fishing in Dakotas

I would like to plan a trip to the Dakotas this summer. We
go with grampa and grandma, two kids and my wife and I.
Would like to catch walleyes for me, panfish for inlaws and
kids. I was wondering if Oahe was too rough when it gets
windy. I have a 18' proV, but don't want to scare them
because of rough water. If you know of any smaller lakes
that you think would be better for the family to catch fish
I would be greatful.

In the dakotas, its hard to find a good panfish lake, but here's a couple I know of. Lake Thompson, west of brookings, has tons of walleyes I've caught in excess of hundreds before in a day, little 10-14 inches but they are fun. There are big smallmouth and northerns. If you do get onto the crappies and perch, both get very large in that lake. Another possibility is waubay chain. Enemy swim has got some gigantic sunnies and walleyes are in abundance in this chain. Lots of northerns in the chain also. If its windy you could hit a smaller lake, you don't have to go to the river to catch fish.

[eyewinder]

Even if the weather is good, the sheer size of Oahe may intimidate the first-time visitor. That being said, my last trip (a couple years ago) produced lots of walleyes and a ton of nice-sized white bass (we'd occasionally stop and throw crankbaits at the school if we caught one fishing for walleye).
As I understand it, now there are even more walleye, and I'm sure the lake still has huge schools of white bass for the older & younger generations. And you should be able to find fish by fishing the edges of the boat packs (if it's your first visit and you don't mind some company).
Also, you'll find more lakeside family-type accomodations on Oahe. Don't get me wrong, I love Thompson & Waubay, too. If your family enjoys battling toothy critters (pike), each of those lakes has lots of them from three to 10 pounds.

[ifishsd]

here are some web sites to check out for fishing reports in South Dakota.
http://www.tonydean.com
http://www.ktwb.com/fishing.php3
http://glpta.org

Northeast South Dakota is loaded with perch. I think the Kids, Grandpa and Grandma would enjoy Oahe. 14 Walleyes a day is the limit. Also a Season license for Oahe is only 20 dollars. You will spend 20 dollars on a three day license for the rest of the state. The Nothern part of Oahe up by Molbridge isn't as wide as the lower end by Pierre. It can get very rough at times.

You might try Angostaura reservoir south of Hot Springs. Much smaller lake with nice crappie and walleye. Really nice campground with showers. They also have small cabins for rent. If the water gets rough there are a lot of things to keep everyone entertained nearby. Camping/Cabins may be reserved starting 90 days previous to arrival off SD game and fish site. Check it out, you'll like what you find. Good fishing!
Heye5

[jeff]

partly depends when this summer your heading out. june / early july wind can be an issue on oahe. duing that period I would look at the n.e. natural lakes...waubay with 'eyes, pike, perch and huge crappie provided many different opportunities for all. other lakes in the area....with resorts on the water would be enemy swim, roy and clear......these also have some great smallmouth fishing. but on the water lodging is in short supply. late july and august the natural lake bite can slow a bit but with all the panfish possibilities you should still be pleased. oahe in that period isn't as windy and the 'eyes and white bass bite holds up well.....just alot more water to cover but ask around.... locals can put you on fish if you ask. can get ##### hot though..with no wind.

TRY BEAVER BAY, SOUTH OF BISMARCK