South Dakota
Fishing
A resident fishing license in South Dakota costs $28 a year and a non-resident license $91, as of May 2026. This guide lists 5 top species (Walleye, Northern pike, Smallmouth bass, Perch, Trout (Black Hills)) and 4 notable waters, led by Lake Oahe and Lake Francis Case. South Dakota has no saltwater coast and no notable wild trout fishery; it earns a B+ grade here, shared with 10 other states.
Top Species
Resident License
Non-Resident License
Saltwater Access
Trout Streams
World-Class Distinction
Wildlife Agency
South Dakota walleye fishing is among the top five in the country. Lake Oahe — a 231-mile Missouri River impoundment straddling the North Dakota border — consistently produces trophy walleye in the 8 to 12-pound range. Lake Francis Case and Lake Sharpe are part of the same Missouri River chain and add to the walleye opportunity.
The Black Hills in the western part of the state provide a different experience — cold streams stocked with rainbow and brown trout, accessible from Rapid City. Pactola Reservoir and Sheridan Lake in the Hills hold trout and bass.
Resident licenses cost $28. If you move to South Dakota, the walleye fishing on the Missouri chain is the primary draw. Chamberlain and Pierre are the towns closest to the best water on Oahe. Guide services are professional and familiar with the lake's enormous size. This is a walleye state, and it is very good at it.
Lake Oahe and Lake Francis Case on the Missouri River are among the best walleye fisheries in North America. The Black Hills provide gold ribbon trout streams including the Spearfish Creek and Rapid Creek. South Dakota's combination of prairie reservoir walleye and Black Hills trout makes it surprisingly strong for fishing.
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Also on South Dakota: the full South Dakota profile covers taxes, cost of living, crime and schools, and the county map lets you compare every county in the state. For related rules, read the South Dakota country music guide and the South Dakota gambling laws guide.
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Sources: State wildlife agencies, US Fish & Wildlife Service, Bassmaster, Field & Stream, In-Fisherman, Fly Fisherman magazine. License costs reflect annual resident/non-resident fishing license only; additional stamps (trout, salmon) may apply. Updated May 2026.