M & W Bait & Tackle Shop
Expert Fishing Advice

Pro Fishing Tips

Learn from decades of South Dakota fishing experience. Our expert tips and local insights will help you land more fish on every trip.

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Essential Fishing Techniques

Master these proven techniques to improve your catch rate on South Dakota waters.

Watch the Water Temperature

Fish are most active when water temps are between 55-75°F. Use a thermometer to find the sweet spot where fish are feeding aggressively.

Time Your Trips Right

Early morning (dawn to 9am) and late evening (6pm to dusk) are prime feeding times. Fish are more active during low-light conditions.

Match the Hatch

Use bait that mimics what fish are naturally eating. Our premium minnows match local forage perfectly for maximum strikes.

Find Structure

Fish love cover! Look for submerged logs, weed beds, rock piles, and drop-offs. These areas provide shelter and attract baitfish.

Fish the Wind

Wind pushes baitfish toward windward shores. Position yourself where the wind is blowing into the bank for better action.

Keep Bait Lively

Healthy, active minnows catch more fish. Use an aerator, keep water cool, and don't overcrowd your bait bucket.

Seasonal Fishing Guide

Each season brings unique opportunities. Here's how to adapt your approach throughout the year in South Dakota.

Spring

March - May
  • Target shallow, warming waters where fish spawn
  • Fathead minnows are prime for walleye pre-spawn
  • Fish slower presentations in cold water
  • Focus on afternoon when water warms up

Summer

June - August
  • Fish deep structure during hot afternoons
  • Early morning and late evening are golden hours
  • Orange minnows stand out in murky summer water
  • Night fishing can be incredibly productive

Fall

September - November
  • Fish feed aggressively before winter - prime time!
  • Shiners are excellent for trophy bass and walleye
  • Target creek mouths and baitfish schools
  • All-day fishing can be productive as temps cool

Winter

December - February
  • Ice fishing season! Target first ice for best action
  • Use small fatheads for finicky winter fish
  • Slow, subtle presentations work best
  • Mid-day often produces best through the ice

Local Fishing Insights

Insider knowledge from the Sioux Falls area. These tips come from years of experience on local waters.

1

Big Sioux River Tactics

Focus on deeper pools and current breaks. After rain, fish the edges where muddy and clear water meet. Catfish love the deeper holes near bridges and dams.

2

Lake Alvin Secrets

Work the weed edges in early morning for bass. The north end tends to produce bigger walleye, especially in spring and fall. Try night crawlers for consistent panfish action.

3

Wall Lake Strategy

Known for excellent walleye fishing. Target the rocky points and drop-offs. Use orange minnows when the water gets stained - the visibility helps fish find your bait.

4

Lake Madison Tips

Great for walleye and perch. Fish the humps and sunken islands. During summer, early morning trolling runs with fatheads can produce limits. Ice fishing is exceptional here!

Pro Tip from the Shop

"Stop by M & W Bait & Tackle before your trip - we always know what's biting and where. Our daily reports come straight from local anglers, so you'll have the freshest intel on the water."

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