Lake Pelican, South Dakota

Lakes

Emerging from the heartland of east-central South Dakota, Lake Pelican is a captivating 2,800-acre freshwater haven perfect for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Boasting an impressive array of fish species, such as walleye, northern pike, and largemouth bass, Lake Pelican offers exciting opportunities for anglers to hone their skills and test their luck. The picturesque surroundings near Watertown, coupled with ample amenities and recreational options, create a serene environment where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying the unique fishing experiences that Lake Pelican has to offer.

Lake Pelican, South Dakota State Resources

South Dakota DNR Website

If you’re looking for the most up-to-date information on fishing licenses, requirements, and information about Lake Pelican you should definitely check out the South Dakota DNR. Here is their contact information and other useful links right here.

Lake Pelican Location

Lake Pelican 17450 450th Ave, Watertown, SD 57201

Helpful Links

Unlock the Great Outdoors

Why limit yourself to public land when there are millions of acres of private land to explore.

Fishing at Lake Pelican, South Dakota

Anglers visiting Lake Pelican can find a diverse range of fish species, including walleye, northern pike, and largemouth bass. The best fishing spots vary depending on the type of fish.

Walleye: Drift the southern side of Halverson Bay or trace the holes off Lincoln’s Point.
Northern Pike: Troll or drift the cabbage beds at 20 feet with sucker minnows and/or spinners.
Largemouth Bass: Fish the northeast bays, Mousseau and Nelson, or target cabbage weeds along the bars and points in the summer.

Amenities at Lake Pelican, South Dakota

Lake Pelican offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including boat rentals, campgrounds, RV hookups, lodging, convenience stores, bait & tackle shops, and restaurants. However, there is no marina available.

Available Activities at Lake Pelican, South Dakota

In addition to fishing, visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, bird watching, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife photography in the scenic surroundings of Lake Pelican.

Pros

Abundance of fish species
Beautiful scenery
Several amenities available

Cons

Can be challenging to navigate without a map
Water clarity may require extra precautions

FAQ

Do I need a fishing license to fish at Lake Pelican?

Yes, a valid South Dakota fishing license is required.

Are there any fishing regulations or limits at Lake Pelican?

Yes, it is recommended to check the current South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks regulations before fishing.

Is ice fishing allowed at Lake Pelican?

Yes, ice fishing is allowed during the winter season, but always check ice conditions beforehand.