Cast a line in clear mountain streams, quiet forest lakes and some of the Black Hills’ most scenic reservoirs. From fly fishing for wild trout in Spearfish Creek to a relaxed day along the shore or fishing the deeper waters of Pactola, the Black Hills offer opportunities for beginners, families and experienced anglers alike.
A South Dakota fishing license is required for most anglers, and regulations vary by location, species and section of water. Be sure to review current South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks regulations before fishing.
STREAMS & FLY FISHING
1. Spearfish Creek
Location: Spearfish & Spearfish Canyon, SD
Best For: Trout & Fly Fishing
Description: One of the Black Hills’ premier trout streams, flowing through Spearfish Canyon and directly through the city of Spearfish. Anglers can find wild brown and rainbow trout along scenic stretches with numerous access points throughout the canyon and town.
More Info: https://visitspearfish.com/things-to-do/freshwater-fishing
2. Rapid Creek
Location: Central Black Hills & Rapid City, SD
Best For: Trout & Fly Fishing
Description: One of the region’s best-known trout streams, with fishing opportunities extending from the Black Hills into Rapid City. The stretch below Pactola Reservoir is particularly well known among fly anglers.
More Info: https://www.visitrapidcity.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/fishing/
3. Castle Creek
Location: Deerfield Lake Area, SD
Best For: Trout & Fly Fishing
Description: A beautiful mountain stream flowing into and out of Deerfield Lake, with opportunities for brook, rainbow and brown trout in a quieter Black Hills setting.
4. Spring Creek
Location: Sheridan Lake Area, SD
Best For: Trout & Fly Fishing
Description: Flowing into and out of Sheridan Lake, Spring Creek offers scenic trout water and is particularly popular with fly anglers exploring the Central Black Hills.
LAKES & RESERVOIRS
5. Iron Creek Lake
Location: Spearfish Canyon Area, SD
Best For: Rainbow Trout & Yellow Perch
Description: A smaller mountain lake tucked into the Northern Black Hills west of Spearfish Canyon. Its manageable size and peaceful forest setting make it an approachable option for a casual day of fishing.
6. Pactola Reservoir
Location: Central Black Hills, SD
Best For: Trout & Lake Fishing
Description: The largest reservoir in the Black Hills and one of the region’s premier fishing destinations, with deep, clear water and opportunities for several species including trout and northern pike. Shore access, boat ramps and numerous recreation areas make it suitable for several styles of fishing.
More Info: https://www.fs.usda.gov/blackhills
7. Deerfield Lake
Location: Deerfield, SD
Best For: Trout & Quiet-Water Fishing
Description: A peaceful mountain reservoir surrounded by Black Hills National Forest and known for trout fishing. Its slower pace and scenic setting make it an excellent choice for anglers looking to get away from the busier recreation areas.
More Info: https://www.fs.usda.gov/blackhills
8. Sheridan Lake
Location: Central Black Hills, SD
Best For: Trout & Warm-Water Species
Description: A popular recreation and fishing lake with shoreline access, boat ramps and a mix of fishing opportunities. Its convenient location makes it easy to combine with a day exploring the Central Black Hills.
More Info: https://www.fs.usda.gov/blackhills
9. Sylvan Lake
Location: Custer State Park, SD
Best For: Trout & Family Fishing
Description: One of the Black Hills’ most recognizable mountain lakes, surrounded by dramatic granite formations. Fishing can easily be combined with hiking, picnicking or a day exploring Custer State Park.
More Info: https://gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/custer-state-park/
10. Horsethief Lake
Location: Keystone, SD
Best For: Trout & Family Fishing
Description: A small, easily accessible mountain lake near Mount Rushmore offering rainbow trout fishing, shoreline access and a beautiful forest setting that works especially well for a relaxed family outing.
More Info: https://www.fs.usda.gov/blackhills
FISHING LICENSES & REGULATIONS
Fishing regulations vary throughout the Black Hills, and some stretches of water have special catch-and-release, bait or tackle restrictions. Always check current regulations before fishing.
South Dakota Fishing Licenses & Regulations:
https://gfp.sd.gov/fishing-boating/
South Dakota Fishing Handbook:
https://gfp.sd.gov/fishing-boating/
Black Hills Fishing Information:
https://visitspearfish.com/things-to-do/freshwater-fishing