Mountain Whitefish
Mountain Whitefish are a native salmonid species that historically occurred in South Dakota but are now considered vulnerable within the state, with populations listed as imperiled in Colorado and presumed extirpated in Nebraska.
Scientific Name: Prosopium williamsoni
- These silvery fish are distinguished by their prominent snout, small down-turned mouth, large adipose fin, and deeply forked tail.
- They typically range 9-12 inches and weigh 6-11 ounces, though can reach up to 24 inches and over 5 pounds.
Fishing in South Dakota
James River
Richmond Lake
Lake Parmley
Willow Creek Lake
Elm River
North Scatterwood Lake
Elm Lake
Amsden Lake
Columbia Road Reservoir
South Scatterwood Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Cold streams.
Specific Spots
- They occupy deep pools (36-48 inches) and areas with gravel to cobble substrate.
- Target deep pools, areas with gravel to cobble substrate, and locations where you spot schools of fish - where you catch one, expect more nearby as they school together.
Mountain Whitefish FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What flies work for Mountain Whitefish in South Dakota?
Prince Nymphs (the most effective pattern), Pheasant Tail Nymphs, Copper Johns, small beadhead caddis, midge patterns, and stonefly nymphs in sizes 14-22. When they surface feed, match the hatch with appropriate dry fly patterns for mayflies, caddisflies, and terrestrial insects.
When is the best time to fish for Mountain Whitefish in South Dakota?
Target during winter months when they're most active, particularly from December through March when water temperatures are coldest. Avoid fishing during their spawning period from late October through December.
How do you catch Mountain Whitefish in South Dakota?
The most effective technique is nymphing with small beadhead patterns fished close to the bottom. Use Euro nymphing techniques or indicator rigs with enough weight to get flies to the bottom quickly. Since whitefish feed primarily on the substrate, your presentation must reach their feeding zone.
What do Mountain Whitefish eat?
Mountain Whitefish are demersal feeders, using their pointed snouts and pectoral fins to stir up substrate and feed primarily on aquatic invertebrate larvae including mayfly nymphs, stonefly nymphs, caddisfly larvae, midges, and chironomids.
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