Fishing Shadehill Reservoir
AKA: Shadehill Lake
Popular Fish Species Shadehill Reservoir, SD
Walleye Fishing
Shadehill Reservoir is home to a hearty population of walleye. Good fisheries management by South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Department and plenty of forage in the lake have them growing fat and healthy. Walleye have excellent vision in low light scenarios which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water anytime there are low light conditions. During May and June is the optimal time to catch them, while feeding in shallower water. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. Concentrate around structure like points, flats and ledges off the river channels. One of the proven methods for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing
Smallmouth bass are the most sought-after species at Shadehill Reservoir, with fish over 3 pounds very common. Smallmouth bass fishing is particularly good when they move to shallow water. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around any sort of rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. Other times, focus your time on deeper structure with drop-shot rigs, small worms, jigs and spoons. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish.
White Bass Fishing
White bass are aggressive, hard-fighting and just plain fun to catch. Numerous successful spawn years have increased the population of white bass in Shadehill Reservoir, and anglers can expect some great fishing this year. When fishing for white bass, the average fish is typically in the one- to two-pound range. These schooling fish tend to roam around the lake looking for ideal water conditions and baitfish. Look for them to generally be in 15 to 35 feet of water, whether they are hovering around the bottom or swimming in open water. Fish finders are the best way to locate big schools of white bass. Fish near the bottom at night with live bait. In spring, once the water temperature rises into the mid sixties, they move shallow into the backs of coves and creek channels to spawn. When white bass chase schools of bait near the surface, spinners, spoons and small crank baits work well. At this time anglers can fish from shore and often do quite well. Use lures that imitate baitfish, including small crankbaits, small jerkbaits, jigs and spoons.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for smallmouth bass, channel catfish, walleye, bluegill, yellow perch and northern pike at Shadehill Reservoir in South Dakota.
Shadehill Reservoir Fishing Video
Walleye, pike and bass generate most of the excitement for fishing enthusiasts at Shadehill Reservoir. a 5,100-acre lake, at Summerville. But don't overlook the yellow perch, bluegill and catfish.
Shadehill Reservoir is a scenic lake located in northwestern South Dakota, near the town of Lemmon. This man-made reservoir is a popular destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts due to its diverse fish population and recreational opportunities.
One of the primary draws for fishing at Shadehill Reservoir is walleye. This prized species is abundant in the lake, offering anglers a chance to catch some impressive-sized fish. Spring and fall are particularly productive times to target walleye in the shallower areas of the reservoir.
Smallmouth bass is another popular species that attracts anglers to Shadehill Reservoir. These feisty fighters are highly sought after for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic leaps when hooked. The rocky shorelines and underwater structures provide ideal habitats for smallmouth bass.
Northern pike is yet another species that exists in Shadehill Reservoir. These voracious predators can reach impressive sizes and provide a thrilling challenge for anglers seeking some excitement on the water.
Yellow perch, known for their tasty fillets, are also present in good numbers. Anglers targeting perch will find success near the lake's underwater structures, where these schooling fish often congregate.
Channel catfish round out the list of popular fish species at Shadehill Reservoir. Anglers can find success targeting these bottom-dwelling fish using a variety of baits and techniques, especially during the warmer months.
Boating access is offered at two locations, the boat landing at Shadehill State Recreation Area and the boat launch ramp at Hugh Glass State Lakeside Use Area. The lake is fed by both the North Fork and South Fork of the Grand River and has over sixty miles of shoreline. Anglers wishing to fish from the bank will have a multitude of options, including at the campgrounds as well as many places around the lake where roads offer access.
Primary fish species residing in Shadehill Reservoir
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Shadehill Reservoir Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: NEARBY
Today's Weather & Forecast
In addition to its excellent fishing opportunities, Shadehill Reservoir offers boating opportunities. Boaters can explore the lake's 5,700 acres of water surface and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and bluffs.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Hugh Glass State Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Hugh Glass Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.
Shadehill State Recreation Area Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off N Cabin Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.
Fishing Guides On Shadehill Reservoir
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a South Dakota Fishing License.
Camping facilities along the reservoir's shores provide a peaceful and serene retreat, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Shadehill State Recreation Area Campground - 605 374-5114
Shadehill Grove RV Park & Bait Shop - 605 374-4146
Shadehill Reservoir SD Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Shadehill Reservoir
Shadehill State Recreation Area
19150 Summerville Rd
Shadehill, SD 57638
605 374-5114
Fishing lakes in each state.
090724
Shadehill Reservoir in SD
SOUTH DAKOTA
Fishing for walleye, pike and bass in northwest SD.
