
With more than 1,100 square miles of water reservoirs and a year-round fishing season, South Dakota is a fishmeran's dream. From glistening mountain streams to glacial lakes to Prairie Rivers, the state is rife with some of the finest fishing opportunities in North America. Although there are dozens of fish species for the catching, South Dakotan fishers seem to prefer several tried-and-true favorites, including the walleye, bluegill, bass, catfish, trout, perch, pike, salmon, and crappie.
Each region of South Dakota offers its own unique fishing opportunities and conditions, all infused with natural beauty. Learn more about fishing opportunities in our special sections on Western South Dakota, the Central Region, the Northeast Glacial Lakes & Prairies, and the Southeast Prairies.
South Dakota anglers enjoy many different variations of fishing. To learn about the common types used click here.