The 4th of July marks the midpoint of summer, and hopefully everyone had a fun and safe holiday weekend! Beyond the fireworks, the 4th of July means summer fishing patterns are taking full force and on Lake Oahe the South Dakota Governor’s Cup is coming up! Today’s fishing report covers all of it, and important reminders for the summer season as well!
Lake Oahe Fishing Report
First and foremost is a fishing report for the lower end of Lake Oahe near Pierre. Overall, the bite continues to be very good, and the early summer patterns are slowly transitioning into the traditional summer patterns.
In terms of location, fish that had been holding in creeks are now working their way out to the main lake points adjacent to these creeks. The same areas-Agency Creek, Deep Creek, Snake Creek, Okobojo Creek are all the same general locations to start, just begin near the mouths of the creeks and the main lake points associated with them.
As these summer patterns continue taking hold, expect traditional main lake areas to also be filling with fish. Good examples of these include Fantasy Island, Mission Flats, Sully Flats, and Peoria Flats. Fish, particularly larger fish, will also be sitting on the deeper points out in 30-50 feet. Trolling and vertically fishing are good options for covering these areas, depending on how fish are set up on them.
As far as depth, fish are gradually moving a bit deeper as well. Areas where fish had been in 8-15 feet are now holding fish in 14-20 feet. The shallower fish are often a bit more aggressive, but where the bait is staging has the greatest impact on where the bite is. Focus your graphing efforts looking for the bait clouds, and target your presentation accordingly.
In terms of baits, the same presentations continue to be effective. Bottom bouncing with #3 and #4 Colorado blades and ¾ crawlers are the top option. Mixing in trolling crankbaits, particularly when fish are suspended off these points, is also beginning to prove effective. When fish are neutral following negative weather events, slowing down with a plain hook or slow death hook and crawler can work well too.
The bite is going to continue to change for about the next two weeks leading up to the Governor’s Cup, historically it always does, and this time of transition can make fish here today and gone tomorrow. Look for patterns that you can emulate up and down the reservoir, and once you find these you can often find fish consistently.
South Dakota Summer Outdoor Report
There’s a lot going on in the South Dakota outdoors right now! As summer continues, we have a few updates to keep you in the loop on everything going on across the state.
Clean, Drain, Dry This Summer
Summer is a critical time for slowing the spread of aquatic invasive species across the state. Zebra mussels, curly leaf pondweed, and invasive carp are all at high risk of being transported as summer continues. You can do your part to slow the spread of these invasive species by always remembering to Clean, Drain, Dry every time you are on the water.
Summer Boating Safety Reminders
The 4th of July may be in the rearview, but that doesn’t mean we can let our guard down for the summer boating season. Any time you are on the water remember to boat safely and responsibly. Always have a sober boat driver, life jackets, and be aware of your surroundings!
Hunt for Habitat Deadline July 14
The South Dakota Hunt for Habitat raffle is a way to raise money to support habitat improvements on both public and private lands across the state. This raffle offers any deer and any elk licenses, Custer State Park Trophy Buffalo, and Custer State Park Any Deer licenses. The deadline to purchase tickets is 8 a.m. CT on Monday, July 14.
Can-Am Raffle Supports Second Century Habitat Fund
This year Can-Am, South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, and Second Century Habitat fund are partnering to raffle off a Can-Am Defender MAX Limited with all proceeds supporting habitat programs. Learn more about this raffle and purchase your tickets to support conservation!
Road Ahead: South Dakota Governor’s Cup
It’s officially time to start thinking about the South Dakota Governor’s Cup, which will take place July 19-20. There’s going to be some massive weights coming across the scales, and excitement for this event is very high!
