Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units Program: South Dakota
Education, Research and Technical Assistance for Managing Our Natural Resources

Small impoundments (<150 acres) provide important angling opportunities in South Dakota. Although they represent a small amount of total surface water in the state, small impoundments receive relatively high angling pressure for species including bluegill, largemouth bass, and crappies. Management of these fishes, however, can be hindered by poor water quality and reduced habitat availability. Nutrient loading to the lake causes seasonal hypoxia that further alters prey composition and limits sportfish growth and abundance. The objective of this study is to evaluate reservoir renovation efforts designed to improve water quality and habitat conditions for sportfish.