Is there anything more relaxing than being in the great outdoors with a fishing pole in hand? Well, at times this scenario wasn’t very relaxing for my father during my younger years, since every time I cast my reel I nearly snagged the fisherman next to us. I soon became the designated lure picker, and spent most of the outing enjoying my time sitting by the water and being extremely proud when my dad caught a walleye in Lake Thompson. (After all, I’m sure my chosen lure had something to do with it.)

Even though my fishing skills are still slightly lacking, I can still appreciate a day outside by a lake, river or creek. The Black Hills have plenty of opportunities for fishing, and plenty of beautiful scenery to enjoy while doing so. Whether you’re an avid fisherman or just along to enjoy the day like me, I did a little research on where to fish in the Black Hills.

Some great spots for fly fishing according to the Black Hills Badlands and Lakes Association are Rapid Creek (either in the city limits of Rapid City or by Lake Pactola), Spring Creek by Sheridan Lake and French Creek in Custer State Park. Also, if you’ve ever gone through Spearfish Canyon, you probably noticed a good number of people taking advantage of Spearfish Creek. Other Black Hills locations I’ve heard about are Orman Damn near Belle Fourche, Stockade Lake near Custer, the Angostura Reservoir by Hot Springs, Iron Creek Lake near Spearfish and Bear Butte Lake near Sturgis.

As you may have guessed, this just barely scratches the surface of all the locations great for fishing in the Black Hills. For more sites, (and trust me, there are plenty!) you should take a look at the South Dakota Public Waters Fishing Guide. You might want to read the Game Fish and Park’s Fishing Handbook, too. There are rules and regulations that need to be followed along with a harvest limit of which you should be aware before going on your first outing. Also, don’t forget to buy your fishing license (you can get one online.)

Well, good luck on your next fishing excursion. If you need anyone to pick out your lures and be there for moral support, let me know.

For more information:
SD Game Fish and Parks
SD Tourism
Fishing Works