Open water season is upon us! We kick off the 2024 season with an extremely positive fishing report for the Missouri River reservoirs of Lake Sharpe and Lake Francis Case!
The bite on both Lake Sharpe and Lake Francis Case has been very dependent upon current, as it normally is this time of year. When the current from the dam is flowing, the bite can be very good throughout the day. When the current is not, the bite will be very limited and mainly right away in the mornings or in the evening hours.
On Lake Sharpe, the Bad River is a major factor in where anglers have been targeting. The runoff from the Bad River is extremely muddy and has made the water below it very dirty. Dirty water is bad news on the Missouri River reservoirs, and thus the bulk of the fishing has focused on the popular spots above the Bad River.
The stilling basin is receiving the bulk of the attention, as it often does this time of year, and the bite can be hit or miss. The ice sheet goes back to right in front of the campground, but the ice is in very poor condition and will continue to open up quickly. Fish are in pods and can turn off and on, meaning you may get a few bites quickly then going through an extended slow period.
Marion Gardens, another popular spot in the spring, is receiving heavy boat traffic as well. Once again, when the water is flowing the bite can be good. When the water is not, expect the bite to be difficult as well. The same statement holds true for the sandbars among the bridges as well.
On Lake Francis Case, anglers can launch at Fort Thompson near Big Bend Dam but should be aware the dock is not currently present. Once again, the presence or absence of current is a major factor into the bite as a whole. When the water is flowing the bite can be very good. When the water is not, it is important to stay moving and picking up active fish in as many areas as possible.
Besides where the Bad River has muddied the water, the water on the upper end of both Lake Sharpe and Lake Francis Case is extremely clear. The best presentations are a plain jig and minnow or a jig and white plastic. It is also important to utilize the lightest jig you can get away with based on current and wind.
Spring can change quickly as late-season snowstorms, rain, and other weather patterns can have a dramatic impact on both access and the bite itself, but all signs indicate a very good start to 2024. We also have several other updates for you to make 2024 your best season yet! Whether you’re looking to win a free fishing trip to Pierre, register for upcoming tournaments, or just follow along the tournament season we’ve got something for you!
Win a Free Fishing Trip to Pierre
Lip Ripper Fishing, in partnership with the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce, is proud to offer a free one-day fishing trip, two-night stay at Ramkota Hotel, and $200 Pierre Pride Dollars. Fishing will take place on Lake Sharpe or Lake Oahe depending on the time of year out of Pierre.
Individuals can enter to win through the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce by March 15, 2024. Individuals must be 18 years or older and may submit one entry per household.
Lip Ripper Fishing 2024 Schedule
The 2024 Lip Ripper Fishing Tournament Schedule is official and the boys are ready for the 2024 season! The 2024 schedule includes The Fishing Crew Ice Breaker, Cedar Shore Resort Walleye Tournament, Sharpe Showdown, Big Mac Shut Up and Fish, and South Dakota Governor’s Cup. The boys will also compete in the 10-week Tuesday Night Walleye Fishing League in Pierre.
Check Out the Sharpe Showdown
The 2nd Annual Sharpe Showdown is set for April 27-28, 2024. This tournament is hosted by the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with The Fishing Crew and launches onto Lake Sharpe out of Downs Marina in Pierre. Weigh-ins take place at the Steamboat Park Amphitheater after each day.
National Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic in Sioux Falls March 1-3
South Dakota is the greatest state to pheasant hunt and upland bird hunting enthusiasts will get to enjoy this year’s National Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic in Sioux Falls March 1-3. Stop by the Visit Pierre booth to enter for their chance to win a free fishing trip with Lip Ripper Fishing, two-night stay at Ramkota Hotel, and $200 in Pierre Pride Dollars.
