Fishing Regulations

New - Bullheads as bait

Bullheads may be used as bait statewide. They are still considered a game fish and may only be taken by legal hook and line methods from waters open to angling. Bullheads may not be sold. Anglers are reminded that to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS), bait and fish may not be transported in water from a lake, river or stream.

Additional regulations and rules on fishing tournaments, special events, hoop net and setlines, bait dealer information, private fish hatcheries and fish importation can be found here.

• Administrative Rules of South Dakota - the official source for rules established by GFP Commission in regards to fishing seasons and methods.
• Codified Laws of South Dakota - the official source for laws established by state legislature.
• Effective May 2015: New Aquatic Invasive Species Rules and Regulations

The handbook fishing regulations are also available in our free smartphone app; available for iOS and Android devices.