Page 6 - VisitorGuide2019

Panfish
Bluegill, crappie, large mouth bass, and perch dominate the
dozens of small lakes and ponds within a short drive of Pierre.
Whether caught on a fly rod or bamboo pole, these fish are
remarkable for their aggressive attacks on everything from
poppers to worms.

Boat Ramps
More than three dozen boat ramps dot the shores of Lake
Oahe and Lake Sharpe; access to Lake Oahe sites depends
on the reservoir’s water levels. The map on page 28-29 shows
the locations of area boat ramps. Visit the Web site of the
state Game, Fish and Parks Department, www.gfp.sd.gov, for
updated information on possible ramp closings.

Fishing Licenses
May 18 through May 19, 2019 is the State Parks Open House
Weekend. During this time, anyone may fish in South Dakota
without a license. The rest of the year, however, licenses are
required for residents and nonresidents.
U.S. and Canadian citizens who are over 16 and have valid
Social Security numbers (not required of Canadian citizens) can
purchase over-the-counter licenses online at www.gfp.sd.gov;
a credit card and a printer are needed to buy the license and
print it for use. Parents may purchase youth permits for their
children.
Those who need to present some other form of physical
documentation (e.g., nonresident students attending school in
South Dakota) must purchase their licenses from a storefront
agent.
Non-U.S./Canadian citizens who need to purchase fishing
licenses in advance of entering the United States should
call Game, Fish and Parks, (605) 223-7660, to make special
arrangements.

6 | PIERRE VISITOR GUIDE