KWAT’s Outdoor Report for week of February 8, 2021
Aberdeen Area
Fishing Report
Anglers are reminded that ice conditions are not good throughout the area. Driving any kind of vehicle on the ice is not recommended.
Richmond: There is still open water by the north and west bridges. Anglers have been catching some perch, crappie, and walleye.
Mina: Anglers have been catching small perch, bluegill, and walleye.
Elm: There are weak spots by the resort bridge and west arm of the lake. Anglers have been catching some perch and walleye.
Hosmer Slough: Anglers have been catching some small perch.
James River and Elm River: The ice is not safe to fish. There are open water areas by Weismantel Grade and the gates of Sand Lake Refuge where anglers have been open water fishing and catching some northern pike.
Clark County
Fishing Report
A long cold week in Clark County has left the lakes pretty quiet recently. Seems that a few walleye and perch are still being caught on Dry 1, Dry 2 and Reid Lake.
Codington County
Fishing Report
Goose: Fishermen are still catching 13-15 inch walleye with a few over 20 inches mixed in. The State ramp in the NW corner of the lake is now open for use.
Kampeska: Fishermen are catching a few walleye, northern pike, perch and crappies. The bite continued to be slower this past weekend.
Pelican Lake: Little fishing activity. Use caution in the Whites point area to the state park, as that was open water as of last week.
Blythe Slough: Little fishing activity. When accessing the lake with vehicles, access at the NW ramp or through the road right of way.
Long Lake: Fishing has been hit or miss. At times, fishermen are catching 15-18 inch walleye, with the occasional 20 plus inch fish as well. A few perch are being picked up as well.
Dry Lake: Fishermen are catching northern pike.
Day County
Fishing Report
Bitter: Not much change from last week. People are still catching perch with the occasional walleye.
Waubay: Starting to see more people on the north side trying their luck.
Pickerel: Anglers having little success on perch and bluegill.
Hamlin County
Fishing Report
Poinsett: Few fishermen continue to venture out. The bite continues to be sporadic.
Marshall County
Fishing Report
Roy: Anglers fishing near the resort and main lake points are catching a few nice northern along with perch and walleye.
Clear: Decent panfish along with the occasional small mouth bass and walleye are being caught.
Buffalo Lakes: Anglers are catching bluegill and northern fishing along main lake points.
Opitz: Anglers are finding walleye and a few perch near main lake points and submerged main lake structure.
Park Report:
Pelican Lake Recreation Area
Back by popular demand… OPERATION ADVENTURE! Join us on our 19-week, 10 program series designed for the families that love the outdoors or are ready to get involved. Every other Thursday throughout the series, we will cover diverse outdoor recreation topics that everyone can learn from, whether you’re a beginner or a lifelong sportsman. Programs go from 6-7:30 PM. All equipment will be provided. Join us February 18th for Trapping. We will meet at the picnic shelter.
Roy Lake State Park
Suites at Roy Lake State Park are 25% off now through March. There are four suites available for rent at Roy Lake State Park with two bedrooms (two double beds in each), a living area (two sleeper sofas), kitchen, and bathroom. These suites normally rent for $175/night plus tax, but for the months of February and March, they are $131.25/night plus tax. Another suite has one bedroom (two double beds), living area, kitchen, and bathroom. This suite normally rents for $120/night plus tax, but for the months of February and March, it is $90/night plus tax. Go online at www.campsd.com or call 1-800-710-2267 to rent these suites or call Roy Lake State Park at 605-448-5701 for more information.
Don’t let the cold weather deter you from getting out and enjoying our State Parks! As always, our parks are open year-round so take some time to get out and enjoy South Dakota’s State Parks! The electricity is on year-round and the camping cabins and lodges have heat, making them a great place to stay for your ice fishing adventures. Reservations can be made at campsd.com or 1-800-710-2267.
The 2021 Park Entrance License is currently for sale. Pick yours up today at any of our participating vendors in Watertown, Aberdeen and surrounding areas. These include The Cowboy Country Stores, Hy-Vee, Little River City, Gas n Goodies and the GFP office in Watertown. Aberdeen vendors include Ken’s Superfair Foods, Runnings, Kessler’s, and any GFP office.