The Lakes of the Black Hills

The lakes of the Black Hills of South Dakota are unique. In a region where the prairie is dominant a mountainous lake is a blessing. The water is acquired by rainfall and natural springs throughout the Black Hills. This causes the water to be clear and healthy. Unlike most of the lakes of South Dakota that are lower in the watershed, where by the time the water gets to the lake it has picked up silt and other contaminants. The lakes of the Black Hills have some contamination in the past, but from a different source, Mining. Many of the old time miners used mercury or cyanide to remove the gold or metal from ore. This in turn would make it's way into the watershed. The good news is that today only trace amounts of these chemicals can be found, in only a couple spots in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The majority of the water is clean and spring fed like Spearfish Creek. The picture below is of Roughlock Falls in Spearfish Canyon. This great place is caused by little Spearfish Creek near Savoy, SD

The main fish Species in the lakes and streams in the Black Hills is rainbow trout. However brown trout, lake trout, and bass can be found at select locations. Fly fishing is a fun activity, and is a welcome change to the still fishing in many of the lakes in South Dakota. I recommend checking which species of flies are hatching, then try to match your lure to that insect. Some locations are over fished, and the trout will not bite no matter what you do. Other ways to catch trout include live bait like night crawlers. Some places do not allow the use of live bait.

The majority of lakes in the Black Hills of South Dakota do allow some watercraft. However at most locations only non motored traffic is allowed. The best lakes for boats with motorized boats are Pactola reservoir or Sheridan lake. Here you can do many water sports and boating in general is fun. There are many no wake zones that boaters need to be aware of, and lots of rocky lake bottom. The weather in South Dakota can be unpredictable so we recommend that you check it frequently.

The picture above is of an old gold mine in Pennington County, South Dakota. The mining culture in the Black Hills is rich. Some of our favorite activities is to go gold panning, metal detecting, and snorkeling for gold. Take your flippers, snorkels, and goggles with you on your next trip to the lakes of the Black Hills. The clarity provides a great place to explore under water. Most of the time the water is very cold so be prepared to toughen up. I have actually found gold while snorkeling in Pactola. Just make sure that you are aware of any boats in the area, because they are often used for water sports, and not paying attention to the snorkelers. In conclusion the lakes of the Black Hills are a great place to bring your family and experience. Whether your on vacation or just looking for something to do, get outside and explore. If you have any other questions check with the Black Hills National Forest.