Smallouth Bass Fishing on Lake Oahe, SD

Some Key Points About Fishing Smallmouth Bass on Lake Oahe

• Smallmouth Bass usually spawn in early June on Lake Oahe.
• Early they are in shallow water, but as the water warms and they spawn, they move out deeper like the walleyes.
• When the water starts to warm, pitch jigs tipped with minnows (or worms) or small spoons/plugs into the shallow water in areas with vegetation and rocky points.
• Once they move deeper, use plain hooks, shiny spinners, and bottom bouncer with minnows or night crawlers.
• The state record smallmouth of 7 lbs, 4 oz. was set in the Whitlock Bay area in 2021.
• Bass are attracted to shiny things, so keep your poles secure as they have been known to jump up and take your pole right out of your boat.