South Dakota Fly Fishing Reports
River Reports - Click a river below
Castle Creek – Above Deerfield
Castle Creek – Below Deerfield
French Creek – Fairburn
Rapid Creek – Above Pactola
Rapid Creek – Below Pactola
Rapid Creek – Rapid City
Spearfish Creek – Lead
Spearfish Creek – Spearfish
Split Rock Creek – Corson
Spring Creek – Keystone
Whitewood Creek – Above Whitewood
Whitewood Creek – Vale
Whitewood Creek – Whitewood
Castle Creek – Below Deerfield
French Creek – Fairburn
Rapid Creek – Above Pactola
Rapid Creek – Below Pactola
Rapid Creek – Rapid City
Spearfish Creek – Lead
Spearfish Creek – Spearfish
Split Rock Creek – Corson
Spring Creek – Keystone
Whitewood Creek – Above Whitewood
Whitewood Creek – Vale
Whitewood Creek – Whitewood
State overview
- South Dakota boasts expansive fly fishing opportunities, particularly in the serene Black Hills where Rapid Creek and Spearfish Creek offer abundant trout.
- Unique to the state, the Missouri River system, including Lake Oahe, provides a diverse habitat supporting a variety of fish species, making it a prime spot for fly fishing enthusiasts.
- The state’s commitment to fishery management and accessible public lands ensures a top-notch experience for anglers of all levels, enhancing the appeal of South Dakota as a fly fishing destination.
Fishing Regulations
- License Requirements: Both residents and nonresidents need a license to fish in South Dakota. Specific licenses allow residents to fish, hunt small game, and take frogs and turtles. Nonresidents have options like a 10-day small game and fishing license, or a 3-day fishing license.
- Youth and Senior Discounts: Youth under the age of 18 and seniors aged 65 or older can benefit from reduced fees or exemptions. Resident seniors can obtain a fishing license at a reduced cost, and youth may not need a license depending on their age and type of fishing.
- Purchase and Validity: Licenses can be purchased online, offering an accessible way to secure fishing rights before arriving at fishing locations. Licenses need to be renewed annually, but there are also options for shorter-term licenses for visitors or specific fishing expeditions.
For detailed information on license types, fees, and how to purchase them, please visit the official South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks website here.
Conservation Efforts
- Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP): South Dakota collaborates with the USDA to offer the CREP in the Big Sioux River Watershed, helping landowners improve water quality and enhance wildlife habitats, while providing public fishing and hunting access. More information at USDA website.
- Fly Fishers International (FFI): FFI supports fly fishing conservation through grants, scholarships, and sustainable fishing advocacy, educating on the importance of aquatic environment protection. Details at FFI’s website.