminates the need to carry around live bait and also draws the attention of aggressive twilight walleyes. A #7 Shallow Shad Rap or similar bait is a proven go-to for walleyes of all sizes and waterbodies, but don’t be afraid to upsize to a #9 Shallow Shad Rap or #12 Husky Jerk. In the fall, the forage has reached larger sizes and fish, in particular trophy fish, are looking for large meals.
Productive areas can be found while moving from field to field throughout the day pheasant hunting. Look for rocky shorelines that are adjacent to deep water. The addition of weedlines or timber can make these areas even better. Fish will stage in the deeper water during the day, then begin patrolling the shorelines as the sun slips below the horizon. A fast moving crankbait will draw the attention of these fish and in many times, an aggressive strike!
Individuals looking to make the most of their South Dakota adventure need to look no further than their favorite pheasant spots to find some of the best fishing in the area. The Missouri River and Glacial Lakes regions both offer top notch pheasant hunting and walleye fishing. For many popular destinations, hunters will have everything for their stay in one central location. Whether you’re a seasoned South Dakota hunter or looking to make your first trip, check out some of these areas to begin your search.
The Missouri River region is truly a special destination in South Dakota. The rolling river bluffs are home to excellent numbers of pheasants and abundant populations of walleyes can be found in all of the reservoirs along the river.
Centrally located along Interstate-90, the Chamberlain-Oacoma area is famous for its outdoor destinations. Sitting on Lake Francis Case, the rocky shorelines located directly in town can provide outstanding walleye and smallmouth bass fishing for individuals looking to wet a line after a day in the field. A short drive up to Big Bend Dam at Fort Thompson can also produce a fantastic bite as the sun begins to set.
The capital of the state, Pierre can also be described as the capital of outdoor opportunities as well. Expansive Lake Oahe offers a unique opportunity for individuals looking to target salmon from the shoreline in the fall, while the Oahe Dam tailrace on Lake Sharpe can produce both outstanding numbers and size of walleyes in the evening hours. There is no need to stay far from your favorite spots either, with both Spring Creek Recreation Area and Oahe Downstream Recreation Area offering modern lodging opportunities that keep you right in the heart of the action throughout your entire stay.
Mobridge Area
Away from the hustle and bustle, Mobridge is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Sitting on the upper-end of Lake Oahe, the walleye fishing is strong for much of the year but fall is when the bite can truly fire up. Large walleyes will be moving their way back to tributaries such as the Grand and Moreau rivers as well as to the upper reaches of the reservoir. This means a steady supply of fish can always be found in the area, not to mention the fields full of pheasants too!
Pickstown Area
Flying under the radar from some of the other locations along the river, the Platte/Pickstown area is another favorite spot for individuals both looking to chase roosters and feel a tug on the line. The tailrace below the Fort Randall dam can offer downright tremendous fishing during the fall months for anglers looking to fill a limit or catch a trophy caliber fish. Several state parks including Platte Creek, Snake Creek and North Point Recreation Areas can provide all the comforts of home, in the heart of the field!
While the Missouri River can draw attention from across the country, many small sloughs and lakes across northeast South Dakota quietly offer spectacular fishing only minutes away from productive fields.
Webster Area
While large waterbodies like Bitter Lake and Waubay Lake can steal the spotlight, there is no shortage of water to fish in the Webster area. After enjoying a unique hunt in a unique area, expect plenty of walleye to wrap up a successful day in the field.
Watertown Area
It’s in the name, there is plenty of water to target in the Watertown area. Fortunately, there are plenty of pheasants too! Watertown makes the perfect central location for hunters looking to explore the Clark, Estelline, Clear Lake and Florence areas. From large waterbodies like Lake Poinsett, Indian Springs or Dry Lake #2 to dozens of smaller lakes and sloughs, there is more to explore in the Watertown area than could be done in a single trip!
Brookings Area
The Brookings area has more to offer than just a Jackrabbit Game Day! Similar to Watertown, Brookings is the perfect basecamp for your outdoor adventure. Along both Highways 14 and 81, you’re going to find numerous fields full of pheasants and lakes full of walleye to target.
If you’re looking to stay away from the crowds, check out local parks like Lake Thompson, Lake Poinsett and Oakwood Lakes Recreation Areas. Not only will you find quiet areas to relax when not in the field, you’ll be just minutes away from your next spot to target.
Indeed, the list of opportunities goes on. Famous pheasant hunting locations such as Aberdeen, Mitchell, Redfield and Huron all offer plenty of opportunities for hunters looking to make the most of their South Dakota adventure. Do your homework, put in your time scouting and come prepared, you’ll find the perfect location for every activity you are looking to do!
While the state bird may draw the most attention, don’t overlook the state fish as well! South Dakota is a premier outdoor destination and whether your pursuit flushes from the brush or patrols the shoreline of a local slough, you’ll be sure to make memories out in the field every fall.
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