Anglers fishing the Glacial Lakes region in northeast South Dakota have improved access to a couple popular waterbodies thanks to South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Habitat Stamp projects.
Improved Access at Hazeldon Lake in Day County
Hazeldon Lake in Day County has been producing excellent fishing, and has been incredibly popular with anglers in the Webster area. Now, these anglers have an improved boat ramp to enjoy.
The boat ramp was extended to provide deeper water for easier loading and unloading. Additionally, the roll-in dock has been replaced with a larger, more durable boat dock to better withstand windy conditions.
The Hazeldon Lake access has ample parking area, and the new dock and deeper water has made it even easier for both anglers and waterfowl hunters to enjoy this popular waterbody.
Improved Access at Clear Lake in Hamlin County
A new access to Clear Lake in Hamlin County was opened for use on July 17. This popular fishery is located near Thomas, South Dakota and has seen increased angling usage.
The new access includes a small plank boat ramp, roll-in dock, and ample parking space. There is a paved highway leading to the access, and the boat ramp itself is deep enough to allow for easy loading and unloading.
This project is courtesy of a willing landowner to provide an access agreement, and coordination between GFP conservation officers and private lands habitat biologists.
Image Courtesy South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Facebook Page
Aquatic Habitat Stamp Dollars At Work
Both of these projects are supported by Habitat Stamp dollars. The Habitat Stamp is $10 for residents and $25 for nonresidents. The dollars generated through Habitat Stamp sales are split based on aquatic and terrestrial projects based on the type of license(s) purchased by the license holder.
For individuals who hold just a fishing license, 100% of their Habitat Stamp dollars go towards aquatic projects. For anglers who hold just a hunting license, 100% of their Habitat Stamp dollars go towards terrestrial projects. For individuals who hold both fishing and hunting licenses, their Habitat Stamp dollars split between both.
Since 2020, the Habitat Stamp has improved public access for both hunters and anglers, and these are two excellent examples of these improvements in action!
