Fishing At Lewis And Clark Lake

AKA: Lewis & Clark Lake

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, rock bass, white bass, northern pike, saugeye and sauger at Lewis And Clark Lake in South Dakota.

Straddling the South Dakota-Nebraska border, Lewis And Clark Lake is a 31,000-acre lake between Yankton and Springfield, SD. Fishing enthusiasts, boaters and vacationers will find over 90 miles of shoreline to explore and enjoy.

Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Boat Launch Ramps
Marinas
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Lake Video
Contact Info

Lewis And Clark Lake is a large reservoir situated in the southeastern section of South Dakota, near the border with Nebraska. It was formed by the Gavins Point Dam on the Missouri River and offers a wide range of recreational activities, with fishing being one of the main attractions.

Anglers visiting Lewis And Clark Lake can look forward to a diverse selection of popular fish species. Walleye is the most sought-after species here, and the lake is well-known for producing trophy-sized catches. The adjacent Missouri River also contributes to the abundance of walleye in the lake, making it a prime destination for both experienced and novice anglers.

Sauger and saugeye are also prevalent in Lewis And Clark Lake, providing additional opportunities for anglers seeking a variety of experiences. These close relatives of the walleye offer a similar fishing challenge and are often caught alongside walleye in the lake.

For bass enthusiasts, both smallmouth and largemouth bass can be found in the lake. Smallmouth bass, in particular, are prized for their acrobatic fights and are commonly caught near rocky areas and drop-offs. Largemouth bass can be found in more sheltered spots, such as coves and areas with aquatic vegetation.

Anglers looking for panfish will find plenty of yellow perch and white crappie in the lake. Yellow perch are especially abundant and provide a fun fishing experience, particularly during the winter ice fishing season.

Lewis And Clark Lake is also home to various catfish species, including flathead and channel catfish. These bottom-dwelling fish offer an exciting challenge for catfish enthusiasts and are often targeted using a variety of baits and techniques.

Sunfish and white bass are additional species that add to the lake's diverse fishing opportunities, making it an excellent location for families and youth anglers.

Aside from fishing, Lewis And Clark Lake is a popular spot for boating and water-based activities. The expansive reservoir provides ample space for boaters to explore and enjoy water sports.

Several campgrounds surrounding the lake offer opportunities for camping and picnicking, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the scenic beauty and tranquility of the area.

Lewis And Clark Lake in South Dakota's southeastern region is a top-notch fishing destination with a wide variety of species to target, including walleye, sauger, saugeye, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, yellow perch, white crappie, flathead catfish, channel catfish, sunfish, and white bass. With its scenic surroundings, ample recreational opportunities, and diverse fishing experiences, Lewis And Clark Lake is a must-visit location for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

For boaters, there are several boat launch ramps on both the SD and NE sides of the lake. This fertile fishery is a 25-mile long impoundment on the Missouri River, with excellent fishing. Catfish, walleye, sauger and saugeye are among the favorites. Walleye, sauger, saugeye and catfish spend summers and winters in deeper water, often relating to the river channel, and move shallow in spring preferring rocky areas. The lake also has a healthy population of bass, crappie, sunfish and northern pike. You'll find plenty of shoreline accessible for fishing from the bank. There is a full marina with boat rentals plus boating, fishing and camping supplies. The marina area also has boat rentals and a restaurant.

Primary fish species residing in Lewis And Clark Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lewis And Clark Lake, SD Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

Lewis & Clark Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats
605 665-3111

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Gavin's Point Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off Gavins Point Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp paved parking.

Lewis And Clark Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off Shore Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Midway Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off State Route 52, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.