Lake Oahe 2010 Fishing Outlook

Ice depth is well over 12 inches. With the 30-day weather forecast of normal temperatures ahead of us, it will probably be near April before the water is open for boat use in our area.

Lake Oahe water levels: The lake is currently at about 1,608 feet above sea level. The latest Corps of Engineers forecast shows about an 8-foot increase in water level this spring, putting it at about 1,616 feet during June. This is a couple of feet higher than June 2009.

Ice spearing reports this winter show plentiful walleyes, along with large schools of smelt of all sizes, but not as much shad as recent years. Other bait fish, such as lake herring and perch, have been seen through the ice.

The South Dakota Game Fish and Parks reports excellent walleye populations in Lake Oahe. The lower third of the lake contains the most and largest walleyes at this time. Their 2010 Outlook report shows that over 25% of the walleyes in lower Lake Oahe are over 20 inches, which is exactly consistent with the limit of one 20+ incher out of the four daily limit.

Smallmouth bass fishing should continue to be excellent also. Last year oodles of 19-inch smallies were caught. They ought to be a little bigger this year. Many fishermen on Oahe release caught smallies, preferring to eat walleye, however, they are a riot to catch because of their aggressiveness and tendency to jump out of the water. You can start catching them regularly in mid-May, along with the peaking white bass bite.

Salmon fishing is predicted to be good again. You can start catching them in this area in late May in shallow water. Expect sizes from 7 to 15 pounds. They are great eating.

Large northern pike are not plentiful, but are here. Spawning conditions have been good the past couple of years, so look for some hammer handles to hit your line.

As the lake starts to open, we will provide postings on the progress as well as spring pike fishing success.