South Dakota has some special fisheries, and whether it is the trophy walleye fishery that is Lake Oahe or the Glacial Lakes region that supports tremendous yellow perch populations the diversity of fisheries is of much interest for many anglers. Find out what makes South Dakota’s fisheries so special and learn more about why these fisheries function as they do!
The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) will be hosting two upcoming public meetings regarding the Lake Oahe and Lake Sharpe fisheries.
Similar to prospectors looking for gold, anglers targeting perch often follow many of the same patterns. Overall, the top perch fisheries can be classified as “boom or bust” and the best bite can vary widely from lake to lake, year to year, and even within the season. The variable nature of this fishing may make anglers think, “will the gold run out?” To answer this question, one must understand the dynamics of yellow perch in South Dakota.
When discussing the Missouri River reservoirs in South Dakota, the term “walleye factory” is often brought up when speaking of Lake Francis Case and Lake Sharpe. Indeed, these fisheries can crank out incredible numbers of 15-20 inch fish and provide ample opportunities for anglers to fill a limit throughout the season. Sitting above these fisheries is another, one that is not a “walleye factory”, but rather a “trophy walleye factory.”
Gold has a rich history in South Dakota, and while many may think of the prospectors in the Black Hills, a different kind of gold continues to attract individuals to the state year after year. The gold we’re referencing, of course, is yellow perch. When it comes to targeting jumbo perch, true jumbos that are 12-15 inches plus, the Glacial Lakes region of South Dakota is one of the top destinations for prospectors.
Find the Latest Fishing Reports
Looking for the latest fishing reports? We’ve got you covered! Find the latest fishing reports and the best bites the boys are currently on by visiting our Fishing Reports page!
South Dakota Outdoors News, Reports, and Updates
The outdoors is our passion in South Dakota, and whether you enjoy fishing, hunting, camping, or more we’ve got you covered on everything you need to know outside across the state! Find information on South Dakota’s fisheries, hunting seasons, and state parks on our South Dakota Outdoors News, Reports, and Updates page!
Fishing Tournament News
Looking to find information regarding walleye fishing tournaments across South Dakota, Nebraska, and the rest of the country? We’ve got you covered! Check out our Fishing Tournament News page to find the latest results, schedules, and updates across the walleye fishing tournament trails!
