Fishing Lake Poinsett

AKA: Poinsett Lake

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Popular Fish Species Lake Poinsett, SD

Walleye Fishing

Thanks to a significant baitfish population, and presence of numerous small sunfish in the lake, walleye are thriving in the fertile waters of Lake Poinsett this year. May and June tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower, closer to shore and begin spawning. Rock and gravel are preferred areas for the spawn. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, stay around schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. Walleye have excellent, low-light vision which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water during low light conditions. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times. When the lake freezes over in winter, ice fishing for walleye can be very productive. Use GPS to locate spots you normally fish during other times of the year.

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Lake Poinsett continues to sustain a robust smallmouth bass population. Many locals enjoy smallmouth fishing, as smallies are tough fighters and very exciting to catch. Smallmouth bass fishing is good virtually anytime they are shallow. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with small worms, jigs and spoons. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish. When the lake freezes over, consider ice fishing for smallies.

Yellow Perch Fishing

Yellow perch tend to spawn in the April to May timeframe, and the spawn has been strong for years at Lake Poinsett. As a result, the lake continues to maintain a very healthy population of yellow perch, which have been a mainstay in the fishery for decades. They are fun to catch in winter when ice fishing as well. Yellow perch are great table fare, and are a food source for many predator fish in the lake. Fishing for yellow perch is simple, their primary diet consists of minnows and other small fish, insects and worms. Yellow perch tend to gather in small groups and hang out on relatively deep structure, near cover and/or drop-offs. Use a small hook and sinker. Bait a small hook with minnows, worms or small jigs using 6 to 10 pound line.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, green sunfish, orangespotted sunfish, white bass, yellow perch, Chinook salmon and northern pike at Lake Poinsett in South Dakota.

Lake Poinsett Fishing Video

Lake Poinsett is a popular recreational and fishing destination situated in eastern South Dakota. Located near the town of Arlington, it is easily accessible and draws anglers and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.

Offering a wide range of fish species, and easy access to shoreline fishing, Lake Poinsett is an 7,900-acre lake, at Stone Bridge. Over 16 miles of sandy or rocky shoreline await anglers fishing.

One of the main attractions for fishing in Lake Poinsett is the abundance of walleye. This prized species can be found in good numbers throughout the lake, offering anglers a chance to catch some impressive specimens. From early spring to late fall, walleye fishing at Lake Poinsett is a favorite activity for many anglers.

The lake also boasts healthy populations of black crappie and white crappie. Anglers looking for a fun and rewarding fishing experience often target these panfish. Crappie can be found in and around submerged structures, such as brush piles and docks, making them accessible for both boat and shore anglers.

Smallmouth bass are another popular species that can be found in Lake Poinsett. These feisty fighters provide thrilling battles and are highly sought after by anglers seeking a challenging catch. The lake's rocky shorelines and drop-offs offer ideal habitats for smallmouth bass.

Chinook salmon is a unique and exciting addition to Lake Poinsett's fishing opportunities. While not as abundant as other species, anglers can still have a rewarding experience targeting these powerful and acrobatic fish.

Northern pike are also prevalent in Lake Poinsett. Known for their aggressive strikes and impressive size, northern pike offer anglers a chance to reel in some formidable catches.

Yellow perch and white bass add to the diversity of species in the lake. These panfish are both fun to catch and delicious to eat, making them popular targets for anglers of all ages.

Channel catfish round out the list of popular fish species in Lake Poinsett. Anglers can enjoy pursuing these bottom-dwelling fish using a variety of baits and techniques.

Ice fishing for walleye, perch and crappie is popular in winter, and the fishing is considered good pretty much year round. Areas for fishing from the bank are available at the recreation areas, campgrounds and some open areas of shore around the lake. Lodging, restaurants and stores are all at, or nearby, the lake.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Poinsett

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Poinsett Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a common activity on Lake Poinsett, as the lake provides ample space for watercraft. Whether fishing or simply cruising the waters, boaters can enjoy the scenic beauty and recreational opportunities that the lake offers.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Lake Poinsett Campground 1 Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off S Lake Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Lake Poinsett NE Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off 458th Avenue, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Lake Poinsett NW Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, off NW Lake Drive, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Lake Poinsett SW Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off US Highway 81, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Fishing Guides On Lake Poinsett

South Dakota Guided Fishing - perch, walleye, bass

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Fishing License

Click here for a South Dakota Fishing License.

Camping facilities around Lake Poinsett allow anglers and visitors to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the lake's natural surroundings. Camping by the water provides a serene and relaxing experience, allowing guests to enjoy the beauty of the lake during all hours of the day.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Lake Poinsett State Recreation Area Campground - 605 983-5085

Lake Poinsett Camp Campground - 605 983-5547

Lake Poinsett Estates RV Park - 605 983-4607

Lake Poinsett SD Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

Lake Poinsett
Lake Poinsett State Recreation Area
45617 S Poinsett Dr
Arlington, SD 57212
605 983-5085

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