Lake Francis Case is one of the most popular walleye fisheries in the region, and as a walleye factory angler harvest plays a critical role in the recruitment, growth, and mortality of the walleye population within the reservoir. Of these three management elements, harvest is directly tied to mortality in terms of walleye populations. South […]
The Lake Francis Case walleye population has been a subject of discussion in recent years, as anglers have reported a bit tougher fishing on the reservoir. The toughest bite was in 2024, and the 2025 season showed signs of improvement. Heading into 2026, these signs continue to point towards an upswing in the walleye fishing […]
One of the most unique angling opportunities in South Dakota are the Gavins Point Dam Paddlefish seasons. There are two separate seasons available for anglers, Snagging and Archery, in the tailwaters below the Gavins Point Dam. South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) fisheries biologists gave an update on these seasons at a virtual public […]
Another year of lower than average runoff is setting up for another excellent year for the Lewis and Clark Lake walleye fishery. That’s according to South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) biologists, who shared an update at a virtual public meeting February 17, 2026. Lewis and Clark Lake is the lowest of the Missouri […]
Gizzard shad are a critical component of the Missouri River reservoirs, and are an important forage base in Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, Lake Francis Case, and Lewis and Clark Lake. Gizzard shad are incredibly productive, and grow walleyes quickly. It’s important to understand the importance of this forage base to these fisheries. Gizzard shad are […]
Walleyes get a lot of love. They are a favorite fish of anglers across the Midwest. There are multiple regional and national fishing tournaments dedicated to fishing for them. They’re even the state fish of South Dakota! Indeed, walleyes get plenty of love across South Dakota and the entire Midwest. But what about the sauger? […]
Lake Sharpe is known as a walleye factory, and production was good in 2025. Lake Sharpe is an action fishery that consistently produces excellent numbers of walleye, and anglers should expect more of the same in 2026. In addition to walleye, special attention has been paid to the Lake Sharpe smallmouth bass population and fisheries […]
Fishing was fantastic on Lake Oahe in 2025, and all signs are pointing to an even stronger 2026! Walleye abundance continues to increase, walleye are growing at a quick rate, and the other fishing opportunities such as salmon and smallmouth bass are providing an excellent bite as well. Learn more about all of that, and […]
The best resource for Nebraska anglers, the 2026 Nebraska Fishing Forecast, is now available for anglers to begin planning their trips. This publication is shared annually by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and includes both sampling charts and a write up by Daryl Bauer, fisheries outreach and program manager. Whether fishing for walleye, largemouth […]
Increasing abundance, quality sized fish, and an overall hot bite brought more anglers to Lake Oahe in 2025, returning back to angling pressure seen during the “Covid Boom” of 2020. That’s according to South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) fisheries biologists who shared an update at a public meeting January 2026 at the AmericInn […]
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