Lewis & Clark Lake Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass

Lewis and Clark Lake Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass Regulations (For more information on Missouri River Regulations, see 2013 Fishing Handbook, pages 16-18)

*These regulations apply to waters of the Missouri River from Gavins Point Dam upstream to Fort Randall Dam.

  • Smallmouth/Largemouth Bass (in any combination)-5 fish daily/10 Possession
  • There are no minimum length restrictions for this portion of the river

Largemouth bass are annually sampled by electrofishing backwater areas in the Niobrara Delta. In 2012 number of largemouth per hour of electrofishing was below average; however anglers reported good catch rates of quality sized fish. Traditionally, the best largemouth bass angling on Lewis and Clark Lake has been found in backwater areas of the Niobrara Delta containing aquatic vegetation.

Smallmouth bass are abundant throughout the reservoir from Gavins Point Dam to the Fort Randall tailwaters. Most of the population is young and tends to be on the small side; however, some smallmouth bass near 18 inches are sampled each year.

Sportsmen Assisting Disabled Sportsmen (SANDS)

The SANDS program was created to help men and women and children with disabilities by providing a means for them to meet able-bodied outdoors men and women who volunteer their time and abilities. By lending a helping hand they are able to assist the disabled to get back something they might have lost or never had.

Boating Safety and Regulations

Please follow these rules for a safe and enjoyable time on the water.

Protect our Waters

Aquatic nuisance species threaten threaten our lakes and steams, and can spoil everyone's enjoyment of the water.

Public Fishing Waters

Want to know where to fish, and how to get on the water? Check out this guide.