We’ve got more than a fishing report this week, it’s a very busy week for the South Dakota outdoors and we’ve got a complete report of all the outdoor opportunities taking place currently!
Missouri River Fishing Report
The staple of these reports, of course, is the fishing on the Missouri River in Pierre. Fall fishing appears to be finally here, as the warm temperatures and sun had really scattered fish and made the fishing tough throughout the last couple weeks on Lake Sharpe near Pierre. Fortunately, a drastic cold front moved through Friday evening, and while there are some warm days left on the forecast, there are cooler temperatures on the horizon.
These cooler temperatures have really concentrated both the bait and fish, which means when you find them you often find them well. There are a lot of small fish in the system, as well as many that are right at 15 inches, so be sure to make sure you’re measuring each fish before you put it in the livewell.
Bottom bouncing in 6-10 feet continues to be the best option, still utilizing crawlers and #3 or #4 Colorado blades pulled relatively quickly. Color doesn’t play much factor, as fish are keying on the forage in the system and will go through periods they bite and periods they don’t. Forage consists primarily of gizzard shad, but there are still mayflys present as a food source as well.
Glacial Lakes Region Fishing Report
This past week presented the opportunity to enjoy the fishing in the Glacial Lakes region of eastern South Dakota. The fishing on Lake Poinsett was decent, with trolling crankbaits on the south side of the lake infront of Lake Poinsett Recreation Area the most effective. The walleye are overall in good shape, and fishing should continue to get better as temperatures cool.
We were also able to explore a new waterbody, Roy Lake, and it has quickly become a new favorite! We checked out Roy Lake State Park, a were able to enjoy some terrific bluegill and crappie fishing, as well as quality walleye and smallmouth bass.
Bluegill fishing was best in 6-12 feet of water, adjacent to the submerged weed stalks and deep water. The majority of the fish were 7-9 inches, and they favored a 1/16oz jig and small plastic. Nightcrawlers were effective, but re-baiting slowed down the overall ability to catch fish! Smallmouth bass were also intermingled among these bluegills too!
The walleye fishing was best trolling crankbaits adjacent to the weed edges in 12-13 feet, adjacent to 17 feet. This also produced an excellent crappie bite as well as bonus northern pike. From time to time, a bluegill would hit the crankbaits as well!
Roy Lake State Park offers truly top-notch accommodations, and between the excellent lodging and fishing opportunities it is a perfect option for a fall fishing or late season family vacation! This should also be at the top of options for ice anglers as they plan their coming season!
Duck Season Opener
The South Dakota duck season opened Saturday, September 21, for much of the state and hunting conditions sound on all fronts fantastic. In northeast South Dakota, there is a good number of local ducks as well as blue-winged teal thanks to the warm September conditions. Further south near Brookings, wetland conditions are the best in years and these reflooded wetlands are drawing many of the ducks. Hunters should expect to find blue-winged teal, pintails, and mallards in good numbers. Reports are much the same in southeast South Dakota as well.
In south central South Dakota, water levels and shoreline cover are also looking excellent for the year. Good numbers of birds are being reported as well as blue-winged teal. Conditions along the James River Valley are similar, with good numbers of teal as well as mallard and pintails present. Similar conditions are being reported in the Pierre area as well. While these areas have been drier as summer progressed, there is substantially more water and birds than previous years.
Prairie Grouse Season
The South Dakota prairie grouse season also opened Saturday, September 21, and reports from the field are very encouraging! Grouse harvest last year was strong, and all indications pointed towards an even more successful season this year. Early reports from opening weekend say these predictions are on track!
Fall Camping and State Park Opportunities
The fall season is also an excellent time to get out in the South Dakota State Parks. This coming week is the annual Buffalo Roundup at Custer State Park, which will likely draw in excess of 20,000 individuals to witness the event thanks to the fantastic weather forecast. The Buffalo Roundup will take place Friday, September 27.
While this marquee event draws a major crowd, state parks and recreation areas across the state offer a variety of opportunities. In addition to quiet campgrounds, the fall colors are coming in strong across the state making for perfect hiking, biking, and/or just relaxing conditions in the parks. State parks and recreation areas also offer many fishing and hunting opportunities for visitors to enjoy.
Complete information regarding the fishing, hunting, and camping opportunities can be found in our 2024 South Dakota Fall Fishing and Hunting Forecast.
