Lewis and Clark Lake 2010 Fishing Forecast

Annual fisheries surveys take place on Lewis and Clark Lake to monitor trends in fish populations.  Electrofishing, gill netting, hoop netting, and seining are used to collect information that helps biologists monitor trends in populations of fish species.  Angler surveys are conducted during some years to gather information on angler use and harvest.  These long-term trends in fish population status and angler use are used by biologists to make management decisions and determine regulations. 

With the information gathered from these surveys, predictions can be made about fishing on Lewis and Clark Lake in 2010.

Key Issues in 2010 for Lewis and Clark Lake

• Sedimentation is the most influential process occurring on Lewis and Clark Lake.  Large amounts of sediment are deposited by the Niobrara River which contributes to the growing delta area near Springfield, SD.  As the physical characteristics of Lewis and Clark Lake change over time, anglers will need to adjust their fishing strategies.
• Annual netting surveys indicate a trend in increasing walleye abundance.  Thanks in part to a strong 2008 year-class, there should be a large number of walleye available to anglers in the 15 to 22 inch range during 2010.
• The Lewis and Clark Lake sauger population continues to boast an excellent size structure, with one third of the sauger sampled during fall gill netting in 2009 above 15 inches in length.  Fish from a large 2008 year-class will soon be reaching harvestable size, and anglers should once again find a large percentage of the sauger population over 15 inches in 2010. 
• Channel catfish numbers were down slightly in 2009, but remain near the 5-year average.  Size structure was improved and fish were in excellent condition.  Great angling opportunities for catfish should be available in 2010.
• Angling success is affected by gizzard shad production.  During years with good numbers of gizzard shad throughout the summer/fall seasons, angling success can decline due to the amount of food present.