South Dakota has three main types of water bodies.
Prairie glacial or man made reservoirs.
These lakes are scattered across both Eastern and Western South Dakota. The majority of glacial lakes reside in the north eastern part of the state. Day and Roberts counties host some of the highest densities of glacial lakes. South Dakota residents also store their water in man made reservoirs or dams.This water is used for civil and agricultural use. Lucky for us stocked with game fish like large mouth bass and walleye. The prairie wildlife has come to love these water holes. A large portion of the natural wetlands have been destroyed or damaged.Rivers and streams.
There are many rivers and streams meandering the state of South Dakota.The most notable is the Missouri River. Starting for the rocky mountains in Montana. The Missouri river flows all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. With four distinct reservoirs within South Dakota's boundaries. This large body of water hosts more species of fish including lake trout and salmon. Other rivers in South Dakota include the James and Sioux. Rivers are the life blood to eastern South Dakota.Mountain Lakes and Streams.
The Black Hills of South Dakota are located in the extreme south western portion of the state. The lakes are primarily created by precipitation. The water flows from the higher elevations through streams like rapid creek and spearfish creek. Several reservoirs were created to hold water for human use. Because of the source of water the lakes and streams are generally clearer then the rest of the lakes in South Dakota. Pactola reservoir located in the central Black Hills a great example. The water bodies in the Black Hills are stocked primarily with trout.
