Fishing Lake Sharpe

AKA: Sharpe Lake

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, white bass, yellow perch, Chinook salmon, northern pike, sauger and sturgeon at Lake Sharpe in South Dakota.

Notorious for big walleye and smallmouth bass, Lake Sharpe is populated with quite a variety of fish species. Fishing enthusiasts can pursue bass, catfish, crappie, walleye, white bass, perch, salmon, pike and sturgeon.

Lake Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Fishing Boat Rentals
Boat Launch Ramps
Marinas
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Lake Video

Lake Sharpe is an expansive reservoir located on the Missouri River in central South Dakota, forming part of the Missouri River reservoir system. This picturesque lake stretches approximately 80 miles from Oahe Dam to Big Bend Dam and offers a variety of fishing opportunities for both novice and seasoned anglers.

Walleye fishing is a major highlight at Lake Sharpe. Anglers flock to its waters year-round to target this prized species known for its delicious taste and challenging fight. The lake's vast expanse provides ample space for walleye to roam, making it an ideal destination for a successful fishing trip.

Black crappie and white crappie are also prevalent in Lake Sharpe. Anglers can find them in the shallower areas and near submerged structures, especially during the spring spawning season. Crappie fishing at Lake Sharpe is popular among families and those seeking a relaxing day on the water.

Smallmouth and largemouth bass are abundant in the lake, offering excellent sportfishing opportunities. Anglers can enjoy the thrill of catching these feisty bass species amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the surrounding bluffs and shorelines.

Chinook salmon, aka king salmon, is another prized species found in Lake Sharpe. Anglers often target them during the cooler months, particularly in spring and fall, when these migratory fish move closer to the dam areas.

Sauger, a close cousin of walleye, is another species commonly caught in Lake Sharpe. With its aggressive feeding behavior, sauger provides an exciting challenge for anglers.

Northern pike, yellow perch, white bass, and channel catfish round out the list of popular fish species in the lake. Anglers can experience a diverse range of fishing opportunities, each offering its own unique set of challenges and rewards.

This is an 80-mile long impoundment of the Missouri River. There are over 55,000 acres, and 200 miles of shoreline, so there are plenty of places to wet a line. Sharpe Lake is located in the central part of the state, running from Pierre to Fort Thompson. There are plenty of camping and lodging option, mostly gathered nearby the cities at the two ends of the lake. Boat ramps are located at numerous spots around the lake with the launch ramp at Fort Pierre getting high praise for the fish cleaning station. There are plenty of places to fish from the bank at recreational areas, campgrounds and other public access areas. Local fishing guides offer a variety of trip packages, the most popular ones focus on walleye and smallmouth bass fishing.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Sharpe

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Sharpe Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Aside from fishing, Lake Sharpe is a haven for boating enthusiasts. Its calm waters and ample space provide a perfect setting for various water activities, from leisurely cruises to water sports.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Ft Randall Marina
Rentals: Kayaks and pontoon boats
605 491-1003

Fun Time Rentals
Rentals: Pontoon boats
605 222-5995

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Cedar Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off State Route 1806, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Chapelle Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off 312th Avenue, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Farm Island State Recreation Area Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, off Boat Ramp Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Joe Creek Bay Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Joe Creek Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Little Bend Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off County Road 3, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

North Shore Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, east side, off N Shore Drive, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Northwest Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, west side, off E Main Avenue, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Pierre Marina Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, east side, off S Washington Avenue, this is two, two-lane, concrete ramps with docks and paved parking.

Tailrace Recreation Area East Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, east side, off Power House Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Tailrace Recreation Area West Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, west side, off Power House Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Soldier Recreation Area Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, west side, off State Route 47, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

South Iron Nation Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off South Iron Nation Boat Ramp Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

West Bend State Recreation Area Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Westbend Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Marinas

Downs Marina
800 S. Washington
Pierre, SD 57501
605 224-5533

Click here for a South Dakota Fishing License.

Camping facilities along the lake's shores make it an excellent destination for those seeking an extended outdoor adventure. Whether you prefer pitching a tent or staying in a cabin, the camping options cater to a range of preferences.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Oahe Downstream Recreation Area Campground - 605 223-7722

Farm Island Recreation Area Campground - 605 773-2885

Fischers Lilly Park Campground - 605 223-7690

West Bend State Recreation Area Campground - 605 773-2885

Left Tailrace Campground - 605 245-2173

River View RV Park - 605 280-6266