Fishing At Lake Oahe

AKA: Oahe Reservoir

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for smallmouth bass, channel catfish, walleye, lake trout, Chinook salmon and northern pike at Lake Oahe in South Dakota.

A fertile smallmouth fishery, Lake Oahe is a 231-mile long stretch of the Missouri River, created by Oahe Dam. This 370,000-acre impoundment which runs from Pollock to Pierre, with over 2,200 miles of shoreline.

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

The purpose of this page is to deliver an overview of this lake, the fishing options, and area amenities. Our goal is to provide info to first time visitors, as well as beginner and novice anglers. We gathered details from personal experience, numerous trusted websites that each offer select bits of information, and videos of fishing activity on the lake. These websites include the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, marinas at the lake, campgrounds, boat rental agencies and others. By consolidating this information to one page it allows visitors to see the entire picture, all in one place.

Lake Video

Lake Oahe is a massive reservoir located on the Missouri River, stretching from South Dakota to North Dakota. In South Dakota, it spans across a significant portion of the central and western sections of the state. Known for its vast size and diverse fish population, Lake Oahe is a haven for anglers from all around.

One of the primary attractions for fishing enthusiasts at Lake Oahe is the abundant walleye population. Anglers flock to the lake for the chance to catch trophy-sized walleye, making it one of the premier walleye fishing destinations in the United States. The lake's expansive waters and various underwater structures provide an ideal habitat for these prized fish.

For those seeking the thrill of catching a powerful fish, Lake Oahe offers excellent opportunities for reeling in smallmouth bass. These feisty fighters are found near rocky structures and offer anglers exciting battles when hooked.

Lake Oahe is also renowned for its lake trout fishery. This cold-water species thrives in the deeper sections of the lake, providing anglers with the opportunity to catch some impressive specimens. Lake trout fishing is particularly popular during the cooler months when the water temperature supports their activity near the surface.

Chinook salmon is another sought-after species in Lake Oahe. Anglers can enjoy both trolling and casting methods to target these powerful fish. The lake's ample food supply sustains a healthy population of these salmon, making for an enjoyable fishing experience.

Northern pike, known for their aggressive strikes, are another popular species that can be found in Lake Oahe. Anglers can often encounter these predators in shallow, weedy areas, especially during the warmer months.

Channel catfish add to the diversity of fishing opportunities at Lake Oahe. Anglers can target them in various areas of the lake, using a variety of baits and techniques.

While there are plenty of places with access for fishing from the bank, which is often successful, the best way to fish this monstrous lake is from a boat. Well over a dozen boat launch ramps are located all around the lake for easy access from any direction. Ice fishing in winter can be very productive, especially for crappie and walleye. The winds can be excessive at times so caution is advised for safe boating. Plenty of campgrounds, RV parks and lodging options are available, primarily on the east side of the lake.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Oahe

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Oahe Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Stores: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurants: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a common sight on Lake Oahe due to its vast size and navigable waters. Anglers have the freedom to explore different areas of the lake, searching for their favorite fishing spots. Additionally, the lake's scenic beauty makes boating an enjoyable experience for both anglers and recreational boaters.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Bridge City Marina and Resort
Rentals: Pontoon boats
605 845-9129

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Bush's Landing Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off 182nd Street, this is a three lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Chantier Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Chantier Creek Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Cow Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Cow Creek Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Dodge Draw Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Dodge Draw Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Indian Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off 288th Avenue, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Low Water Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off 104th Street, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Minneconjou Recreation Area Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Minneconjou Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Okobojo Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Goose Pass Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Peoria Flats Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off 280th Avenue, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Spring Creek Recreation Area Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off 196th Street, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Marinas

Bridge City Marina and Resort
12940 288th Rd
Mobridge, SD 57601
605 845-9129

Click here for a South Dakota Fishing License.

Several campgrounds around the lake provide convenient opportunities for camping, allowing anglers and visitors to enjoy extended stays and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities that Lake Oahe has to offer.