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 Wessington. Right now in February, activity is Poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Spotted Bass
While South Dakota isn't exactly known as a spotted bass mecca, anglers around Wessington can find some surprisingly good action in the James River and a few of the smaller, less-pressured lakes and reservoirs in the area. These fish aren't going to be giants, but they can offer a fun change of pace. The best time to target them is during the late spring and early summer, when they move shallow to spawn. Look for rocky points, submerged timber, and areas with current. A key tip for success here is downsizing your presentation; these fish often respond better to smaller jigs, crankbaits, and finesse worms than the larger offerings you might use for largemouth. Access to the James River can be tricky in spots, so be sure to scout access points beforehand. Also, be aware that water levels can fluctuate dramatically, especially during the spring runoff.
How to Catch Spotted Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Spotted Bass in Wessington.
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 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.
Do I need a license to fish for Spotted Bass near Wessington, SD?
Yes, you will need a valid South Dakota fishing license to fish for Spotted Bass.
Are there any size restrictions for Spotted Bass I catch?
No, there is no minimum size limit for Spotted Bass in South Dakota, so you can keep any size you catch (within the bag limit).
What are some good lures for catching Spotted Bass around Wessington?
Small crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and plastic worms are effective for catching Spotted Bass. Focus on areas with submerged structure or vegetation.
More Spotted Bass Fishing in South Dakota
Other Species to Fish in Wessington
Ready to Catch Spotted Bass in Wessington?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.


