With thousands of miles of shoreline in the area, there is no shortage of water, and therefore, no shortage of water recreation. Rest assured, there is also no shortage of prime area fishing.

Our various ponds, lakes, and the Mighty Missouri all provide ample opportunity to enjoy fishing this year. With 27 public access boat ramps, you’re sure to find your spot in the action. If a boat doesn’t make the trip to Pierre with you, and you’re not in the market for renting one, there are plenty of incredible shore-fishing spots in the area.

Lake Oahe, Farm Island, La Fromboise, and the list grows lengthier for scenic, successful shoreline fishing spots in our area.

With miles to spread out on, you won’t be crowded or crammed in your fishing experience. Rather, you’ll be able to savor the peace of the prairie with your rod and reel in hand.

Also, you don’t have to wait for spring or summer to arrive to get your catch of the year. Our waters are open year-round for fishing. On a crisp fall morning, or during a brisk winter sunrise, Pierre is an incredible fishing destination!

Walleye, of course, is the primary draw for anglers in our area. There are multiple other species of fish worth casting a line for, and most all of them are as tasty to fry as they are fun to catch. We’ve had record catches in our area for chinook salmon, pike, and more, in addition to landing giant walleye from our waters.

Previously, we were able to share some local secrets about fishing, when Buddy Seiner told us what he loves about fishing in Pierre (and also introduced us to a walleye cheek – yes, cheek – chowder recipe).

If you’re interested in the species available, area fishing guides, fishing spots available for public use, etc., please visit our link here for more information. Please also familiarize yourself with fishing regulations, found here on the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks site.

As always, if you’d like to learn more about waterways or fishing availability in our area, www.visitpierresd.com is the hot spot with all the info.

The post Fishing Opportunities & Water Access in Pierre appeared first on Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce.

As soon as you cross the Missouri River into town, the Discovery Center greets you along the river’s edge. With exhibits and hands-on activities, you’ll want to make this a stop for each life-long learner in your traveling crew. The whole family will find something to enjoy and appreciate while touring the Discovery Center’s educational experience.

In the center of Pierre, where the Capitol building is visible from nearly every block, you’ll find entertaining theater of both the traditional and on-screen variety. If a big-screen movie is what you’re after, Pierre’s Movie Theater has multiple showings available that will surely fit in with your available time in town.

Just a couple of blocks away, Pierre Players perform class-act plays throughout the year in the historic downtown theater. Known for their endearing theatrical performances, you’re sure to catch a show you’ll remember.

The Capitol building itself is available to tour or to sit in on a legislative session in-person beginning in early January. Some part of the building is visible from almost every point in town, making it one of Pierre’s most notable landmarks.

Continuing across town, you’ll come across a building literally tucked away in one of Pierre’s hillsides. A museum unlike any other, the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center encapsulates the history of our area and state in a distinctive, remarkable fashion.  Whether you’re a history buff or seeking a memorable experiential adventure, this is a stop you’re going to want to be sure to make while in Pierre.

After a day of rigorous activity, you may want to relax with some set-your-own-pace fun. On the east side of town, Lariat Lanes has it all: bowling, arcade games, pool tables, and food and drink to sustain you while you play. Whether your traveling group is solitary, small, or large, there is a little something for everyone to enjoy at Lariat Lanes.

Before heading back to your hotel, or out of town on your way to your next destination, don’t miss stopping at the Oahe Family YMCA. With room to run (or swim), our local Y provides the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and let the kids get their wiggles out.

No matter which side of town you find yourself, there is plenty to do to stay warm, entertained, and enriched while you’re visiting Pierre.

For more information on what to do during your stay, visit pierre.org.

The post Winter Fun (Indoors!) In Pierre appeared first on Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce.

If the most important facet of real estate is “location, location, location,” diners will be pleased to know there are restaurants located all over town. No matter the event or the attraction that brings you to Pierre, you can bet there’s a memorable food and drink experience to be had nearby.

Along with more than its fair share of fast-food dining availability, Pierre is home to many unique and memorable dining amenities that will suit any taste, any craving, and any vacation dining desire.

In the mood for a river view? Drifters has the best view in town, and their menu changes to accommodate their locally sourced ingredients. Outdoor dining is available during the summer, mere feet from the shoreline. Indoor dining year-round, however, has the advantage of the large windows which give a picturesque view of the river in all of its glory.

If you’re looking for a more cosmopolitan experience, historic downtown Pierre has a host of bars and restaurants to choose from. The unique atmosphere of Mad Mary’s Steakhouse takes you back in time while serving up flavorful, traditional steakhouse meals. LaMinestra, right next door, offers a peaceful, yet sophisticated atmosphere in which you can enjoy the family-owned feel of delicious, authentic Italian food. You can polish off your evening downtown with a nightcap from The Longbranch or a sweet-or-savory specialty treat from South Dakota Popcorn.

Along other bustling parts of town, you’ll find RedRossa, Guadalajara’s, Richie Z’s, and Tom’s Diner. All of them are unique from one another, but none of them will leave you dissatisfied.

Just on the outskirts of town with a country view and old-fashioned atmosphere, the Cattleman’s Club Steakhouse serves up a menu full of savor and nostalgia.

Dinners aren’t the only draw to dine in town. Lighter eating and dessert have a special niche locally with homemade flair from Branding Iron Bistro and Pure Bliss Bakery. The small-town local feel of these eateries is as comforting as the food is delicious.

Have time for a meal between shopping errands? Northridge Plaza hosts Japanese Cuisine and Gator’s Pizza, both guaranteed to please the palate depending on your taste for the day.

Just about every restaurant in town provides meals to go if you’re in the mood for a meal along the river while fishing, or a quiet picnic in a local park.

As your eventful visit to Pierre draws to a close, on your way out to the airport, you can stop in at Bickering Brother’s Brewery for a sampling of South Dakota’s first state-made liquor.

These are only a few of the many wonderful dining venues in Pierre, each embracing its own atmosphere, menu specialty, and dining experience. With friendly service, tasty food, and a plethora of options, Pierre doesn’t disappoint when it comes to dining out.

For more information on Pierre’s dining options, visit our listings here.

The post Pierre: A Dining Experience appeared first on Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce.

Thus, a tradition was born.

While Christmas at the Capitol has evolved since its debut in 1981, the mission has remained the same: Enchance Christmas spirit at the Capitol.

Dottie Howe continued to produce a worthwhile event at the capitol for the next 16 years, with 30 trees in 1988 and 50 trees in 1997. This year, the 40th year of Christmas at the Capitol, 83 trees stand on three levels of the capitol building, decorated by various organizations, families, and groups from around the state.

The China Painters of South Dakota decorate a tree with hand-painted ornaments each year, and some of the painted ornaments from 40 years ago are still in use today.

Dawn Hill explains the multitude of sponsors and volunteers it takes each year to keep Christmas at the Capitol going strong. From the retrieval and transport of the trees to members of the decoration committee, corporations, and the community, Christmas at the Capitol would not be what it is today without strong state and local support.

From a simple favor asked in 1981, the most unique and spirited capitol holiday tradition in the country continues to this day.

Hopefully, you can make it to “Pie Day” at the Capitol, this December 4th. If you can’t, however, be sure to choose another day to wander the hallways of the Capitol building to observe the masterful tree decorations, the dazzling lights, and the living history of a beloved South Dakota holiday tradition.

Drawing between 20 – 25,000 visitors each year (even from 14-25 foreign countries), Christmas at the Capitol is more than just another holiday display. It’s truly an all-American staple of the Christmas season.

For more details on Christmas at the Capitol, visit here.

The post Christmas at the Capitol: 40 Years Strong appeared first on Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce.

Aside from the marvelous scenery, fall also marks the onset of several hunting seasons in the area: deer, turkey, and pheasant to name a few.

Once the hunt is successful and the meat stocks the shelves of your freezer, what are the best ways to prepare it? A field-to-table process can be just as rewarding in flavor as it was in hunting success.

Here are some recipes we’ve rounded up from around the country.

Travel South Dakota put together a drool-worthy page of recipes for pheasant on their site you can view by clicking here.

Another simple but satisfying way to serve pheasant is to fry it up the old-fashioned way. Amounts are subject to taste and how much meat you have available, but here are some guidelines to get you started.

Fried Pheasant

3/4 c. flour
1/4 c. cornmeal
Salt and pepper to taste
2 eggs, beaten
Pheasant breasts, thighs, legs, etc (or cut into large pieces for more of a “nugget” type meal)
Oil, for frying

In a large skillet, pour enough oil to cover the bottom for frying. Heat the oil in the skillet over medium heat. Mix the flour, salt, pepper, and cornmeal together on a plate. Dredge the pheasant pieces in the eggs, then dredge in the flour mixture. Carefully place dredged pheasant pieces into skillet, turning and cooking until browned on all sides. Remove pheasant pieces from skillet and place on a paper towel covered plate to drain.

(You could also forego the egg and dredge first in melted butter, then the flour mixture.)

Looking for wild turkey recipes instead? We found some delicious-looking ones here.

If you’re looking for a way to prepare venison in such a way to have people asking for more, you know you can’t go wrong with recipes from Taste of Home. This page is loaded with tried-and-true venison recipes from people across the country.

No matter what your hunting season has in store, we hope your field-to-table experience is a memorable one.

For more information about the Pierre area, be sure to visit www.visitpierresd.com or contact the Pierre Area Chamber.

The post From Field To Table: Fall Hunting Recipes appeared first on Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce.

If you’d like to receive your Rooster Rush t-shirt (and other 2021 Rooster Rush Merchandise), you’ll need to act fast! Orders are only being accepted until September 27^th to guarantee our early October shipping date.

You can get your customized* gear by visiting our Rooster Rush store link here. Rooster Rush is October 11^th – 15^th and Pierre is ready! Are you?

(* If you wish to customize your order, simply enter a note in the order comments section at checkout, and a representative from Quality Quick Print will contact you for details.)

It’s hard to believe fall is right around the corner, but it’s a season in Pierre, South Dakota many people look forward to.

In addition to the colorful, seasonal scenery, fall is a time of hunting adventure in the Pierre area.

Pheasants are, of course, the prime reward in this area, but they’re not the only (tasty) game available to hunt around these parts.

Whether you get excited about big game like whitetail or mule deer, pronghorn antelope, or wild turkey – or whether you enjoy spending time on the smaller game like upland game birds, or even prairie dogs – there are plenty of choices to make your Pierre hunting experience a memorable one.

Thousands of acres of public land give every hunter ample opportunity to fill their tag each fall. In addition to the miles of public land, there are innumerable private and guided hunts available in the hills and rural areas surrounding Pierre.

(You can read more from our interview with one of those guides, Don Korkow, in our last post.)

Be sure you equip yourself with the latest regulations on your hunting areas and species by visiting the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks website. If you get to Pierre and realize you still need some hunting supplies, Lynn’s Dakotamart Sporting Goods is conveniently located near downtown Pierre and will most likely have what you need!

For more details on Rooster Rush or available hunting in the Pierre area, be sure to visit www.visitpierresd.com or contact the Pierre Area Chamber.

Happy hunting!

The post Pierre Fall Hunting appeared first on Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce.

It’s not necessarily a well-kept secret, either, as many hunters and anglers travel to the area to fill their tags or their catch limits. The locals are keen on hunting and fishing activities in the area as well, so does that mean all the “good spots” are taken?

Buddy Seiner, a Pierre resident, says no. “Even if there are a lot of people out, there’s still area to spread out and find your own spot.” With over 2,500 miles of shoreline available around the Pierre area, you’re bound to find your own special spot to cast your line.

Additionally, Pierre boasts a vast availability of public land, especially along the river, where hunting and fishing can take place without bumping into anyone else.

Any hunter or angler has the option of trekking on a self-guided outing or hiring a guide to lead them to the prize.

Don Korkow, of Korkow Ranch, emphasizes it’s not simply bagging a limit of pheasants that draws hunters to their guided pheasant trips. “It’s about the camaraderie. It’s about having fun, enjoying who you’re hunting with, enjoying the hunt, enjoying the dogs, and the fun you have with the groups.”

Korkow Ranch hosts hunters from about 35 states each year; groups of people who seek out and appreciate what the Pierre area has to offer in the way of abundant wildlife habitat, hunting success, and good old-fashioned working ranch fun.

A successful fishing trip or hunting expedition isn’t the only perk of Pierre, however. “The community itself – restaurants, dog-friendly hotels, the local people – are really friendly toward anglers and hunters,” says Seiner.

“The cold, clear, clean water in our area is second to none, not just in the state but in the country.” Seiner marveled at how the ecosystem of the Missouri River in the Pierre area doesn’t need to be stocked but is able to sustain itself. “It’s pretty spectacular in that way.”

For having year-round fishing available, a strong water habitat supporting multiple species of fish is icing on the cake.

There are also other activities that can be combined with fishing: hiking, camping, snowshoeing. No matter the season, there are adventures that companion well with a day spent fishing.

Korkow comments how different seasons can be experienced in a single hunting outing. “Be prepared. I tell people to bring plenty of clothes for any kind of weather. Snow, rain, sleet, hail, anything.” From winter extremes to summer heat, the weather can change in an instant on the hunting trail. “Bring plenty of clothes and bring extra shells. Some don’t bring near enough shells.” He reiterated, “If you hear anything, be prepared. Bring the clothes. That’s so important.”

While he didn’t offer up a favorite pheasant recipe, Don Korkow did share how he makes some mouth-watering pancakes. Korkow Ranch serves hunters breakfast before the outing begins, and the menu (including his special-ingredient, fluffy pancakes) will be sure to fill the belly and soul of any pheasant hunter.

Buddy Seiner’s favorite way to prepare Pierre’s Walleye is to grill it with salt, pepper, and butter but admits he’s especially fond of cheek chowder. “It’s a good fall recipe.”

With the public land available in and around the Pierre area, Seiner remarks, “Pierre is the place you can go out in the morning and shoot pheasants, catch walleye in the evening, and enjoy the night relaxing.”

And that sums it up perfectly. Whether you’re here for hunting, fishing, or both, Pierre has unique environment, expertise, and experience to offer.

For more details on available hunting and fishing in the Pierre area, visit  www.visitpierresd.com or contact the Pierre Area Chamber today.

The post Hunting & Fishing in the Pierre Area appeared first on Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Missouri River (fun fact: The Missouri is the longest river in North America at 2,341 miles in length) hosts a plethora of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in and around the Pierre area in South Dakota.

In addition to the traditional, and impressive, fireworks display along the river every July 4^th, Pierre has seemingly limitless chances to enjoy the Mighty Missouri up close and personal. Each year, Pierre welcomes people from across the country – and the world – who come to experience life on the Missouri.

Fishing

Fishing on the Missouri is not only a favorite pastime, but a widely sought-after sport. In a recent MeatEater article, Pierre was named the #1 destination for state capital fishing. And for good reason! With the river’s cool, clear waters, anglers have found success both along the banks shore fishing, and on the water from boating access.

Walleye, chinook salmon, bass, pike, and catfish only make up a fraction of the list of available fish within the waters of the Mighty Missouri. While Pierre has an extensive list of area attractions, fishing ranks a top motivator for people arriving in the area during the summer months.

You can seek your own favorite spot on the river or book a guided fishing trip from one of our local guides. Either way, you’re bound to get “hooked” on fishing in Pierre.

Boating

The river provides ample space and environment for more than just fishing. Boating of any kind – pontooning, motorboating, canoeing, kayaking, and sailing are all ways boaters can enjoy the views and serenity the river provides our area.

Of course, you can’t water ski without a proper boat to tow you, and you’ll often see skiers and innertubers enjoying the wakes and ripples on a leisurely afternoon.

Windsurfing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding are also creative ways people get around on the river any given day.

Swimming

If deeper waters aren’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of shallow shoreline areas to enjoy the river from. Farm Island, La Fromboise Island, along with several parks that line the shore provide plenty of recreational areas where getting your feet wet (or all-out splashing) is not only permitted, but encouraged.

Whether you bring your own watercrafts or book a rental, catch fish or just a tan, the Missouri River in Pierre is waiting for you.

For more details on water sports and activities in the Pierre area, visit the Visitor Center or contact the Pierre Area Chamber.

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