There’s a new fishery for Pierre’s residents and visitors to enjoy, with Capitol Lake officially opening for public fishing effective today, October 30, 2025. South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) and Governor Larry Rhoden kicked off this new opportunity with an open house fishing event, and anglers can now enjoy this new fishery in the Pierre area.
There will be a diversity of fish for anglers to target with a combination of fish that have been present in the lake, fish that have come down from Mickelson Pond on 4th Street, and stocking efforts by GFP.
“Anglers can expect to catch rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish, carp, and bullhead,” said Jason Jungwirth, GFP Aquatic Habitat and Access Biologist. “In the past two weeks we have stocked approximately 3,000 rainbow trout that are ready to be caught.”
In addition to rainbow trout, largemouth bass and bluegill were also stocked to provide additional angling opportunities.
Everyone will be able to fish the waterbody, with no age nor residency restrictions. Anglers will be required to fish from shore, and no ice fishing nor watercraft will be allowed. GFP has partnered with the Bureau of Administration, who oversees Capitol grounds, to place signs on the areas where fishing is permitted.
Capitol Lake will be open to the public with no age restriction on those who are allowed to fish. Anglers can fish from sunrise to sunset, and all fishing must take place from the shore.
Fishing will be available from sunrise to sunset, and anglers will be able to enjoy this fishery on their lunch breaks, after school, or after work.
“We are excited to have this new fishing opportunity for the Pierre area,” concluded Jungwirth.
The fishery will continue to be stocked by GFP, and individuals are encouraged to use the new fishery to introduce new anglers to the sport.
Capitol Lake Fast Facts:
- Fishing Open for Youth and Adults
- Stocked with Rainbow Trout, Largemouth Bass, and Bluegill
- Fishing Available Sunrise to Sunset
- Shore Fishing Only, No Boats Nor Ice Fishing
- Signs Indicate Open and Closed Areas Around the Lake
(Image courtesy South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Facebook Page)
Capitol Lake Frequently Asked Questions
Is Capitol Lake open to public fishing?
Yes, Capitol Lake officially opened to public fishing on October 30, 2025.
Is there an age restriction on Capitol Lake?
No, everyone is able to enjoy fishing on Capitol Lake regardless of their age.
What fish can you catch in Capitol Lake?
Capitol Lake has been stocked with rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and bluegill. Additionally, anglers can find channel catfish, bullhead, and carp in the fishery.
Is ice fishing allowed on Capitol Lake?
No, ice conditions can be dangerous on the lake and it is closed to ice fishing. Only shore fishing is permitted.
Are kayaks or other watercraft allowed on Capitol Lake?
No, anglers must fish Capitol Lake from shore. Signs have been placed to denote open and closed areas respectively.
Do you need a license to fish Capitol Lake?
Yes, a valid South Dakota fishing license is required for adults looking to fish Capitol Lake. Youth under 18 do not need a license to fish in South Dakota.
