Great Trout Fishing Locations In South Dakota

Guide to fishing for rainbow, cutthroat, brook, brown and lake trout in local lakes and streams.

Rainbow Trout
Brook Trout
Cutthroat Trout
Brown Trout
Lake Trout
Trout Lakes In The State
Available Trout Species
Top Trout Lures & Flies

South Dakota offers some excellent opportunities for trout fishing, with several species of trout available for anglers to target. The primary trout species found in the state's waters are rainbow trout and brown trout.

Fishing For Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are one of the most fished for trout species in the state, and can be found in numerous South Dakota lakes and rivers. Known for its tasty pink flesh, rainbows are a favorite among the vast majority of trout anglers in the state. It also appeals to the fly fisherman as it can be caught on flies as well as other small baits and lures. It feeds on small insects, minnows, crustaceans and worms. It is ideal for both sport and dining pleasure. Rainbow trout are commonly stocked in various lakes and reservoirs throughout South Dakota. These fish are known for their vibrant colors and acrobatic fights, making them a popular choice for anglers of all skill levels. Some of the popular locations for rainbow trout fishing include Pactola Reservoir, Sheridan Lake, and Center Lake. More...

Fishing For Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat trout call the Pacific northwest home, however they are also stocked in many lakes. Cutthroat trout fishing holds a cherished place among anglers. While fly fishing reigns supreme as the preferred method, these prized fish are also susceptible to various artificial lures mimicking minnows or grubs, as well as live bait presentations. Cutthroat trout fishing is renowned for the spectacular battles while landing. More...

Fishing For Brook Trout

Brook trout, with their stunning colors and willingness to bite, can be found in remote mountain streams and creeks across the state. These small but feisty fish can provide an exciting fishing experience for those willing to explore South Dakota's more secluded and scenic locations. The primary food source of brookies is small insects, mollusks, crustaceans and other small fishes. In lakes where brook trout are stocked, shade over shallow cover is a great place to start. More...

Fishing For Brown Trout

Brown trout, another prized trout species, can be found in select South Dakota lakes and rivers. Many of these fisheries are attracting anglers from near and far. These elusive and wary fish offer a challenge to anglers, requiring stealthy presentations and precise casting to entice a bite. Brown trout feed on worms, minnows, insects and crustaceans. Larger browns can be taken on jerkbaits, small crankbaits and spinners. Brown trout are often found in the state's colder streams and rivers. They are known for their wariness and can be challenging to catch, making them a favorite among experienced anglers. Some of the best spots for brown trout fishing in South Dakota include Rapid Creek, Spearfish Creek, and Spring Creek. More...

Fishing For Lake Trout

Lake trout are by far the largest of the trouts. They live in deep, cold lakes and feeds on virtually all forms of flesh which exist in its home waters. It's rich flaky flesh makes it a tasty table favorite. During early spring, lake trout can often be found in the shallows of lakes, readily taking dry flies, wet flies, and other slow-moving presentations. As surface temperatures rise, these trout typically migrate to deeper waters, prompting anglers to employ trolling with heavier tackle as the primary technique using spoons and baitfish-imitating lures. More...

Trout Fishing Waters

Creeks, streams and rivers provide a majority of the trout fishing in South Dakota. However, a few of the major lakes contain schools of trout including Lake Oahe, Shadehill Reservoir, Deerfield Lake and Canyon lake.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Select the best trout lures and baits

Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.

South Dakota State Record Trout

The state record rainbow trout was caught from the Oahe Tailwaters.

The state record cutthroat trout was taken out of Rapid Creek.

The state record brook trout was taken out of Deerfield Lake.

The state record brown trout came from Canyon Lake.

The state record lake trout was caught out of Pactola Reservoir.

The state record tiger trout was caught in Center Lake.

Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.

Big rainbow trout swim in state waters. Grab some gear and go trout fishing soon!

Visit the South Dakota Division of Wildlife website for information about trout fishing. Click here for additional information about trout stocking in SD.

Brown Trout — Brown trout being released.

The 5 primary trouts are the rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.