Fishing Charters in South Dakota
Browse fishing charters in South Dakota that can help you catch spotted bass.
Dakota Prairie Angling
Watertown, South Dakota
Dakota Prairie Angling is a walleye guide service near Whitlocks Bay on beautiful Lake Oahe. Dakota Prairie Angling also provides ice fishing on northeastern South Dakota glacial lakes.
Central Dakota Guide Service
Central Dakota Guide Service provides you amazing guides for your hunting and fishing adventures.
Curtis Lagan Guiding
If you’re looking for a variety of fishing, look no further! Nestled in one of the greatest fishing spots in the country is Lake Oahe, a dammed area of the Missouri River.
Dave Spaid Hunting And Fishing Guide Service
Dave Spaid Guiding offers premier South Dakota fishing and hunting outfitter services. South Dakota Walleye Fishing and Pheasant Hunts at it's finest!
Brad Beeler Fishing
Brad Beeler Fishing Guide. Lake Oahe::Lake Sharpe::Missouri River::Pierre, SD
Fish Hunter Guide Service
Nebraska John Guide Service
Walleye Fishing Guide in Pierre Walleye fishing, Pierre, SD Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe
Buffalo Butte Ranch
South Dakota Access Guide Service
Prime South Dakota Pheasant hunting in South Dakota! Also offering Walleye & Pike Fishing! Excellent accommodations, food, and dogs with decades of experience.
Finn Provisions Fly Shop
Tail Finn offers fly fishing services for The Black Hills of South Dakota. Anglers of all abilities, no matter gender, or age are welcome to fish with us. Our seasoned group of guides want you to have fun, catch fish, and hopefully learn a thing or two about the sport we so dearly love.
Dakota Prairie Guide Service
South Dakota fishing guide and Pheasant hunting outfitter service for the Chamberlain and Oacoma, SD area, including the Missouri River, Lake Francis Case and Lake Sharpe.
Cleland Guide Service
Official website for Cleland Guide Service. A family owned business located in central South Dakota. Your fishing and hunting vacation awaits. Book early for be
Best Time to Catch Spotted Bass
Spotted Bass can be caught year-round in Hartford. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Spotted Bass
While spotted bass aren't as common as largemouth or smallmouth in South Dakota, you can find them in the Hartford area. Your best bet is to explore the Skunk Creek, a tributary of the Big Sioux River. Spotted bass prefer clear, flowing water with plenty of structure like rocky bottoms, submerged logs, and overhanging vegetation. Focus your efforts during the warmer months, particularly spring and early summer when they're actively spawning. A practical tip for fishing Skunk Creek is to use smaller lures and lighter tackle. Spotted bass typically aren't as aggressive as largemouth, so finesse presentations often work best. Consider using small crankbaits, spinnerbaits, or soft plastics rigged on a drop shot or Texas rig. Accessing Skunk Creek can involve some walking and wading, so be prepared for that. The spotted bass in this region are generally smaller than those found further south, but they can still provide a fun and challenging fishing experience.
How to Catch Spotted Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Spotted Bass in Hartford.
Spotted Bass Fishing Regulations in South Dakota
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Fishing License
Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass count as one in the daily limit of 5.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the South Dakota state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in South Dakota
Frequently Asked Questions
What's a good lure for catching spotted bass around Hartford, SD?
Spotted bass are aggressive and will hit a variety of lures. Try crankbaits, spinnerbaits, or plastic worms rigged Texas-style. Experiment with different colors and retrieves to see what works best on a given day.
What's the daily bag limit for spotted bass in South Dakota?
The daily bag limit for spotted bass in South Dakota is 5 fish per day.
Is there a minimum size I need to worry about when keeping spotted bass in SD?
No, there is currently no minimum size limit for spotted bass in South Dakota, so any size can be kept.
Do I need a specific license to fish for spotted bass near Hartford?
Yes, you'll need a valid Fishing License to legally fish for spotted bass in South Dakota.
More Spotted Bass Fishing in South Dakota
Other Species to Fish in Hartford
Ready to Catch Spotted Bass in Hartford?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.