White Bass are found statewide in cool to warm water habitats of the Missouri River and its impoundments, larger tributaries, and some glacial lakes. White Bass are a schooling fish that are most often found in pools in rivers and the open mid-water portions of lakes and impoundments. It feeds on fishes, insects and crustaceans. White Bass are laterally compressed with deep bodies, a yellow eye and one tooth patch on the back of the tongue. It is silver-white in color with 5-7 dark, horizontal stripes and two dorsal fins, the first with 9 spines and the second with one spine followed by soft rays. As of Jan 1, 2019 White Bass daily and possession limits have been removed from all inland waters within South Dakota.
License & Regulations
A valid South Dakota fishing license is required for anglers age 16 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-residents, and short-term durations (1-day, 3-day, and annual). Purchase online through the South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks website or at authorized license retailers throughout the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Description
White Bass are found statewide in cool to warm water habitats of the Missouri River and its impoundments, larger tributaries, and some glacial lakes. White Bass are a schooling fish that are most often found in pools in rivers and the open mid-water portions of lakes and impoundments. It feeds on fishes, insects and crustaceans. White Bass are laterally compressed with deep bodies, a yellow eye and one tooth patch on the back of the tongue. It is silver-white in color with 5-7 dark, horizontal stripes and two dorsal fins, the first with 9 spines and the second with one spine followed by soft rays. As of Jan 1, 2019 White Bass daily and possession limits have been removed from all inland waters within South Dakota.
Daily Limit
Statewide: None MN/SD Border waters: No limit IA/SD Border waters: No limit NE/SD Border waters: 15
Possession Limit
None
Proud Angler Qualification
2 3/4 pounds 17 inches (released fish only)
Regulations
Daily limit: Statewide: None; Possession limit: None; Exceptions: MN/SD Border waters: No limit IA/SD Border waters: No limit NE/SD Border waters: 15
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | Fishing | License | License & Fees | A valid South Dakota fishing license is required for anglers age 16 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non | Link |



