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Lake Oahe

Boat Ramps
87
Access Points
155
Species
23

Lake Oahe is a massive reservoir spanning from central South Dakota into North Dakota, created by the Oahe Dam on the Missouri River. Covering approximately 370,000 acres with over 2,250 miles of shoreline, it ranks as the fourth largest reservoir in North America with a maximum depth of 205 feet. Known for its pristine waters, stunning landscape, and exceptional fishing opportunities, Lake Oahe has become a premier destination for anglers seeking trophy-sized fish in a tranquil setting. The reservoir provides diverse aquatic habitats that support numerous game fish species, making it one of the most productive fisheries in the Midwest.

Fish stocking schedule

Latest 5 stockings

  • Chinook Salmon13,300 fish · JuvenilesOct 30, 2025
  • Chinook Salmon14,317 fish · JuvenilesOct 30, 2025
  • Chinook Salmon15,151 fish · JuvenilesOct 29, 2025
  • Walleye136,892 fish · JuvenilesJun 10, 2025
  • Walleye296,868 fish · JuvenilesJun 9, 2025

Source

South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks

Updated Nov 13, 2026. Dates are as precise as the agency reports them.

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Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Lake Oahe. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

WW Salmon Station Access

WW Salmon Station Access

Access Point
Thomas Bay Access

Thomas Bay Access

Access Point
Whitlock Bay Access

Whitlock Bay Access

Access Point
West Whitlock Access

West Whitlock Access

Access Point
West Shore Access

West Shore Access

Access Point
Okobojo Point Access

Okobojo Point Access

Access Point
Beaver Creek Public Use Area (Main) Access

Beaver Creek Public Use Area (Main) Access

Access Point
East Whitlock Access

East Whitlock Access

Access Point
Bush's Landing Access

Bush's Landing Access

Access Point
Spring Creek Courtesy Dock Access

Spring Creek Courtesy Dock Access

Access Point

Know where you can legally fish on Lake Oahe

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

North Dakota licenses and regulations

North Dakota Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

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North Dakota Fishing License

Residents and Nonresidents under 16 years old and older are not required to have a fishing license

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North Dakota Fishing Regulations

This state has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this state is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

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North Dakota Stream Access Laws

Any person, before commencing any construction for the purpose of appropriating waters of the state or before taking waters of the state from any constructed works, shall first secure a water permit from the state engineer unless such construction or taking from such constructed works is for domestic or livestock purposes or for fish, wildlife, and other recreational uses.

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Take Lake Oahe with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

  • Use the map without signal

    Download the map around Lake Oahe to use it offline when coverage drops.

  • Log your catches here

    Keep a private fishing journal for Lake Oahe to find where and when fish are biting for you.

  • HD depth charts from Garmin

    Find drop offs, ledges, channels, points and shallow flats with Garmin depth charts in the app.

Get the onWater Fish app

Free on iOS and Android

Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish Lake Oahe and check the forecast before you go.

MISSOURI RIVER NEAR SCHMIDT, ND

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