Get the appFishing index · by state
South Dakota's Missouri River reservoirs are walleye factories, with the stretch below Oahe and Chamberlain producing some of the best numbers on the river.
Big Sioux River · Lake Vermillion
Weather data by Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0). Index scores and water-temperature estimates are our own derivation from that data.
The score on each city card is computed from the local weather forecast for today. Open a city page for the full seven-day outlook, factor breakdown and recommended windows. Fishing rules in South Dakota vary by water type and season, so always check the current regulations before you go.
Seasonally, South Dakota's strongest month across 2 years of recorded weather at Sioux Falls is August — 71% of its days rate Good or better — and December is the weakest at 5%. That is roughly 101 good days a year. See the season report for the best time of year to fish in South Dakota and every other state's month-by-month table.
South Dakota's Missouri River reservoirs are walleye factories, with the stretch below Oahe and Chamberlain producing some of the best numbers on the river. Use the city page below for a live weather-based index, then check the South Dakota wildlife agency for seasons and limits.
Yes, anglers 16 and older need a South Dakota fishing license. Buy through the South Dakota state wildlife or natural-resources agency; rules can differ between freshwater and tidal water.
The LureScore index is an informational planning signal based on weather, not a guarantee of fish activity or a catch. Always follow local regulations.